Herbs for memory: do they really work?
Herbs said to boost memory are very popular. But studies testing these claims have mostly been disappointing.
In short
A large study showed that ginkgo does not prevent dementia in older people. Studies of rosemary and gotu kola have not shown a clear effect on memory either.
The plants, strongest evidence first
Ginkgo Ginkgo biloba
Its standardised extract is recognised in Europe for mild age-related forgetfulness. But a large US study showed that ginkgo does not prevent dementia in older people. It can increase bleeding risk.
Rosemary Salvia rosmarinus
There are small studies on memory, but the results are not conclusive.
Mountain tea Sideritis türleri
A few small studies on attention and cognitive function gave limited results.