Herbal medicine has long been used to improve cognitive function and brain health. In Ayurveda, specific botanicals, known as rejuvenative plants, are believed to shift the brain to higher frequencies from its regressive patterns of fear, desire and ambition based on egoistic function.
Rejuvenative plants contain what is called Soma, the nectar of immortality, also called Ojas. It is the basis for clarity of perception, physical strength and endurance, and strong, healthy tissues. It is the subtle essence and energy of the nervous system.
Here’s a list of the top 7 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. It sharpens memory. It 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 Aswagandha? powder, capsules, liquid extract, in Chyawanprash.
Brahmi or Gotu Kola
Along with Calamus, it is likely the best rejuvenative for the brain. It works on the nervous and circulatory systems. It is said to support buddhi – intelligence, longevity and memory. It fortifies the immune system by cleansing it and reinforcing it, and it strengthens the adrenals. It is very supportive to all three doshas.
How to take Brahmi? capsules, powder, liquid extract, in Chyawanprash.
Calamus root
It purifies & revitalizes the brain and nervous system. It promotes cerebral circulation, sharpens memory and enhances awareness. It brings Vata and Kapha to balance, 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. It acts 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 the 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 promotes longevity!
How to take Haritaki? powder, capsules, in Chyawanprash.
Keep in mind that Ayurvedic brain supplements are only one way to improve brain health. We can also use lifestyle, diet and Ayurveda for brain health.
Cultivate Happy & Healthy!
Cecile Antoine Alfonzo
Certified Ayurvedic Lifestyle Consultant & Coach
