Cognition / Neuroprotective
Do you feel like your brain has gone on a vacation? There are herbs that can help improve concentration and cognition. Try some of the recipes listed below to help make studying more effective and work time more productive.
Also included are studies about dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia caused by plaque and tangled fibers in the brain.
In addition, neuroprotective herbs can help to protect nerve cells from damage and impairment of function.
Key herbs to help improve cognition and memory include: ginseng, ginkgo, coriander, gotu kola, peppermint, lavender, licorice, rosemary, sage, melissa, and petitgrain.
Recipes to Help Improve Cognition
Blog Articles
RESEARCH
The listings of research below represent a compilation of scientific articles found on the topic, with a very brief overview description of each article/study. This compilation of research articles does not necessarily imply that there are adequate results to demonstrate safe and/or effective human use of any herb listed.
GENERAL
- This article provided a review of research on the medicines and herbs used to treat neurological disorders. From: Sivaraman, D., Anbu, N., Kabilan, N., Kumar, M. P., Shanmugapriya, P., & Christian, G. J. (2019). REVIEW ON CURRENT TREATMENT STRATEGY IN ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE AND ROLE OF HERBS IN TREATING NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS. Int J Trans Res Ind Med, 1(1), 33-43.
A review of research on 28 essential oils to with studies significant to Alzheimer’s disease is provided. From: Benny, A., & Thomas, J. (2019). Essential Oils as Treatment Strategy for Alzheimer ʼ s Disease: Current and Future Perspectives Authors.
ACAI
- Acai berry pulp had a protective effect on brain cells, which could improve cognition and motor function. From: Poulose, S. M., Fisher, D. R., Larson, J., Bielinski, D. F., Rimando, A. M., Carey, A. N., … & Shukitt-Hale, B. (2012). Anthocyanin-rich açai (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) fruit pulp fractions attenuate inflammatory stress signaling in mouse brain BV-2 microglial cells. Journal of agricultural and food chemistry, 60(4), 1084-1093.
ANGELICA
- Angelica extracts reportedly reduced dementia symptoms. From: Kimura, T., & Takamatsu, J. (2015). Ferulic Acid and Angelica archangelica Extract in Dementia: Effects on Cognitive Functions and Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia. In Diet and Nutrition in Dementia and Cognitive Decline (pp. 993-1001). Academic Press.
ANISE
- Bisphenol A (BPA) was a polycarbonate plastic used in plastic containers, baby’s bottle, and water bottles, and is shown to have a neurotoxic effect that can increase with diabetes and decrease with the treatment with anise. From: El-hodairy, F. A. (2014). NEUROPROTECTIVE EFFECTS OF PIMPINELLA ANISUM ON NORMAL AND DIABEITC RATS. International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 6(12), 9-12.
- In young rats exposed to lead, Pimpinella anisum had a beneficial effect on neurotoxicity. From: Bekara, A., Aithamadouche, N., Kahloula, K., Sadi, N., & Aoues, A. K. (2016). Effect of Pimpinella anisum L. on Histological and Biochemical Damage in Cerebrum and Cerebellum of Young Rats Intoxicated by Lead Acetate. Group, 11, 12.
ASHWAGANDHA
- Withania somnifera (ashwagandha root), Semecarpus anacardium (marking-nut stem bark), Embelia ribes (false black pepper root), Tinospora cordifolia (heart-leaved moonseed stem), Ficus religiosa (sacred fig stem bark) and Nardostachys jatamansi (spikenard rhizome) showed the most potent acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity in vitro and maybe useful to treat improved cognition and Alzheimer’s. From: Vinutha, B., Prashanth, D., Salma, K., Sreeja, S. L., Pratiti, D., Padmaja, R., … & Deepak, M. (2007). Screening of selected Indian medicinal plants for acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 109(2), 359-363.
- This paper reviews ashwagandha in vitro and in vivo studies on neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and spinal chord injury. From: Kuboyama, T., Tohda, C., & Komatsu, K. (2014). Effects of Ashwagandha (roots of Withania somnifera) on neurodegenerative diseases. Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 37(6), 892-897.
ASTRAGALUS
- In 68 patients who had a hemorrhagic stroke, taking astragalus over 12 weeks improved recovery. From: Chen, C. C., Lee, H. C., Chang, J. H., Chen, S. S., Li, T. C., Tsai, C. H., … & Hsieh, C. L. (2012). Chinese herb astragalus membranaceus enhances recovery of hemorrhagic stroke: double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized study. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2012.
BASIL
- Human inhalation of basil aroma significantly increased fingertip skin temperature and β waves of the brain associated with improved alertness. From: Satoh, T., & Sugawara, Y. (2003). Effects on humans elicited by inhaling the fragrance of essential oils: Sensory test, multi-channel thermometric study and forehead surface potential wave measurement on basil and peppermint. Analytical Sciences, 19(1), 139-146.
