Back in time, there were no hospitals or doctors, so people relied on nature itself to improve their health or treat some disease. They tried different herbs until they figured out their roles and benefits.

In modern-day world, we do have hospitals and doctors that help us with every health aspect, but the importance of herbs didn’t fade away. They have anti-inflammatory properties and active compounds that cut down the risk of numerous diseases. What most of us don’t realize is that herbs also benefit brain health and give us sharp memory.

So, what herbs to use for better brain health? Here are nine suggestions!

1. Turmeric

Turmeric is one of the healthiest plants on our planet, and it is the main reason why curry has its striking yellow color. Benefits of turmeric are numerous, and they also include brain health thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Turmeric contains an active compound called curcumin, and evidence shows that this substance improves working memory and attention span in older adults. Scientists explained that curcumin has multiple psychological functions and it works by reducing inflammation and improving blood flow. This enhances multiple processes that navigate brain functioning in a positive direction.

2. Sage

Sage has been used throughout the history for various medicinal purposes. One of many benefits of this wonderful herb is a sharp memory.

Research from the Pharmacology, Biochemistry, and Behavior showed that sage is highly effective in improving memory. Scientists enrolled young adults who were given capsules containing sage oil or placebo. Participants then took part in word recall test. They were tested at intervals to see how many words they can remember. Results showed that participants from the sage oil group consistently performed better than young adults who received placebo.

3. Bacopa Monnier

Bacopa Monnier has a long history in traditional Hindu medicine where it was primarily used for brain-boosting properties.

The Rejuvenation Research published a review of current scientific evidence about bacopa Monnier, and it revealed the herb has a massive potential to improve brain health. Scientists discovered that bacopa could ameliorate cognitive disorders, oxidative damage, and it is associated with a cognitive enhancement in healthy individuals.

4. Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo biloba exhibits potent anti-inflammatory benefits and improves blood flow in the brain. Evidence shows that long-term use of Ginkgo biloba improves behavioral performance on working memory tests. It is also important to bear in mind that Ginkgo biloba helps heal and regenerate cells in the brain and it plays a role in memory, attention, and intelligence. This explains why Ginkgo biloba is a common ingredient in brain health-boosting supplements.

5. Garlic

Garlic belongs to the group of the healthy brain foods; which is yet another reason to include it into your menu.

One study discovered that consumption of garlic increased memory retention and overall cognitive performance in rats. These findings support the use of garlic as a food supplement for the enhancement of memory. In a separate study, scientists at the University of Missouri found that garlic offers brain protection against aging and disease. In fact, garlic could prevent age-related neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

6. Gotu Kola

Gotu kola, or Centella Asiatica, is a herb with a long history as a natural remedy for conditions affecting brain and body. Evidence shows the herb is known to revitalize the brain and nervous system, increase attention span and concentration, as well as to combat aging.

Centella Asiatica works to prevent cognitive deficits and oxidative stress. Additionally, herb activates the release of BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), a protein that functions as a fertilizer for the brain and encourages the formation of new brain cells.

7. Rosemary

Rosemary makes a wonderful addition to almost every meal. Now you’ll have an additional reason to include rosemary into your recipes – it improves your memory.

A study carried out by scientists at the Northumbria University revealed that exposure to the aroma of rosemary can significantly enhance working memory.

For the purpose of this research, scientists enrolled children who were randomly assigned to a room that had either rosemary oil diffused in it or no scent at all. Analysis showed that children who were exposed to rosemary received higher working memory scores than their counterparts from the control group. Although the link between rosemary and memory is not clear, it could be due to the herb’s impact on electrical activity in the brain.

8. Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is one of the most potent Ayurvedic herbs; it has been used for healing and medicinal purposes since ancient times.

The Journal of Dietary Supplements published a study which found that after 8 weeks the ashwagandha treatment group demonstrated significant improvements compared to placebo. The improvements associated with this herb included better immediate and general memory. Also, use of this herb was linked with increased executive function, sustained attention, and information-processing

9. Peppermint

This popular herb is known for refreshing and revitalizing scent. In fact, the scent of peppermint is what makes it so beneficial for your brain and memory.

One study showed that peppermint tea has the potential to improve both short- and long-term working memory. The minty scent stimulates the hippocampus area of the brain, which regulates memory and mental clarity, thus making you more alert as well.


Herbs have been since ancient times for medicinal purposes including brain health and memory. They are still widely used today. As shown above, benefits of brain-healthy herbs are scientifically confirmed. They have the ability to improve your memory, alertness, and decrease the risk of diseases.

Some herbs are also included in the formula of dietary supplements e.g. ginkgo and bacopa according to Provasil reviews. Combine herbs with a healthy lifestyle for optimal brain health.