Coffee is one, but I’m hearing about others for boosting alertness…”
This was a question that popped into my inbox this week.
First off, I was surprised that this person even knew what the word nootropics referred to, as it isn’t that common.
Secondly, since they mentioned coffee, I wasn’t quite sure I knew which way this convo was headed. Were they after ‘smart drugs’ merely to boost creativity and attention span, or were they interested in long-term brain health?
Thirdly, they had heard that someone had just spent over £200 on fancy ‘nootropics’ online as they thought it was a new scientific discovery for the boosting of brainpower. I had to say I have cupboards full of them which I add to prescriptions for £10/100ml. We call most of them ‘adaptogens’ and they have been used by herbalists for centuries.
Nootropics [AKA adaptogens] can improve and support brain function like memory, targeted focus, and overall mental clarity. Nootropic plants contain constituents that can interact with the brain’s biochemistry to improve blood flow, or boost neurotransmitter production, or protect brain cells from damage, or support the energy production of neurons. They can also [when used regularly] help alleviate mental fatigue, improve stress resilience, and even slow age-related cognitive decline.
Not bad, eh? And they are not addictive…
However, forget ‘magic bullets’: these are not like that. They work best when paired with a healthy lifestyle, good nutrition, regular exercise, and adequate sleep [etc., etc., which I am sure you know].
I am going to share with you my favouritest of all nootropics which you may have in your garden [which makes it free…].
Rosemary!
Yes, that evergreen bush you have growing in your back garden that you may use when you roast lamb is a potent nootropic.
Rosemary has brain-boosting power due to its magnificent phytochemical profile, which includes:
- Rosmarinic Acid: A powerful antioxidant that combats oxidative stress which is linked to neurodegeneration and cognitive decline.
- Carnosic Acid and Carnosol: These compounds support neuroprotection by reducing inflammation and promoting the repair of damaged brain cells.
- Essential Oils: Rich in cineole, camphor, and pinene, rosemary essential oil is known to improve focus and mental clarity, particularly through inhalation.
What do these compounds actually do?
- Improve Blood Flow to the Brain: Rosemary increases cerebral circulation, ensuring the brain receives adequate oxygen and nutrients.
- Boost Neurotransmitters: By aiding the activity of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter crucial for memory and learning, rosemary may help sharpen mental processes.
- Reduce Stress: Its aroma can reduce cortisol levels, calming the stress that can block cognitive function.
Some facts about the benefits of Rosemary to the brain…
- Memory and Learning
Research has shown that inhaling rosemary essential oil can improve memory performance. A notable study found that exposure to rosemary aroma boosted the ability to remember to perform future tasks—by up to 75%. This effect is particularly valuable for students, professionals, and anyone juggling complex tasks. - Focus and Attention
Rosemary’s aroma is stimulating and can counteract mental fatigue and improve alertness. I use it during long study sessions, exams, or stressful workdays. - Protection Against Cognitive Decline
The antioxidants in rosemary help neutralise free radicals that damage brain cells. This protective effect may reduce the risk of age-related neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and dementia. Some research even suggests that rosemary may support the formation of new nerve connections, improving the brain’s adaptability. - Mood Regulation
Rosemary’s aroma is mentally uplifting! Trust me! It has been linked to mood enhancement, reduced anxiety and increased calmness, thus supporting emotional balance.
How to Use Rosemary as a Nootropic
- Sniff the Essential Oil
Inhaling rosemary essential oil is one of the most effective ways to experience its nootropic effects. I used to drip some on a tissue and sniff through all my exams… - Tea or Infusion
If you are brave enough [the taste is quite strong] Rosemary tea is a very simple way to get the benefit of this herb. Steep fresh or dried rosemary in hot water for 10 minutes [I dare you] and drink it to support cognitive function throughout the day. - Tinctures and Capsules
You may get these online, or you could try a herbalist. This will give a more concentrated dose, which is great if you need convenience, or you particularly want a measurable intake. - Culinary Use
Or you can just cook with it, a lot. Use it every day, in omelettes, with a roast, in meatballs, soups, stews or scattered over a tray of roasting vegetables…
Safety and Precautions
Rosemary is generally safe when used in moderation. Of course, if you take very large doses, it may make you nauseous. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a herbalist before using rosemary in concentrated forms, as it may affect uterine contractions. And those with epilepsy or high blood pressure should use rosemary essential oil cautiously.
If you want to learn more about how to use herbs and avoid spending over £200 online for nootropics, then join me in my HerbWorks membership for under £10 a month.