- In a study with 40 healthy participants, taking 300 mg of a holy basil daily for 4 weeks improved memory and attention. From: Sampath, S., Mahapatra, S. C., Padhi, M. M., Sharma, R., & Talwar, A. (2015). Holy basil (Ocimum sanctum Linn.) leaf extract enhances specific cognitive parameters in healthy adult volunteers: a placebo controlled study. Indian journal of physiology and pharmacology, 59(1), 69-77.
- Ocimum sanctum improved cognitive performance in mice and could be used in treatment of cognitive disorders such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. From: Joshi, H., & Parle, M. (2006). Evaluation of nootropic potential of Ocimum sanctum Linn. in mice. Indian journal of experimental biology, 44(2), 133.
- Inhaling peppermint, basil, and helichrysum reduced the level of mental fatigue. From: Varney, E., & Buckle, J. (2013). Effect of inhaled essential oils on mental exhaustion and moderate burnout: a small pilot study. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 19(1), 69-71.
- Ocimum sanctum showed an antioxidant and neuroprotective effect that may be useful in treating cerebral reperfusion injury and cerebrovascular insufficiency states and improve memory loss. From: Yanpallewar, S. U., Rai, S., Kumar, M., & Acharya, S. B. (2004). Evaluation of antioxidant and neuroprotective effect of Ocimum sanctum on transient cerebral ischemia and long-term cerebral hypoperfusion. Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior, 79(1), 155-164.
BERGAMOT
- Bergamot oil reduced neuronal damage caused in vitro by excitotoxic stimuli. From: Corasaniti, M. T., Maiuolo, J., Maida, S., Fratto, V., Navarra, M., Russo, R., … & Bagetta, G. (2007). Cell signaling pathways in the mechanisms of neuroprotection afforded by bergamot essential oil against NMDA‐induced cell death in vitro. British journal of pharmacology, 151(4), 518-529.
- Bergamot was neuroprotection against brain injury induced by focal cerebral ischemia in rats. From: Amantea, D., Fratto, V., Maida, S., Rotiroti, D., Ragusa, S., Nappi, G., … & Corasaniti, M. T. (2009). Prevention of Glutamate Accumulation and Upregulation of Phospho‐Akt may Account for Neuroprotection Afforded by Bergamot Essential Oil against Brain Injury Induced by Focal Cerebral Ischemia in Rat. International review of neurobiology, 85, 389-405.
- Bergamot essential oil may have a neuroprotective effect. From: Bagetta, G., Morrone, L. A., Rombolà, L., Amantea, D., Russo, R., Berliocchi, L., … & Corasaniti, M. T. (2010). Neuropharmacology of the essential oil of bergamot. Fitoterapia, 81(6), 453-461.
BLACK PEPPER
- Piperine isolated from Piper nigrum, taken for two weeks, had a neuroprotective effect in vivo. From: Chonpathompikunlert, P., Wattanathorn, J., & Muchimapura, S. (2010). Piperine, the main alkaloid of Thai black pepper, protects against neurodegeneration and cognitive impairment in animal model of cognitive deficit like condition of Alzheimer’s disease. Food and Chemical Toxicology, 48(3), 798-802.
CAJUPUT
- In a review of essential oils from the Myrtaceae family, those containing higher amount of 1,8-cineole demonstrated the highest activity to inhibit the AchE. Alzheimer’s disease is related to a loss of neuron function and neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh). From: Petrachaianan, T., Chaiyasirisuwan, S., Athikomkulchai, S., & Sareedenchai, V. (2019). Screening of acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity in essential oil from Myrtaceae. TJPS, 43(1), 63-68.
CARNOSIC ACID
- Neuroprotective effects of carnosic acid is discussed. From: Tamaki, Y., Tabuchi, T., Takahashi, T., Kosaka, K., & Satoh, T. (2010). Activated glutathione metabolism participates in protective effects of carnosic acid against oxidative stress in neuronal HT22 cells. Planta medica, 76(07), 683-688.
CHAMOMILE (ROMAN)
- Laurus nobilis may be a chemopreventive agent for neuronal cells or other cells of the CNS. From: Pacifico, S., Gallicchio, M., Lorenz, P., Potenza, N., Galasso, S., Marciano, S., … & Monaco, P. (2013). Apolar Laurus nobilis leaf extracts induce cytotoxicity and apoptosis towards three nervous system cell lines. Food and chemical toxicology, 62, 628-637.
CINEOLE
- In a review of essential oils from the Myrtaceae family, those containing higher amount of 1,8-cineole demonstrated the highest activity to inhibit the AchE. Alzheimer’s disease is related to a loss of neuron function and neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh). From: Petrachaianan, T., Chaiyasirisuwan, S., Athikomkulchai, S., & Sareedenchai, V. (2019). Screening of acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity in essential oil from Myrtaceae. TJPS, 43(1), 63-68.
CINNAMON
- Studies demonstrating the neuroprotective activities of cinnamon are reviewed. From: Kaur, R., & Shri, R. (2018). Role of the Genus Cinnamomum in the Management of Neurodegenerative Diseases: Outcomes and Shortcomings. Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 80(6), 984-995.
