Rosemary for Memory
Rosemary belongs to the mint family and is related to basil, oregano, and marjoram. It contains Vitamin B-6, iron, and calcium. For many centuries, Rosemary has been used for such ailments as anxiety and depression, headaches, and aching joints. It’s been known to help the nervous system, boost the immune system, aid in digestion, work as a detoxifier, and help with cold symptoms. But did you know that Rosemary can also help improve your memory? Some claim that just breathing in the fumes from fresh rosemary or rosemary oil can give your memory a boost. Combined with other herbs, however, the results can be even better. Mixed together as a tonic or tincture these herbs and plants can have powerful benefits for your body and mind...and yes, even your memory!
What are these other herbs and plants? 1. Rosemary: As the primary ingredient, this herb has been scientifically shown to help improve blood flow, improve the cardiovascular system and stimulate the nervous system. Taking all of these into account has a positive effect on our brain and our memory. 2. Peppermint: The Peppermint herb can provide circulatory stimulation while at the same time having a calming effect on the nerves. It is also high in several minerals and vitamins. 3. Gotu Kola: Also known as Indian or Asiatic Pennywort, this plant is especially known for increasing blood flow to the brain and easing anxiety. Like Rosemary, it also supports the nervous system and cardiovascular system. Other added known benefits is its ability to increase libido and lessen the severity of epileptic episodes. 4. Ginkgo Biloba: Like Rosemary and Gotu Kola, Ginkgo Biloba (also known as the Maidenhair Tree) also aids in strengthening the cardiovascular system. It is also known to be very beneficial for improving brain blood flow which directly affects how well your brain and memory functions. It is also used for the prevention of altitude sickness, dizziness and vertigo, dementia, macular degeneration, and PMS. Note: Only the leaves of this plant should be used. 5. Oat Straw: Also known as Milky Oats, this herb improves blood flow and boosts the health of the endocrine and cardiovascular systems. Relating to brain health, oat straw can help to restore the myelin sheath (an insulating layer made of fatty substances and protein that forms around nerves in the brain and spinal cord) and has been shown to improve memory and concentration in some people.
Recipe
You can use either fresh or dried herbs - both will work.
● 4-parts Rosemary ● 1-part Peppermint ● 1-part Gotu Kola ● 2-parts Gingko Biloba ● 2-parts Oat Straw ● Honey (optional) ● Brandy - any brand will work
Combine all of the herbs in a mixing bowl and mix well. If you plan to store them and make your mixture later, that’s fine. Just store in a cool, dark area. Don’t store them in plastic - something glass is best.
Once you’re ready to prepare your tonic, take a clean, dry jar - a pint sized jar is fine - and fill it halfway with the dried herbs. If using fresh herbs, fill it full. Take the brandy and pour it over the herbs until the jar is ½ full of the brandy. Fill the remaining ½ jar with the honey.
Take a spoon and mix the combination well. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and store in a cool, dark place for 6 weeks, taking it out a few times a week to re-stir. It won’t ruin it though if you forget.
Once the 6 weeks has elapsed, take the jar and strain out all of the herbs. Pour the tonic into a jar and label it. It’s now ready for use.
Dosage The recommended dose is 30 drops per day.
Storage The tonic doesn’t need refrigeration but it does need to be stored in a cool area without direct sunlight. In your cabinet or a pantry works best.
Shelf Life If you used dried herbs and because of the alcohol content, the shelf-life is up to 3 years. The brandy prevents mold growth and kills any bacteria. If you happened to use fresh herbs, though, the shelf-life will be just 6 to 12 months.
As with anything it's not a good idea to take too much. It’s also a good idea to talk with your doctor first before taking this tonic if you have any medical conditions or are on any medication. Those who are pregnant, have heart disease, or are taking diuretics, anticoagulant / blood-thinning drugs, blood pressure medication, or lithium are especially urged to consult with their doctor first. Once you have been cleared by your doctor, enjoy making this tonic recipe and enjoy the boost your memory will receive!
If you’d like to read more about herbal remedies….
Lost Book of Herbal Remedies
This information is not meant as a professional diagnosis or treatment. Please first consult with your doctor.