CognitiviTEA

Green tea (Camellia sinensis):

Scientists have discovered that green tea boosts your brain power. Studies have revealed that green tea can positively influence cognition and brain function. (1)

Green tea has been found to improve working memory and sustained attention and induces mental clarity. Green teas beneficial effects on cognition are due to a combination of L-theanine and caffeine. (2)

L-theanine has a calming effect which seems to mitigate the negative aspects of caffeine, such as anxiety and difficulty sleeping, while enhancing it’s positive effect of improving attention.

Gingko biloba (Salisburia adiantifolia):

Ginkgo has long been used in China as a traditional medicine for various health disorders including poor memory and concentration. Ginkgo is well known for its ability to improve focus and memory and for enhancing mental performance.

Ginkgos brain-boosting benefits are due to its ability to increase circulation to the brain and improve the health of blood vessels. (1)

Ginkgo also increases glucose uptake into brain cells and boosts nerve signal transmission which is responsible for memory, mood and task completion. Gingko is also an effective anti-inflammatory and boosts antioxidant activity which helps decrease oxidative stress. These are important factors for maintaining cognitive health.

Research shows that ginkgo can help protect against cognitive decline, particularly in people with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. (2)

Turmeric (Curcuma longa):

A recent study has found that curcumin, the active compound found in turmeric, can help protect the brain.(1)

Curcumin has potent antioxidant properties that help protect brain cells from free radical damage. Curcumin also has strong anti-inflammatory properties that protect the brain from neurodegeneration. Curcumin helps to decrease amyloid and tau accumulation in brain regions associated with memory and mood. (2)

Researchers have found a link between improved cognitive performance and the consumption of turmeric. A study indicated a lower prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease in Indian people who consumed curcumin in curry on a regular basis, and better cognitive performance in older adults. This provides further evidence that curcumin consumption can provide neuroprotective benefits. (3, 4)

Brahmi (Bacopa monniera):

Bacopa has a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine as a nervous system tonic and for the treatment of a number of disorders, including anxiety and poor memory. In Indian bacopa is commonly known as ‘Brahmi’ after Brahma, the creator god of the Hindu pantheon.

Bacopa has the ability to invigorate mental processes, while making you feel calm. Bacopa is a potent adaptogen and a natural stress reliever. Bacopa helps the body adapt to daily stress in a better way. (1)

Animal research has shown bacopa to have positive effects on the brain, including reduction of depression and anxiety, and enhancement of the effects of neurotransmitters acetylcholine and serotonin and GABA. (2)

The bacosides in bacopa are said to enhance cognitive function by improving the transmission of nerve impulses. Studies have found that bacopa can improve higher cognitive processes critical for learning and memory. (3)

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citrates):

Lemongrass has a calming effect on the brain and it can help relieve stress.

Peppermint (Mentha Pipperita):

Peppermint has been found to help enhance memory and increase altertness. (1, 2)

The antioxidant limonene found in peppermint can help reduce free radical damage and increase neurotransmitter activity, which may improve concentration, focus and memory. The menthol in peppermint has a calming anti-depressant effect, which helps to sooth and relax the body.

In a release from the British Psychological Society’s Annual Conference in Nottingham, UK researchers have found that peppermint tea can immediately increase short- and long-term memory.

In the study 180 healthy people were randomly selected to drink peppermint tea, chamomile tea or hot water. Before they commenced they were given a questionnaire. Twently minutes after drinking the tea or other beverages they were given another questionnaire measuring their short and long term memories and other cognitive functions.

The researchers found that the peppermint tea greatly improved their long term memory and also enhanced their working memory and alertness compared to the chamomile and hot water drinks. (3)

(3) British Psychological Society. Peppermint tea can improve your memory. Public Eureka Alert. Release: 28-APR-2016.