COLTSFOOT
- Tussilago farfara (coltsfoot) showed neuroprotective activity in vitro, and may be useful for treating neurodegenerative disorders associated with inflammation, excitotoxicity, or oxidative stress. From: Cho, J., Kim, H. M., Ryu, J. H., Jeong, Y. S., Lee, Y. S., & Jin, C. (2005). Neuroprotective and antioxidant effects of the ethyl acetate fraction prepared from Tussilago farfara L. Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 28(3), 455-460.
CORIANDER
- Coriander extracts boosted memory in rats and may be useful in treating Alzheimer’s. From: Jasira, M., Sailesh, K. S., & Mukkadan, J. K. (2017). Effect of Oral Administration of Coriander Extract on Memory Boosting & Regaining in Wistar Albino Rats. KYAMC Journal, 4(2), 398-401.
- Daily inhalation of coriander essential oil over 21 days improved spatial memory in rats with Alzheimer’s disease. From: Cioanca, O., Hritcu, L., Mihasan, M., & Hancianu, M. (2013). Cognitive-enhancing and antioxidant activities of inhaled coriander volatile oil in amyloid β (1–42) rat model of Alzheimer’s disease. Physiology & behavior, 120, 193-202.
- Coriander seed extracts protected and improved damaged brain cells in rats. From: Enas, A. K. (2010). Study of the possible protective and therapeutic influence of Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) against neurodegenerative disorders and Alzheimer’s disease induced by aluminum chloride in cerebral cortex of male Albino rats. Nat Sci, 8(11), 202-213.
EUCALYPTUS
- In a review of essential oils from the Myrtaceae family, those containing higher amount of 1,8-cineole demonstrated the highest activity to inhibit the AchE. Alzheimer’s disease is related to a loss of neuron function and neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh). From: Petrachaianan, T., Chaiyasirisuwan, S., Athikomkulchai, S., & Sareedenchai, V. (2019). Screening of acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity in essential oil from Myrtaceae. TJPS, 43(1), 63-68.
GINGER
- Anti-neuroinflammatory of ginger and its 10-gingerol compound were demonstrated in vitro. From: Ho, S. C., Chang, K. S., & Lin, C. C. (2013). Anti-neuroinflammatory capacity of fresh ginger is attributed mainly to 10-gingerol. Food chemistry, 141(3), 3183-3191.
GINKGO
- In a 52 week study of 202 patients with dementia, a ginkgo supplement was safe and effective in improving cognition and social function. From: Le Bars, P. L., Katz, M. M., Berman, N., Itil, T. M., Freedman, A. M., & Schatzberg, A. F. (1997). A placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomized trial of an extract of Ginkgo biloba for dementia. Jama, 278(16), 1327-1332.
- Ginkgo biloba showed to be promoising for those with Alzheimer’s in this systematic review. More research is necessary. From: Janßen, I. M., Sturtz, S., Skipka, G., Zentner, A., Garrido, M. V., & Busse, R. (2010). Ginkgo biloba in Alzheimer’s disease: a systematic review Ginkgo biloba bei Alzheimer Demenz: eine systematische Übersicht. Wiener Medizinische Wochenschrift, 160(21-22), 539-546.
- A double blind, placebo controlled, 14 week, parallel group, repeated assessment, multi-center trial study of 256 healthy middle aged volunteers who took an extract of Ginkgo biloba and Panax ginseng demonstrated improved memory. From: Wesnes, K. A., Ward, T., McGinty, A., & Petrini, O. (2000). The memory enhancing effects of a Ginkgo biloba/Panax ginseng combination in healthy middle-aged volunteers. Psychopharmacology, 152(4), 353-361.
- A total of 188 middle aged volunteers took Ginkgo biloba extract for six weeks and demonstrated improved memory recall. From: Kaschel, R. (2011). Specific memory effects of Ginkgo biloba extract EGb 761 in middle-aged healthy volunteers. Phytomedicine, 18(14), 1202-1207.
- In this double blind placebo controlled parallel group study of 31 patients over 50 years old and with a mild to moderate memory impairment, taking a Gingko biloba extract over 6 months showed beneficial results in their cognitive function. From: Rai, G. S., Shovlin, C., & Wesnes, K. A. (1991). A double-blind, placebo controlled study of Ginkgo biloba extract (‘tanakan’) in elderly outpatients with mild to moderate memory impairment. Current medical research and opinion, 12(6), 350-355.
- Improved memory was shown in this double blind, placebo controlled, 14 week, multi-center trial of two dosing regimens of Ginkgo biloba on 256 healthy middle-aged adults. From: Wesnes, K. A., Ward, T., McGinty, A., & Petrini, O. (2000). The memory enhancing effects of a Ginkgo biloba/Panax ginseng combination in healthy middle-aged volunteers. Psychopharmacology, 152(4), 353-361.
