Ginkgo, bacopa and Ayurvedic plants for concentration
Fiona Benoît
ASCA Pharmacist-Therapist · RCC M799262 · 4 min read
In phytotherapy, several plants act on cerebral circulation, memory and resistance to mental exhaustion. An overview of what our pharmacist recommends.
Key points
- Ginkgo biloba: promotes cerebral circulation and concentration
- Bacopa monnieri: used in Ayurvedic medicine for 3000 years for the intellect
- Ginseng: energy in case of mental and physical exhaustion
- Peppermint EO, cineole rosemary: awakening the mind by inhalation or internally
The flagship plant: ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba promotes cerebral circulation and therefore concentration by increasing the supply of oxygen through the blood. It is often combined with ginseng, which provides energy in case of mental and physical exhaustion. Without taking any substances, exercise in the open air or breathing exercises also help improve cerebral oxygenation.
Bacopa: the great forgotten one of Ayurveda
Traditional Indian medicine has used a plant called Bacopa monnieri for nearly 3,000 years. The ancient Ayurvedic writings recommended it to treat various conditions affecting the intellect or the central nervous system: anxiety, disorders of cognition or attention, depression, epileptic seizures, neurological disorders. In Ayurvedic medicine, bacopa is also used to promote relaxation and sleep.
Aromatherapy for mental awakening
Peppermint essential oil as well as cineole rosemary essential oil enable the awakening of the mind, whether internally, externally or by inhalation. Other plants can also help: eleutherococcus (Siberian ginseng), gotu kola (Centella), hericium and ashwagandha.
Age-related cognitive disorders
If it concerns cognitive disorders related to age or to a neurodegenerative pathology, turmeric and omega-3 (notably DHA) will be your best allies. Learn to breathe, oxygenate yourself and take the time to free your mind; it will then be much more operational on a daily basis.
Source: maj lherbo.docx, Concentration section
Note: This article is written for informational purposes. It does not replace medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before any treatment, especially in case of chronic illness or while taking medication.
More advice from Fio
Adaptogenic plants and aromatherapy to get through stress
Allergy and immunity: the plants and probiotics that make the difference
Internal nutrition to prepare your skin for the sun: carotenoids, vitamins C, E and B3
Plant proteins: how to cover your needs without animal products