Your diet plays a crucial role in your mental well-being and psychical health, as they are intricately connected. Have you ever thought about everyday spices that could give your brain an internal boost and begin to function at an optimal level? The 10 spices below have been studied extensively and shown to create a happy and healthier brain. Consider adding these 10 spices to your current diet, or better yet cook with them, to improve overall brain health and prevent cognitive decline.
TUMERIC
Found in curry, turmeric contains a chemical that has been shown to decrease plaques and tangles in the brain thought to be responsible for the onset of Alzheimer’s disease.
SAFFRON
In 3 specific studies conducted by Dr. Daniel Amen, a saffron extract was found to be as effective as antidepressant medication in treating people with major depression and various anxiety disorders.
SAGE
There is strong scientific evidence that sage helps to improve and strengthen the hippocampus of our brains, which is responsible for memory.
CINNAMON
Cinnamon has been shown to help regulate attention, and focus. Additionally, it helps regulate blood sugar, which decreases the hunger hormone Ghrelin, while boosting Leptin—the satiety hormone responsible for fullness.
BASIL
Basil, a common antioxidant pizza topper, is responsible for improving blood flow to the heart and brain, and has additional anti-inflammatory properties that offer protection from Alzheimer’s disease, and other forms of dementia.
THYME
Thyme is responsible for increasing the amount of DHA, an essential fatty acid in the brain. DHA is responsible for playing a central role in brain health. In fact, an optimal intake of DHA is especially essential for pregnant and nursing mothers to ensure adequate brain development for their children.
OREGANO
Oregano, especially dried oregano, has between 30-40 times the brain healing antioxidant power of raw blueberries, 46 times more than Quercetin that is found in the skin of apples, and 56 times as much as strawberries, making it one of the most powerful brain cell protectors on the planet.
GINGER
Ginger can potentially make you smarter. A study that combined ginger with ginkgo biloba suggests that it does, and further studies aiming to replicate those earlier findings are currently underway. Ginger root extract may also be beneficial in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, and for those who suffer from migraine/tension headaches.
GARILIC
Garlic promotes better blood flow to the brain, and was also shown in a 2007 study to stop/destroy brain cancer cells.
ROSEMARY
A recent study highlighted the beneficial effects of rosemary in diminishing cognitive decline in people with dementia. Fresh or dried will do the trick.
Outside of our genetic blueprint, a lot of things regarding our overall health are really in our hands, and specifically found in nature. A great way to exercise the power we have of our mental and physical health is to incorporate these healing spices into our diet, for we will be rewarded with happier and healthier brains in the long run.