Internet stimulates brain activity

Another study published last week showed that performing simple searches on the internet greatly improved brain function. The study was conducted on 24 volunteers between the ages of 55 and 78. Half were savvy internet users while the others had minimal experience using the web. After they started conducting searches on the internet for just one hour a day, it was found that even those who previously did not use the internet showed remarkable brain activity in the regions of the brain that controlls language, visual, reading and memory skills. In addition areas of the brain that influence working memory and decision-making were also activated. Therefore doing internet searches definitely helps to stimulate the brain and can help to improve cognition in the elderly. It was also demonstrated that within a few days of using the internet, brain functions matched those of experienced internet users.

The brain like other parts of the body needs stimulation to keep itself active and to retain its abilities. Stimulation such as learning new activities, social interaction, reading etc are very helpful. Ayurvedic herbs such as Bacopa monnieri, Centella asiatica are known to be very stimulating to the brain. Mentat a herbal formulation contains these as well as 24 other herbs and minerals known in Ayurveda to enhance the intellect, memory and cognition.

Herbs that improve memory

Ayurveda recommends specific herbs to improve memory. Some of the main herbs are:

Bacopa / Brahmi contains two main active ingredients, Bacosides A and B. which have been found to increase protein kinase activity and new protein synthesis, specifically in brain cells connected with long term memory. Bacopa increases intellectual and cognitive function and also induces a sense of relaxation.

Gotu Kola / Mandukaparni has been shown in studies both in India and the USA to have remarkable effects in improving brain functions. In a double blind, placebo controlled test, Gotu kola tablets were administered to mentally defficient children for a period of 3 months. A Binet-Kamat test was administered and the children's Intelligence Quotients were recorded. It was shown that the children taking gotu kola had increased their powers of concentration and attention.

Winter Cherry / Ashwagandha is a powerful adaptogenic that helps the mind and body adapt better to stress. Ashwagandha has anti-anxiety and anti-depression effects. Extracts of ashwagandha have shown GABA-like activity and stimulates the growth of axons and dendrites.

Mentat is a formulation of the above herbs as well as 27 additional herbs and minerals. Mentat is formulated according to ayurvedic principles and is designed to improve memory and concentration, boost brain functions and learning ability. It helps to calm and relieve mental stress and promotes relaxation. It improves attention span and is very useful in ADD and ADHD. It can be taken by young and old alike and as a daily brain tonic.

Herbs for mental illness | Herbal treatment for mental disorders

Herbs such as Bacopa (Bacopa monnieri) and Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) are considered premier brain tonics (medha rasayanas) in Ayurveda. These herbs are specifically beneficial to brain tissue. They prevent brain aging and help in regenerating neural tissues. They also have an adaptogenic, stress-relieving and memory enhancing effect. In addition to ayurvedic evidence based on experience, several clinical trials and scientific studies have shown the efficacy and promising results of such herbs and ayurvedic formulations using these herbs.

In a 1993 study involving 286 adults with mild, moderate and severe mental retardation, it was found that those subjects with mild to moderate retardation showed significant improvement in concentration, memory and cognitive abilities after being given bacopa daily for 1 year. Similarly in a study conducted in 1999 it was found that children with mild to moderate mental retardation also showed substantial mental improvement after being treated with Mentat for 6 months.

Children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) also showed significant improvement after being treated with Bacopa and Mentat. Read more on the clinical studies.