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9 Best Herbs And Spices For Brain Health

By Neha Ghosh

In cooking, we often use herbs and spices to enhance the flavour of the food. But, apart from adding flavour these herbs and spices have a myriad of health benefits too, one of which is improving the brain function.

Since ages, herbs and spices have been consumed and used in different ways to treat health-related issues such as lowering blood sugar level, reducing nausea, fighting infections and boosting immunity.

 Best Herbs And Spices For Brain Health

From boosting brain's stem cells production to protecting the brain cells from damage, these herbs and spices can improve the health of your brain. Have a look at the best herbs and spices that are good for your brain.

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1. Sage

1. Sage

According to a 2003 study published in Pharmacology, Biochemistry and Behaviour, sage possesses memory-enhancing properties.

Another research published in Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that sage is beneficial to Alzheimer's patients. Sage contains carnosic acid, which prevents the damage of the brain cells caused by free radicals. It stimulates the production of the powerful antioxidant glutathione, which helps treat brain problems like autism, Alzheimer's, and more.

Try adding sage in roasted chicken, tomato sauce, soup and you can also consume sage in the form of tea.

2. Turmeric

2. Turmeric

Turmeric contains curcumin which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and research says it is beneficial for boosting brain health and keeps Alzheimer's disease at bay by clearing the brain of beta-amyloid, a protein fragment that forms in the brain.
Try adding turmeric in your curries and soups.

3. Ashwagandha

3. Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is another Ayurvedic herb that is known to boost brain health and prevent Alzheimer's disease. It inhibits the formation of beta-amyloid plaques and reduces oxidative stress which contributes to the development of Alzheimer's.

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4. Lemon balm

4. Lemon balm

A 2003 study published in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry showed that patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease who took lemon balm extract for four months showed a significant improvement in cognitive function. Lemon balm has multiple antioxidants that are known to boost brain health.

5. Rosemary

5. Rosemary

Rosemary contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds that can help fight free radicals damage in the brain cells. It contains carnosic acid, a powerful phytochemical that protects the brain from neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's disease.

6. Thyme

6. Thyme

Thyme is a terrific spice when it comes to supporting brain health. The beneficial oils present in thyme help to increase the omega 3 fatty acids, especially DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) which protects the brain from dementia and Alzheimer's disease.

7. Cinnamon

7. Cinnamon

Cinnamon contains two compounds called cinnamaldehyde and epicatechin, that prevents the effects of tau protein which researchers believe can be the cause of Alzheimer's. Tau protein forms clumps in the brain and the compounds in cinnamon have been shown to prevent the formation of these clumps.

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8. Ginkgo biloba

8. Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba is used as a treatment for dementia and helps to improve cognitive function by stimulating blood circulation and promoting blood flow to the brain.

A 2015 research published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease shows that ginkgo biloba extract called EGb761 can be helpful in slowing the decline of cognition among patients experiencing neuropsychiatry symptoms.

9. Chamomile

9. Chamomile

According to some medical experts, chamomile contains luteolin, which is a substance that has been found to reduce inflammatory reactions in the brain. This lowers the risk of Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.

Note: If you're suffering from a health issue, then we highly recommend you to consult your doctor before including any of the herbs or spices in your diet.

Read more about: herbs spices brain wellness