- A placebo-controlled, double blind study with 20 young health adults showed ginkgo and ginseng to improve cognitive performance. From: Kennedy, D. O., Scholey, A. B., & Wesnes, K. A. (2001). Differential, dose dependent changes in cognitive performance following acute administration of a Ginkgo biloba/Panax ginseng combination to healthy young volunteers. Nutritional neuroscience, 4(5), 399-412.
GINSENG
- A double blind, placebo controlled, 14 week, parallel group, repeated assessment, multi-center trial study of 256 healthy middle aged volunteers who took an extract of Ginkgo biloba and Panax ginseng demonstrated improved memory. From: Wesnes, K. A., Ward, T., McGinty, A., & Petrini, O. (2000). The memory enhancing effects of a Ginkgo biloba/Panax ginseng combination in healthy middle-aged volunteers. Psychopharmacology, 152(4), 353-361.
- A placebo-controlled, double blind study with 20 young health adults showed ginkgo and ginseng to improve cognitive performance. From: Kennedy, D. O., Scholey, A. B., & Wesnes, K. A. (2001). Differential, dose dependent changes in cognitive performance following acute administration of a Ginkgo biloba/Panax ginseng combination to healthy young volunteers. Nutritional neuroscience, 4(5), 399-412.
GOTU KOLA
- The study determines the molecular mechanism of gotu kola on neuroprotection and memory enhancement in rats. From: Xu, Y., Cao, Z., Khan, I., & Luo, Y. (2008). Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) extract enhances phosphorylation of cyclic AMP response element binding protein in neuroblastoma cells expressing amyloid beta peptide. Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, 13(3), 341-349.
- Gotu kola improved memory in 28 healthy elderly participants. From: Wattanathorn, J., Mator, L., Muchimapura, S., Tongun, T., Pasuriwong, O., Piyawatkul, N., … & Singkhoraard, J. (2008). Positive modulation of cognition and mood in the healthy elderly volunteer following the administration of Centella asiatica. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 116(2), 325-332.
- A study of 41 healthy middle aged adults showed significantly improved cognitive performance with intake of gotu kola as measured using the Woodcock-Johnson Cognitive Abilities Test III. From: Dev, R. D. O. (2009). Comparison on cognitive effects of Centella asiatica in healthy middle age female and male volunteers. Annals of Nutrition and Metabolism, 55, 709.
- In a six month study of 60 elderly, gotu kola given twice a day improved cognition measured by the Mini Mental State Examination. From; Tiwari, S., Singh, S., Patwardhan, K., Gehlot, S., & Gambhir, I. S. (2008). Effect of Centella asiatica on mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and other common age-related clinical problems. Digest Journal of Nanomaterials and Biostructures, 3(4), 215-220.
GRAPEFRUIT
- Juices from grapefruit and sweet orange improved cognitive performance and memory in mice. From: Mallick, N., Anjum, F., Ali, H., & Bano, N. (2018). MEMORY BOOSTING EFFECT OF CITRUS JUICES.
HELICHRYSUM
- Inhaling peppermint, basil, and helichrysum reduced the level of mental fatigue. From: Varney, E., & Buckle, J. (2013). Effect of inhaled essential oils on mental exhaustion and moderate burnout: a small pilot study. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 19(1), 69-71.
JUNIPER BERRY
- Juniperus communis inhalation managed oxidative stress associated with Alzheimer’s disease. From: Cioanca, O., Hancianu, M., Mihasan, M., & Hritcu, L. (2015). Anti-acetylcholinesterase and Antioxidant Activities of Inhaled Juniper Oil on Amyloid Beta (1–42)-Induced Oxidative Stress in the Rat Hippocampus. Neurochemical research, 40(5), 952-960.
Juniper berry extracts had a neuroprotective effect against Parkinson’s disease in vitro. From: Bais, S., Gill, N. S., & Kumar, N. (2015). Neuroprotective effect of Juniperus communis on chlorpromazine induced Parkinson disease in animal model. Chinese Journal of Biology, 2015.
LAVENDER
- In studying improvement of memory and cognition, three Corydalis species were tested for acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity and Corydalis cava, Corydalis intermedia, Corydalis solida ssp. laxa and Corydalis solida exhibited significant inhibitory activity. Extracts of Ruta graveolens (rue), Lavandula angustifolia (lavender), Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary), Petroselinum crispum (parsley) and Mentha spicata (spearmint) exhibited moderate inhibitory activity. From: Adsersen, A., Gauguin, B., Gudiksen, L., & Jäger, A. K. (2006). Screening of plants used in Danish folk medicine to treat memory dysfunction for acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 104(3), 418-422.
