In a society ruled by high stress and demands, effective brain herbs are taking on a whole new level of importance.
The idea of using herbs to boost mental alertness is hardly new. But some studies are uncovering interesting ways that brain herbs boost IQ.
Many natural doctors and alternative healers suggest there are supplements that can provide a healthy, natural and effective alternative when someone requires a little mental tune-up.
The good news is, many of these supplements can provide a lot of benefits. But it’s important to remember that there can be side effects.
A word to the wise: do yourself a favor, and do your homework before you decide to add any alternative supplement to your routine.
IQ Boosting Options
Can brain herbs boost IQ? It’s time to find out. Among the more popular alternatives touted for their brain-boosting power are the following:
Gotu Kola – This ancient herb, popular in Ayurvedic medicine, is said to be excellent brain food, helping both improve memory and lessen the symptoms of senility. A study of the herb with mentally retarded children showed it helped improve concentration and attention. Gotu Kola is rich in B-complex vitamins, which may explain some of its effectiveness.
Ginkgo Biloba – Another ancient Chinese herb, Ginkgo Biloba has received mixed reviews for its abilities among effective brain herbs. Ginkgo has been shown to increase blood and oxygen flow to the brain, which can help improve mental function, promoting alertness and short-term memory. It is also thought to stimulate brain receptors that release a neurotransmitter (acetylcholine) that is thought to be associated with intelligence.
In terms of its role as a brain herb, Ginkgo Biloba has been shown to help reduce the loss in brain function that can occur after a stroke.
Ginkgo Biloba is widely used in Europe, and has become more popular in North America. A study in the Journal of the American Medical Association in 1997 stated that Ginkgo Biloba was helpful for people suffering the effects of Alzheimer’s. Others studies showed that Ginkgo only resulted in a small – three percent – improvement in cognitive function.
The jury is still out on the effectiveness of Ginkgo Biloba as a brain herb to boost IQ, though it is one of the most widely used herbs in North America today.
Rosemary is a very common herb that has been shown to help increase circulation within the brain, stimulating concentration and memory. Many herbalists recommend inhaling rosemary essential oils to heighten the senses; others like to apply the leaves of the plant itself to the temples or drink an herbal tea to help improve concentration.
The Vegetarian Times has an recipe for brain power pita pockets that’s worth checking out.
You can also read a great article all about brain herbs here.
The Power Of Fatty Acids: This Time, Fat Is Good!
Brain herbs aren’t the only substances that can be used to boost IQ. Pyroglutamate acid is a natural substance that has been used to develop several mind-enhancing drugs. These drugs, often called nootropics, are usually available only by prescription.
Though more widely used in Europe, they have yet to gain as much popularity in North America.
Pyroglutamate itself is available over-the-counter, and has been shown to be useful in helping the brain to utilize glucose (sugar) as its primary energy source. It is also purported to improve memory and learning, and to reduce stress.
Brain Herbs Boost IQ: Prescribing Caution
Whether you are using brain herbs to boost your IQ test scores, help you concentrate better or improve your memory, it’s important to be cautious. Demonstrate your intelligence by doing your homework before you make any choices about how they can help make you smarter.
You can learn more about other ways to boost your IQ here.