15 Herbs And Spices To Supercharge Your Brain (#4 Is The Absolute Best!)

Photo credit: bigstock.com

7. Cinnamon

This spice is so much more than it appears to be! Cinnamon might be the thing you put in your coffee or sprinkle over your toast, but did you know that it can also help to protect you from Alzheimer’s disease? The Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease published a study that found that the compounds in cinnamon, epicatechin and cinnamaldehyde, can slow the growth of tau proteins, which play a part in the development of dementia. These powerful compounds in cinnamon can prevent brain cells from swelling and reduce complications from traumatic brain injuries, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Add cinnamon to everything and anything!

8. Vacha

Vacha means speech, and this is another important herb for the brain. Vacha encourages better concentration and improved speech. It has been shown to have a stimulating effect, banishing mental slowness. It can also detoxify the brain and improve memory.

9. Black Pepper

That same spice that is probably sitting on your kitchen table contains a compound called piperine, which improves cognitive function by increasing beta-endorphins. Beta-endorphins act like neurotransmitters in the brain that will encourage feelings of relaxation. This same compound inhibits the enzyme that breaks down serotonin. Researchers believe that black pepper can also prevent or treat Parkinson’s disease, because piperine also inhibits the enzyme that degrades dopamine.

10. Tagara

Sometimes called Indian Valerian, tagara helps to calm emotional or nervous problems. Tagara helps add more oxygen to the brain by improving circulation. This will improve overall feelings of well-being and cognition.

Continue to Page 4