- In a study of 49 nursing home residents, lemon balm and lavender had differing positive effects on agitation and dementia. From: Watson, K., Hatcher, D., & Good, A. (2018). A randomised controlled trial of Lavender (Lavandula Angustifolia) and Lemon Balm (Melissa Officinalis) essential oils for the treatment of agitated behaviour in older people with and without dementia. Complementary Therapies in Medicine. Read more…
- Aromatherapy of rosemary and lemon essential oils in the morning, and lavender and orange in the evening improved cognition of Alzheimer’s patients. From: Jimbo, D., Kimura, Y., Taniguchi, M., Inoue, M., & Urakami, K. (2009). Effect of aromatherapy on patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Psychogeriatrics, 9(4), 173-179.
- Lavender and eucalyptus increased reaction time and improved attention in humans. Lavender helped to prolong attention and control vigilance, and thus reduced human error. From: Shimizu, K., Gyokusen, M., Kitamura, S., Kawabe, T., Kozaki, T., Ishibashi, K., … & Kondo, R. (2008). Essential oil of lavender inhibited the decreased attention during a long-term task in humans. Bioscience, biotechnology, and biochemistry, 72(7), 1944-1947. Read more…
- Lavender relaxed test takers, reduced test anxiety, and improved testing ability. Rosemary stimulated test takers, reduced test anxiety, and made them faster but not more accurate when taking the test. From: Diego, M. A., Jones, N. A., Field, T., Hernandez-Reif, M., Schanberg, S., Kuhn, C., … & Galamaga, R. (1998). Aromatherapy positively affects mood, EEG patterns of alertness and math computations. International Journal of Neuroscience, 96(3-4), 217-224.
- Lavender aromatherapy may help with dementia symptoms in the elderly. From; Fujiil, M., Hatakeyamaz, R., Fukuokaz, Y., Yamamotol, T., Sasakil, R., Moriya, M., … & Sasaki, H. (2008). Lavender aromatherapy for behavioral and psychological symptoms in dementia patients. Geriatr Gerontol Int, 8, 136-138.
- Young adult male students (quantity = 36) who were exposed to lavender aroma during recess, then had better work performance results. From: Sakamoto, R., Minoura, K., Usui, A., Ishizuka, Y., & Kanba, S. (2005). Effectiveness of aroma on work efficiency: lavender aroma during recesses prevents deterioration of work performance. Chemical senses, 30(8), 683-691. Read more…
- Olfactory stimulation of lavender in elderly nursing home residents may reduce falls and agitation. From: Sakamoto, Y., Ebihara, S., Ebihara, T., Tomita, N., Toba, K., Freeman, S., … & Kohzuki, M. (2012). Fall prevention using olfactory stimulation with lavender odor in elderly nursing home residents: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 60(6), 1005-1011.
- Rosemary and lavender scents lowered fatigue while lavender also lowered tension (anxiety / confusion) in 73 human participants. From: Burnett, K. M., Solterbeck, L. A., & Strapp, C. M. (2004). Scent and mood state following an anxiety-provoking task. Psychological reports, 95(2), 707-722. Read more…
- In a study of 80 female students, both the aroma of lavender and the aroma of orange reduced test taking anxiety compared to the placebo. From: Bakhsha, F., Yousefi, Z., Aryaee, M., & Jafari, S. Y. (2016). Comparison effect of Lavender and Citrus aurantium aroma on anxiety in female students at Golestan University of Medical Sciences. Journal of Basic Research in Medical Sciences, 3(4), 4-11.
LEMON
- In a controlled study with 58 fourth grade students, the group that inhaled lemon aroma twice a week for 4 weeks had better standardized English test scores than the group who inhaled no aroma. From: Akpinar, B. (2005). The effects of olfactory stimuli on scholastic performance. The Irish Journal of Education/Iris Eireannach an Oideachais, 86-90.
- Lemon oil showed neuroprotective activity related to astrocyte cells in vitro. From: Koo, H. N., Hong, S. H., Kim, C. Y., Ahn, J. W., Lee, Y. G., Kim, J. J., … & Kim, H. M. (2002). Inhibitory effect of apoptosis in human astrocytes CCF-STTG1 cells by lemon oil. Pharmacological research, 45(6), 469-473.
LEMONGRASS
- In a study of 30 women who inhaled lemongrass aroma, cognitive performance and alertness improved without a change in blood pressure or heart rate. From: Sriraksa, N., Kaewwongse, M., Phachonpai, W., & Hawiset, T. (2018). Effects of Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) Essential Oil Inhalation on Cognitive Performance and Mood in Healthy Women. Thai Pharmaceutical and Health Science Journal-วารสาร ไทย เภสัชศาสตร์ และ วิทยาการ สุขภาพ, 13(2), 80-88.
LICORICE
- Ingestion of licorice improved memory in mice. From: Dhingra, D., Parle, M., & Kulkarni, S. K. (2004). Memory enhancing activity of Glycyrrhiza glabra in mice. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 91(2), 361-365.
MELISSA
- In this double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized experiment of 18 healthy adults, M. officinalis at a 600 mg dose improved mood, cognitive testing, and calmness. From: Kennedy, D. O., Little, W., & Scholey, A. B. (2004). Attenuation of laboratory-induced stress in humans after acute administration of Melissa officinalis (Lemon Balm). Psychosomatic medicine, 66(4), 607-613.
