When we speak here of the brain, we would obviously include the nervous system as well, both from the standpoint of western nutrition as well as from the standpoint of Oriental Medicine.
Strangely to most who will read this, it is said that in Oriental Medicine, the heart is regarded as the basis of the brain, called the Shen or spirit. Interestingly, the brain is categorized separately and termed a ‘curious organ,’ also referred to as ‘the sea of marrow,’ an important factor in treating neurological and emotional disorders. Also from India there is the aphorism: “The mind rises and sets in the heart.” With this in MIND, let us proceed.
Some herbs that I will talk about today have been mentioned previously. These include Siberian Ginseng (Eleuthero), Gotu Kola and Ashwagandha, all of which are central nervous system and adrenal restoratives. Eleuthero, as an adaptogen works in conditions of chronic stress to balance metabolic states. It will enhance memory as well as sensory function. Gotu Kola, the cooling herb of the three, has leaves shaped like cerebral hemispheres, called Brahmi or consciousness, is regarded as the premium memory and meditation herb in Ayurvedic Medicine. Ashwagandha, also an Ayurvedic herb is especially good for conditions of nervous debility and memory loss associated with prolonged illness and old age.
Another presently popular herb that’s available is Gingko (Gingko Biloba), which acts by virtue of its ability to enhance cerebral circulation, thereby allowing for more blood to go to the brain. As such, all manner of mental activities including concentration and memory will be improved. I would mention too, that Gingko benefits systemic circulation in general including coronary vessels and can be very helpful for heart conditions.
Presently, much research has been done for a memory constituent from a club moss, called Huperzine A which has shown promise in conditions of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Calamus, also known as sweet flag here, is a rejuvenative for the brain and nervous system, tending to be somewhat stimulating. It is also available here as an essential oil. In India, known as Vacha, it is said to help restore speech, and, as such, is sacred to the Goddess Sarasvati. Mentioned earlier, also, was Schizandra (Wu Wei Zi), an adrenal and central nervous system restorative (another adaptogen) which increases memory, concentration and sense perception as well as acting as a liver protective and immune system enhancer.
Several Chinese fruits have the ability to nourish heart blood and calm the Shen, these including Jujube Date (Da Zao), and Longan Fruit (Long Yan Rou), available in Chinese Markets. Well now, since we’re talking about foods, I would mention that the proper intake of Omega-3 essential fatty acids, in the form of flax seed oil and fish oils (rich in EPA & DHA), will help to nourish the nerve cell’s myelin sheathing in the central nervous system.
Walnuts are a good brain and essence food (also look like the brain). Almonds too, will nourish essence. Adequate B-vitamins are also very important for nervous system functioning. Lecithin, which is actually a component of egg whites (actually emulsifies the cholesterol of the yolk) is available as a supplement in granule or capsule form. As a source of choline, it provides accumulation of acetylcholine within the brain (a neurotransmitter) which benefits many brain processes, including memory, also enhancing proper liver function.
Apart from that, what about just plain old stress, or perhaps insomnia (Ashwagandha can help!): There’s 5HTP (an amino acid derivative) and Serotonin (a hormone), which both can promote sleep. Then, there’s the western herbs Valerian and Skullcap, as well as Lavender, Sandalwood, Spikenard and Ylang Ylang as essental oils. The oils can be put in Almond oil which is soothing for the nerves when rubbed on the scalp, ears and feet at bedtime.
Andrew Wells, M.S.O.M., L.Ac.
Andrew is a licensed Acupuncturist and Herbalist with background in Ayurvedic Medicine and Nutrition. Consultations are available by telephone or in the office located in the Crestline/Lake Arrowhead areas.
