Aging Is inevitable. It seems that we are all looking for that magical pill that goes back. Although nothing can replace a healthy diet, regular exercise and stress management (and good genes!), Herbal support can offer tonic support for many common complaints related to aging.
In one 2014 pollTwo -thirds of people over 50 reported to be anxious for cognitive issues. Memory loss and difficulty with language and problem solving can have an in -depth effect, not only on the quality of life of the individual, but also on the family. It is understandable that we are all concerned with maintaining brain function!
Our brains require more energy than any other organ in the body. The majority of that energy is used to help indicate nerve cells or to communicate with each other, while the remaining energy is used to maintain the health of the brain cell. We need food from food to meet those energy needs and supporting detoxification to remove waste from the cell. Herbs have long been used to nourish the brain, to stimulate mental functions and to support other body processes that can influence brain function, such as liver degence, circulation and our stress response. After all, herbs are food!
As a nutrition professional, I find it frustrating that so many natural supplements have been promoted for the support they offer with brain function and energy that really only serves as a temporary stimulant. Many of these products contain an overwhelming amount of caffeine, B vitamins or a disproportionate amount of one or two amino acids. Caffeine in particular can be difficult for some people to process (including myself) and destroys the adrenal glands that produce our stress hormones. Chronically raised levels of cortisol, our long -term stress hormone, has been shown to reduce different areas of the brain, such as the Hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. These are areas of the brain needed for problem solving.
Just like Whole Foods, whole herbs contain the vital nutrients that our body needs to support a wide range of body functions, including brain function. Below are a few that you might want to add to your diet.
Gotu Kola
Also known as Centella Asiatica, Gotu Kola is part of the APiaceae Family together with carrots and parsley. In China it is called ‘the fountain of life’. The nutrient-tight leaves are often consumed as a salad green in Asian countries where the plant is known for its calming effect. In Sri Lanka, the locals will eat several leaves of the Gotu Kola plant every day, reflect elephants that consume the leaves and are known for their long life and great memory (An elephant never forgets!). Gotu Kola is used in both traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda because of its positive effects on memory and focus, while alertness is promoted.
Ginkgo
The oldest living plant species on earth, Gingko is known as “The Bearer of Hope” in his native China because of his resilience. In fact, six Ginkgo -trees survived the bombing in Hiroshima at the end of the Second World War. Ginkgo promotes healthy circulation, which is why it is used so often in brain supplements – it supports the circulation of nutrients to the brain. Studies show that Ginkgo also has neuroprotective properties.
Eleuthero
Eleuthero, also known as Siberian Ginseng, is an adaptogen, which means that it supports the body’s reaction to stress by helping it to adjust To the stress level. While Eleuthero is native to China, it became popular when Russian researchers started studying the factory in the 1960s. Eleuthero would stimulate in TCM qi (chi or energy). It is often used to improve endurance and endurance.
A cousin to Calendula and known as a common weed, dandelion is often used as food, tonic and in herb wines and beer. It supports a healthy functioning of the kidneys, liver, gallbladder and spleen. In TCM, supporting these detoxification channels and the clear mind of keeping it clear.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a large scale popular and has been obtained for thousands of years as a herb from the bark of the different types of Cintake tree. It is warming up, uplifting and supports a healthy circulation. Moreover, Cinnamon promotes overall health and supports healthy blood sugar levels. Unbalanced blood sugar can contribute to foggy thinking and stimulate the secretion of cortisol. Cinnamon stimulates the healthy production of neurotropic factors that stimulate the birth of new neurons (brain cells).
Spiky axis
Related to Szechuan Pepper, this North -American tree supports a healthy circulation. The spiky axis also helps to support healthy energy and endurance. Both the berries and the bark can be used, but the bark is used more often in liquid extracts.
Writer Danielle Cicak is the sales representative of Noord -Colorado and Wyoming and regional educator for Wishgarden Herbs in Louisville, Colorado. In 2003, Danielle started working her career in the supplement gangs with Natural Grocers. Inspired to help others with their health and well -being, she followed a training in holistic diet of the Nutrition Therapy Institute in Denver, Colorado. As a Master Nutrition Therapist (MNT), Danielle served as a food health coach (NHC) before he improved to become the NHC development specialist where it led and developed the NHC training program for natural grocers. As a resident of Colorado, Danielle is delighted to work with another local, family business that promotes health and activism through education: Wishgarden Herbs! In her spare time she likes to spend time with family and friends, creating healthy dishes in her kitchen and enjoying the beauty that Colorado has to offer!
Only for educational purposes. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent a disease or to sell a product.
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