- A four month, parallel group, placebo controlled trial of 42 elderly people with moderate Alzheimer’s disease showed that taking an extract of M. officinalis over 4 months reduced agitation and improved cognitive function compared to the placebo. From: Akhondzadeh, S., Noroozian, M., Mohammadi, M., Ohadinia, S., Jamshidi, A. H., & Khani, M. (2003). Melissa officinalis extract in the treatment of patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease: a double blind, randomised, placebo controlled trial. Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry, 74(7), 863-866.
- In a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, balanced crossover study of 20 healthy participants, M. officinalis helped improve cognitive performance and mood. From: Kennedy, D. O., Wake, G., Savelev, S., Tildesley, N. T. J., Perry, E. K., Wesnes, K. A., & Scholey, A. B. (2003). Modulation of mood and cognitive performance following acute administration of single doses of Melissa officinalis (Lemon balm) with human CNS nicotinic and muscarinic receptor-binding properties. Neuropsychopharmacology, 28(10), 1871.
- In this double blind, randomized, placebo controlled study of 44 adults, a combination of sage, rosemary, and melissa ethenal extracts taken internally improved verbal memory, especially in the older age group. From: Perry, N. S. L., Menzies, R., Hodgson, F., Wedgewood, P., Howes, M. J., Brooker, H. J., … & Perry, E. K. (2017). A randomised double-blind placebo-controlled pilot trial of a combined extract of sage, rosemary and melissa, traditional herbal medicines, on the enhancement of memory in normal healthy subjects, including influence of age. Phytomedicine.
MOTHERWORT
- Leonurine (as found in motherwort) had a neuroprotective and potential stroke preventative effect in rats. From: Loh, K. P., Qi, J., Tan, B. K. H., Liu, X. H., Wei, B. G., & Zhu, Y. Z. (2010). Leonurine protects middle cerebral artery occluded rats through antioxidant effect and regulation of mitochondrial function. Stroke, 41(11), 2661-2668.
NIAOULI
- In a review of essential oils from the Myrtaceae family, those containing higher amount of 1,8-cineole demonstrated the highest activity to inhibit the AchE. Alzheimer’s disease is related to a loss of neuron function and neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh). From: Petrachaianan, T., Chaiyasirisuwan, S., Athikomkulchai, S., & Sareedenchai, V. (2019). Screening of acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity in essential oil from Myrtaceae. TJPS, 43(1), 63-68.
NUTMEG
- Nutmeg improved mouse memory. From: Parle, M., Dhingra, D., & Kulkarni, S. K. (2004). Improvement of mouse memory by Myristica fragrans seeds. Journal of medicinal food, 7(2), 157-161. Parle, M., Dhingra, D., & Kulkarni, S. K. (2004). Improvement of mouse memory by Myristica fragrans seeds. Journal of medicinal food, 7(2), 157-161.
ORANGE
- Juices from grapefruit and sweet orange improved cognitive performance and memory in mice. From: Mallick, N., Anjum, F., Ali, H., & Bano, N. (2018). MEMORY BOOSTING EFFECT OF CITRUS JUICES.
- Essential oil from the peel and seeds of sweet orange demonstrated antioxidant and brain protective abilities in vitro. This could be useful related to Alzheimer’s disease. From: Ademosun, A. O., Oboh, G., Olupona, A. J., Oyeleye, S. I., Adewuni, T. M., & Nwanna, E. E. (2016). Comparative Study of Chemical Composition, In Vitro Inhibition of Cholinergic and Monoaminergic Enzymes, and Antioxidant Potentials of Essential Oil from Peels and Seeds of Sweet Orange (C itrus Sinensis [L.] Osbeck) Fruits. Journal of food biochemistry, 40(1), 53-60.
PALMAROSA
- Palmarosa oral extracts showed neuroprotective actions in vivo. From: Buch, P., Patel, V., Ranpariya, V., Sheth, N., & Parmar, S. (2012). Neuroprotective activity of Cymbopogon martinii against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion-induced oxidative stress in rats. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 142(1), 35-40.
PEPPERMINT
- In a study of 24 young adults who ingested peppermint essential oil capsules, results showed improved cognitive performance. From: Kennedy, D., Okello, E., Chazot, P., Howes, M. J., Ohiomokhare, S., Jackson, P., … & Wightman, E. (2018). Volatile Terpenes and Brain Function: Investigation of the Cognitive and Mood Effects of Mentha× Piperita L. Essential Oil with In Vitro Properties Relevant to Central Nervous System Function. Nutrients, 10(8), 1029.
- Peppermint odor improved task performance in clerical work. From: Barker, S., Grayhem, P., Koon, J., Perkins, J., Whalen, A., & Raudenbush, B. (2003). Improved performance on clerical tasks associated with administration of peppermint odor. Perceptual and Motor Skills, 97(3), 1007-1010.
