Brain fog, or impaired cognitive function as it is more formally referred to, is a frustrating experience that almost all of us will encounter at some point in life. Used to determine a variety of different issues, the term can describe any feeling that leaves you a little spaced out, and unable to enjoy everyday life like you normally would. Establishing the root cause of your brain fog will enable you to put the necessary solutions in place in order to regain clear-headedness. Below, we explore an array of different herb that can help to increase mental clarity, but first, let’s discuss some of the potential causes of the debilitating health condition.
Common Causes of Brain Fog
When resting, the human mind still uses up to 20-percent of the total energy in your body. Commonly, brain for can occur when extra energy is being used to sort out an internal problem, leaving a minimal amount of energy for the mind to focus on what it is doing. While it’s not unusual for people to experience this at some point in their lives, if brain fog is something you are experiencing regularly, it may be wise to seek professional advice on how to ease your symptoms. Below, we discuss some of the most common causes:
Dehydration – In your younger years, you may recall your parents nagging you about drinking enough water, especially on hot summers days. You’ll be pleased to know that this was actually for a good reason, as dehydration is one of the leading causes of mental fog today. If you are planning to practice a form of sweat-inducing exercise such as hot yoga, ensure you are getting enough fluids throughout the session in addition to wearing breathable yoga gear. If you begin feeling a little spaced out, take a short break and try sipping a glass of fresh water to rejuvenate your fluid levels.
Stress and anxiety – When the body is running as it should, the adrenal glands produce an array of hormones that help the body to deal with stress; one of which is the hormone known as cortisol. Throughout the duration of particularly stressful periods in your life, it’s not uncommon for the adrenal glands to become overworked, consequently causing a lack of hormones to be produced. This can result in a variety of different symptoms, including but not limited to brain fog.
Lack of sleep – While this point may seem obvious, it’s important to remember that failing to get enough restful sleep is a sure way to induce mental fog.
Diet – Eating a healthy, balanced diet is essential for optimum mental clarity. It takes the body more energy to digest greasy, processed foods, so if you are consuming a high amount of these on a regular basis, it’s likely that there will be less energy left to allow for clear thinking.
Underlying health issues – If you notice that brain fog is becoming a common occurrence and you don’t believe it to be caused by any of the factors above, then it may be a sensible to visit your local GP to get some professional advice. Un unclear mental state can often be brought on by underlying health issues, due to the body using the main bulk of its energy to attempt to resolve the problem.
Herbs that encourage mental clarity
Certain herbs can work wonders to increase mental clarity and all-around good health. Below, we explore a selection of your favorites, looking into the incredible benefits they boast.
Rosemary
This brain-boosting herb can be used for more than sprinkling on your evening meal. Typically popular in the form of an essential oil, Rosemary can be burned to improve the efficiency of mental tasks. In addition to helping with mental fog, the oil can be used in aromatherapy to help the memory, too.
Vacha
Although traditionally used to treat issues within the nervous system, Vacha is used today to enhance clear-thinking and concentration. With reports that the herb has a stimulating effect in some circumstances, Vacha is a popular choice for sufferers of mental clouding.
Gotu Kola
Deriving from Australia and South-East Asia, Gotu Kola is commonly known for its power of enhancing blood circulation in the body. The herb is famously used to balance out brain activity, aiding the function of the memory.
Ginseng
Frequently used in cooking, this superfood is great for improved mental clarity. Popular to add into an array of breakfast options, ginseng is commonly added to a morning smoothie or sprinkled on cereal to set your body up for the day. This incredible herb is thought to boost the ability to protect the brain from toxic cells, helping to prevent age-related conditions including dementia.
Ginkgo Biloba
For thousands of years, Ginkgo Biloba is said to have been used in ancient healing practices. The herb is thought to provide an array of benefits to our mental state. Similar to ginseng, research suggests this herb has the power to protect brain cells, helping to retain optimum cognitive function as we age.
Rhodiola
Although more of a root than a herb, Rhodiola is thought to assist the body and mind when experiencing times of stress and anxiety. With the ability to help cognitive function during times of hardship, Rhodiola is a popular choice for sufferers of the dreaded brain fog.
Tulsi
Studies have found that Tulsi helps to oxygenate to blood, boosting the function of the brain in addition to all-around circulation. To stay healthy and for optimum mental clarity, Tulsi is a great herb to try out.
Huperzine-A
This incredible herb, deriving from a type of Chinese Moss, is thought to boost overall brain function, in addition to protecting the brain against conditions such as Alzheimer’s.
Bacopa
With a wide array of benefits including reduced stress, enhanced memory, and improved mental function, Bacopa is another popular choice of herb for individuals experiencing periods of brain fog. Like previous herbs mentioned, Bacopa is believed to provide protection against age-related mental diseases, such as Alzheimer’s.
In Summary
Whether you’re a sufferer of chronic brain fog looking for a little helping hand, or you’re interested in improving your memory and overall cognitive function, these incredible superfoods have got you covered. Although these herbs are generally considered safe and beneficial to the body, it’s essential to remember that if you begin to notice any negative effects then it’s wise to get the advice of an experienced health professional just to be safe.