Herbal medicine has long been used to improve cognitive function and brain health. When it comes to Ayurveda and brain health, specific botanicals, known as rejuvenative plants, are believed to improve the physical health of the brain (focus, clarity, memory, etc.) and shift the brain to higher frequencies from its regressive patterns of fear, desire, and ambition, based on egoistic function. Here are seven of the best rejuvenative plants used as Ayurvedic brain supplements.
Ayurvedic Brain Supplements
Amalaki
Also called “The nurse,” Amalaki works on all tissue elements and increases Ojas. It is a great nutritive tonic and is packed with Vitamin C, which is a vital antioxidant for the brain. Amalaki brings all three doshas to balance, especially Vata and Pitta. It is one of the three ingredients in Triphala and a key ingredient in Chyawanprash. Chyawanprash is a comprehensive supplement that offers a vast number of health benefits, including brain health.
How to take Amalaki: Capsules, powder, liquid extract, in Chyawanprash
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is said to give the vitality and sexual energy of a horse! It has tonic, rejuvenative, aphrodisiac, nervine, and sedative properties. Plus, it sharpens memory. Ashwagandha is known to be the best rejuvenative herb for Vata and is, generally speaking, the main Ayurvedic rejuvenative for the male, as it balances Yang energy. Its Yin counterpart is Shatavari, the main Ayurvedic rejuvenative for the female.
How to take Ashwagandha: Powder, capsules, liquid extract, in Chyawanprash
Brahmi or Gotu Kola
Along with Calamus, Brahmi is likely the best rejuvenative for the brain. It works on the nervous and circulatory systems and is said to support buddhi - intelligence, longevity, and memory. It fortifies the immune system by cleansing it and reinforcing it. Brahmi also strengthens the adrenals. It is very supportive to all three doshas.
How to take Brahmi: Capsules, powder, liquid extract, in Chyawanprash
Calamus root
This Ayurvedic brain supplement purifies and revitalizes the brain and nervous system. It promotes cerebral circulation, sharpens memory, and enhances awareness. It helps balance Vata and Kapha but can increase Pitta if taken in excess.
How to take Calamus root: Decoction, powder, liquid extract
Ginseng
Ginseng is a powerful rejuvenative for the digestive, respiratory, circulatory, nervous, and reproductive systems. It promotes growth and revitalization of the body and mind. It works particularly well for Vata and combines well with Ashwagandha.
How to take Ginseng: Decoction, powder, capsules, liquid extract
Guggul
Guggul is that wonderful resin that I talked about in my article, Ayurvedic Herbs for Detoxification. It possesses strong purifying and rejuvenating powers, acting on the nervous, circulatory, respiratory, and digestive systems. It helps with nervous disorders. It balances Kapha and Vata but may increase Pitta if taken in excess.
How to take Guggul: Capsules, powder, paste, gum
Haritaki
Haritaki is a fruit that is one of the three ingredients in Triphala. It is a very important Ayurvedic herb and is good for all doshas (especially Vata and Kapha). It feeds the brain and nerves. It is said to be sacred to Shiva and brings about the pure awareness of Shiva. It also promotes longevity!
How to take Haritaki: Powder, capsules, in Chyawanprash
Mind Supplement
You may also want to consider taking an herbal formula specifically designed for nourishing the brain and mind. PIOR Living Mind uses four different classes of organic and wild-harvested herbs to enhance memory, concentration, and mental acuity, including:
- Nervines like brahmi and frankincense help clear, nourish, and calm the nervous system while supporting the growth of healthy neurons, brain, and central nervous system matter
- Nootropics, including moringa and gotu kola, boost brain and cognitive function
- Adaptogens like tulsi and maritime pine bark help relieve stress and promote a sense of supported calm
- Circulatory system supporting herbs, such as amla and pippali, bring proper flow, nourishment, and healthy cellular repair to the brain
These Ayurvedic brain supplements and herbs are wonderful for your mental well-being, helping with disorders like anxiety and depression. However, they’re just one of several ways to take care of your mind. We can also follow an Ayurvedic diet and incorporate specific lifestyle practices (like yoga and mantra therapy) to boost brain health. To learn more, explore our guide to Ayurveda for brain and mental health.
Cecile Antoine Alfonzo, Certified Ayurvedic Lifestyle Consultant & Coach, @cecileantoine_