- Inhaling peppermint, basil, and helichrysum reduced the level of mental fatigue. From: Varney, E., & Buckle, J. (2013). Effect of inhaled essential oils on mental exhaustion and moderate burnout: a small pilot study. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 19(1), 69-71.
- Peppermint enhanced memory whereas ylang-ylang impaired it, and peppermint increased alertness while ylang-ylang decreased it, but significantly increased calmness. From: Moss, M., Hewitt, S., Moss, L., & Wesnes, K. (2008). Modulation of cognitive performance and mood by aromas of peppermint and ylang-ylang. International Journal of Neuroscience, 118(1), 59-77.
- Mint demonstrated an antioxidant capability towards neural cells. From: López, V., Martín, S., Gómez‐Serranillos, M. P., Carretero, M. E., Jäger, A. K., & Calvo, M. I. (2010). Neuroprotective and neurochemical properties of mint extracts. Phytotherapy Research, 24(6), 869-874.
PETITGRAIN
- Based on a study of 42 administrative university workers, aromatherapy of petitgrain essential oil could improve work performance in office workers. From: Huang, L., & Capdevila, L. (2017). Aromatherapy improves work performance through balancing the autonomic nervous system. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 23(3), 214-221.
PINE
- Older adults showed improved cognition with a dietary supplement of Pinus radiata bark extract. From: Pipingas, A., Silberstein, R. B., Vitetta, L., Rooy, C. V., Harris, E. V., Young, J. M., … & Nastasi, J. (2008). Improved cognitive performance after dietary supplementation with a Pinus radiata bark extract formulation. Phytotherapy Research, 22(9), 1168-1174.
ROSE
- R. damascena significantly prolonged seizures and reduced the frequency and amplitude in rats. From: Homayoun, M., Seghatoleslam, M., Pourzaki, M., Shafieian, R., Hosseini, M., & Bideskan, A. E. (2015). Anticonvulsant and neuroprotective effects of Rosa damascena hydro-alcoholic extract on rat hippocampus. Avicenna journal of phytomedicine, 5(3), 260.
- This was a 3 month randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial with 40 older patients having dementia. The R. damascena capsule group showed improved cognition and less depression. From: Ebrahim Esfandiary, Z. A., Omranifard, V., Ghanadian, M., Bagherian-Sararoud, R., Karimipour, M., Mahaki, B., & Dabiri, S. (2018). Novel effects of Rosa damascena extract on patients with neurocognitive disorder and depression: A clinical trial study. International journal of preventive medicine, 9.
- R. damascena could reverse behavioral deficits and could be useful to treat cognitive dysfunction in Alzheimer’s disease. From: Esfandiary, E., Karimipour, M., Mardani, M., Ghanadian, M., Alaei, H. A., Mohammadnejad, D., & Esmaeili, A. (2015). Neuroprotective effects of Rosa damascena extract on learning and memory in a rat model of amyloid-β-induced Alzheimer’s disease. Advanced biomedical research, 4.
ROSEMARY
- In this study, 68 students were either given 500 mg of rosemary twice a day or a placebo for a month. The rosemary group had improved memory performance, reduced anxiety, depression, and better sleep. From: Nematolahi, P., Mehrabani, M., Karami-Mohajeri, S., & Dabaghzadeh, F. (2018). Effects of Rosmarinus officinalis L. on memory performance, anxiety, depression, and sleep quality in university students: A randomized clinical trial. Complementary therapies in clinical practice, 30, 24-28.
- In this double blind, randomized, placebo controlled study of 44 adults, a combination of sage, rosemary, and melissa ethenal extracts taken internally improved verbal memory, especially in the older age group. From: Perry, N. S. L., Menzies, R., Hodgson, F., Wedgewood, P., Howes, M. J., Brooker, H. J., … & Perry, E. K. (2017). A randomised double-blind placebo-controlled pilot trial of a combined extract of sage, rosemary and melissa, traditional herbal medicines, on the enhancement of memory in normal healthy subjects, including influence of age. Phytomedicine.
- The potent aroma of rosemary strongly improved environmental context dependent memory in humans. From: Ball, L. J., Shoker, J., & Miles, J. N. (2010). Odour‐based context reinstatement effects with indirect measures of memory: The curious case of rosemary. British Journal of Psychology, 101(4), 655-678.
- Rosemary inhalation improved cognitive assessment in healthy adults. From: Moss, M., Cook, J., Wesnes, K., & Duckett, P. (2003). Aromas of rosemary and lavender essential oils differentially affect cognition and mood in healthy adults. International Journal of Neuroscience, 113(1), 15-38.
- Rosemary and lavender scents lowered fatigue while lavender also lowered tension (anxiety / confusion) in human participants. From: Burnett, K. M., Solterbeck, L. A., & Strapp, C. M. (2004). Scent and mood state following an anxiety-provoking task. Psychological reports, 95(2), 707-722.
