804-598-5352 ~ www.herbalconsultant.com
Whole-istic Health Massage & Aromatherapy joins Apothecarian Herbals, LLC to invite you to our
Saturday,
March 12
Refreshments ~ Door Prizes ~ Aromatherapy Demo at 2:00pm
3430-D Anderson Hwy, Powhatan
(Powhatan Plaza Shopping Center, corner of Academy Rd. & Rt. 60)
FORGETFUL? HERE'S
SOME HELP
Getting older, being under stress, having circulatory problems and certain illnesses or taking particular medications can all have an effect on our ability to remember things. This can be very frustrating! Even putting sticky notes everywhere doesn't seem to help. We can enhance our ability to remember through various ways, including using specific herbs and supplements. Our brain is a muscle that needs exercising just like the rest of our body does. By reading, doing crossword puzzles or taking classes, we're providing mental stimulation that actually "exercises" our brains. Many studies have shown that challenging our mental abilities keeps our brains functioning well. Following are some herbs and supplements that have been shown to increase mental capacity and focus:
1. Ginkgo biloba - This is the most well-known of the "memory" herbs. It works by increasing circulation throughout the body, particularly in the brain. It takes about 6 - 8 weeks to work and is approved in Germany by the Commission E, their equivalent of the FDA, to treat memory deficits, disturbances in concentration, depressive emotional condition, dizziness, tinnitus, and headache. Ginkgo should not be used if taking blood thinners.
2. Eleuthero (Siberian ginseng) - Eleuthero is indicated when the memory problems are due to fatigue. It improves capacity for concentration and acts as an energizer. Do not use this if you have high blood pressure.
3. Phosphatidylserine, or PS for short, is a major component of cell membranes. This membrane moves nutrients into cells and pumps waste products out of them. Good evidence suggests that PS can help declining mental function and depression in the elderly, and it is widely used for this purpose in Italy, Scandinavia, and other parts of Europe. PS has also been marketed as a "brain booster" for people of all ages. It is said to sharpen memory and increase thinking ability.
4. Bacopa is an Ayurvedic herb used in India for memory enhancement and to treat epilepsy. Recent human studies showed it has the ability to improve memory and mood.
5. Gotu kola is native to Asia and Europe. It improves brain circulation, as well as mental performance and retention.
6. Hawthorn has strong antioxidants. It cleans out brain toxins and strengthens blood vessels and tissues. Hawthorn facilitates oxygen and nutrient transport to the brain and is also good for heart health and circulation.
7. Sage is one of the most common herbs used to enhance memory. Researchers found that those given sage oil tablets performed much better in a "word recall test" than those given a dummy pill.
8. Omega 3 essential fatty acids from fish oils are also critical for brain health. They stimulate the brain and increase memory and mental awareness.
As you can see, we don't have to continue to forget where we put our sticky notes. Exercising our brains and adding supplements can enhance memory and often delay or prevent age-related memory loss - but only if you can remember to take them!!
MEMORY-BOOSTING TIPS FROM WHOLE-ISTIC HEALTH
Often, poor memory or concentration is due to lack of blood flow to the brain. One of the best ways to improve circulation throughout the entire body is to receive regular massage therapy. Not only will mental clarity become sharper, but the rest of the body's organs will benefit from the extra nutrients and oxygen.
There are readily available essential oils that help improve memory as well. If poor memory stems from lack of focus, Sage is excellent at helping to clarify the mind. If anxiety is contributing to the inability to remember daily appointments, Lavender will help sharpen your memory by reducing the anxiety. ~ ShawnMarie Kerley, CMT ~ www.wholeistichealth.com
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