Most opt for a cup of coffee or an energy drink when they feel the need to improve their memory, sharpen their thoughts, and boost their energy levels. However, caffeine can often leave you feeling overstimulated. Fortunately, there are safe, natural alternatives that can provide you the memory improvement and energy enhancement you’re looking for. Below are three that I have tried and continue to use.

Cognitol

Several years ago I discovered Cognitol, celastrus paniculatus (OM-CHI Herbs, www.omchiherbs.com), an herb mentioned in ancient Indian literature as an intelligence promoter. The seed oil has been studied adequately to prove its safety. Dosages of up to 400 mg/kg showed no side effects and up to 5 grams/kg (1500 times the clinical dose) produced no neurotoxic effects.

Interestingly it has also been reported to serve as a tranquilizer for the nervous system, while at the same time stimulating intellect and sharpening memory. Perhaps its calming of anxiety is the reason for improved learning and memory. It does not produce drowsiness.

Among other benefits, Cognitol stabilizes dopamine and serotonin levels and leads to increased levels of phospholipids in the brain. It has been shown to increase I.Q. in mentally retarded children. It deserves consideration as an afternoon pick-up as well as trials in multiple sclerosis patients.
J. Res. Ind. Med., 1967, 2:191.
BOOST YOUR BRAIN POWER, Keats Pub., 1998
Arch. Int. Pharmacodrn., 144, 1963, pp. 34-50.
Alt. Med., 1986, pp.355-360

GPA

Om-Chi Herbs has combined several excellent herbs in GPA. Ganoderma lucidum, better known as Reishi mushroom, clinically inhibits growth of harmful bacteria and enhances immune function, increasing production of RNA and DNA in bone marrow. It stimulates the production of interferon-1 and-2. It may decrease food sensitivities and is an excellent antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties

Polygonum Multiflora (Fo Ti or Shou Wu Chi) — I first discovered Shou Wu Chi over ten years ago. It is believed to prevent premature aging while maintaining body strength and stamina. I have used it for years and like its chi energizing effects.

Finally, GPA includes Astralgus membranaceus, another general energy or chi strengthening herb. It enhances macrophage activity and increases killer cell activity. It strengthens immune function while inhibiting autoimmune conditions. It is hundreds of times stronger in antioxidant activity than grape seed extract.

THE ANCIENT WISDOM OF THE CHINESE TONIC HERBS, Warner Books, 1998.

MEM-FOR—3 Om-Chi Herbs for memory

Ginkgo biloba is one of the best-known herbs to improve your memory, with improvement in short-term memory as well as learning rate. It decreases platelet aggregation, so it should not be taken with coumadin and should be stopped a week before elective surgery.

Gota kola (centella asiatica) is also reasonably well known as a stimulant for memory and may enhance immune function.

Withania Somnifera (Ashwagandha) is also known as Indian Ginseng. Ashwagandha is especially recommended for nervous exhaustion and it has been helpful in an animal model for Alzheimer’s disease.

THE AYURVEDIC ENCYCLOPEDIA, NATURAL SECRETS TO HEALING PREVENTION AND LONGEVITY.
Fortsch med, 1992, 110: 73-76
J. Res. Ind. Med., 4: 160, 1970

ZANG

ZANG is another Om-Chi product. It combines:

• Panax Ginseng (ginseng) is well known for its anti-fatigue, energy-enhancing properties.
• Cordyceps Sinensis is another of the natural tonics said to be equivalent to ginseng.
• Withania Somnifera (ashwangandha) is described in the section on Mem-For.
• Royal Jelly is one of the great longevity enhancing products.

The bottom line to naturally improve your memory & enhance your energy:

You are unique and have specific needs for improving your memory and energy. You will also have an individual response to each of these supplements.

I personally have explored all these products and find them useful. I think they are much superior to coffee for energy restoration, without overstimulation. If you need energy, stamina, and/or memory enhancement, then I suggest you try each separately for two to 4 weeks and explore the benefits.

Obviously you may combine them but then you would not know which is most effective. Once you have explored individual products, you may wish to try combinations. All seem reasonable and safe. Remember to be cautious of Ginkgo if you are on coumadin.

C. Norman Shealy, M.D., Ph.D. is the father of holistic medicine. He recommends autogenic focus (the basis of the Biogenics System) as part of your commitment to self-health and healthy longevity. Register to download your FREE copy of 90 Days to Self-Health and learn more about autogenic focus now.