- Ingestion of dried rosemary improved cognitive function in the elderly. From: Pengelly, A., Snow, J., Mills, S. Y., Scholey, A., Wesnes, K., & Butler, L. R. (2012). Short-term study on the effects of rosemary on cognitive function in an elderly population. Journal of medicinal food, 15(1), 10-17.
- Inhalation of rosemary had a stimulant effect, improved mood, and brain clarity in participants. From: Sayorwan, W., Ruangrungsi, N., Piriyapunyporn, T., Hongratanaworakit, T., Kotchabhakdi, N., & Siripornpanich, V. (2012). Effects of inhaled rosemary oil on subjective feelings and activities of the nervous system. Scientia pharmaceutica, 81(2), 531-542.
- Rosemary and its rosmarinic acid constituent delayed motor dysfunction, reduced degeneration of motor neurons, and extended life span of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis mice. From: Shimojo, Y., Kosaka, K., Noda, Y., Shimizu, T., & Shirasawa, T. (2010). Effect of rosmarinic acid in motor dysfunction and life span in a mouse model of familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Journal of neuroscience research, 88(4), 896-904.
SAGE
- In a systematic review of multiple human studies, both S. officinalis and S. lavandulaefolia improved cognitive function in healthy patients as well as those with Alzheimer’s / dementia, however higher methodological standardized human clinical trials are needed. From: Miroddi, M., Navarra, M., Quattropani, M. C., Calapai, F., Gangemi, S., & Calapai, G. (2014). Systematic Review of Clinical Trials Assessing Pharmacological Properties of Salvia Species on Memory, Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer’s Disease. CNS neuroscience & therapeutics, 20(6), 485-495.
- In a study of 45 healthy young adults, Salvia officinalis and Salvia lavandulaefolia aroma improved memory performance compared to the control group. From: Moss, M., Rouse, M., & Moss, L. (2014). Aromas of salvia species enhance everyday prospective memory performance in healthy young adults. Advances in Chemical Engineering and Science, 4, 339-346.
- In this randomized, placebo controlled, double blind, cross over study with 20 older adults, a 333 mg extract of sage improved memory and attention. From: Scholey, A. B., Tildesley, N. T., Ballard, C. G., Wesnes, K. A., Tasker, A., Perry, E. K., & Kennedy, D. O. (2008). An extract of Salvia (sage) with anticholinesterase properties improves memory and attention in healthy older volunteers. Psychopharmacology, 198(1), 127-139.
- In this double blind, randomized, placebo controlled study of 44 adults, a combination of sage, rosemary, and melissa ethenal extracts taken internally improved verbal memory, especially in the older age group. From: Perry, N. S. L., Menzies, R., Hodgson, F., Wedgewood, P., Howes, M. J., Brooker, H. J., … & Perry, E. K. (2017). A randomised double-blind placebo-controlled pilot trial of a combined extract of sage, rosemary and melissa, traditional herbal medicines, on the enhancement of memory in normal healthy subjects, including influence of age. Phytomedicine.
SPEARMINT
- In a 3 month study with 90 older adults, intake of a spearmint supplement improved memory. From: Herrlinger, K. A., Nieman, K. M., Sanoshy, K. D., Fonseca, B. A., Lasrado, J. A., Schild, A. L., … & Ceddia, M. A. (2018). Spearmint extract improves working memory in men and women with age-associated memory impairment. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 24(1), 37-47.
- Nine subjects with memory impairment who took 900 mg of a spearmint extract for 3 months had improved memory without side effects. From: Nieman, K., Herrlinger, K., Sanoshy, K., Schild, A., Kelley, K., Maki, K., & Ceddia, M. (2014). Tolerance and Cognitive Function Effects of a Proprietary Spearmint Extract in Men and Women with Self-Reported Memory Impairment-A Pilot Study (LB402). The FASEB Journal, 28(1_supplement), LB402.
- Chewing spearmint gum improved memory. From: Baker, J. R., Bezance, J. B., Zellaby, E., & Aggleton, J. P. (2004). Chewing gum can produce context-dependent effects upon memory. Appetite, 43(2), 207-210.
VETIVER
- V. zizanioides low-dose aromatherapy helped subjects maintain performance in visual discrimination tasks. From: Matsubara, E., Shimizu, K., Fukagawa, M., Ishizi, Y., Kakoi, C., Hatayama, T., … & Kondo, R. (2012). Volatiles emitted from the roots of Vetiveria zizanioides suppress the decline in attention during a visual display terminal task. Biomedical Research, 33(5), 299-308.
YARROW
- In a triple blind randomized placebo controlled study of 75 patients with MS, a daily dose of a yarrow extract reduced relapse rate and related symptoms. From: Ayoobi, F., Moghadam-Ahmadi, A., Amiri, H., Vakilian, A., Heidari, M., Farahmand, H., … & Shamsizadeh, A. (2018). Achillea millefolium is beneficial as an add-on therapy in patients with multiple sclerosis: a randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial. Phytomedicine.
Compiled by: Kathy Sadowski
Updated: 9/19/19
