When we think of diminished mental concentration, perhaps the first images that come to mind are of children struggling with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
However, reduced attention span isn’t unique to ADHD or ASD patients. Neither is the problem restricted to children.
Adults of any age can equally grapple with poor mental concentration. Without proper interventions, the problem can severely impair your decision-making skills and slow down your learning pace.
The net effect? A massive blow to your daytime productivity.
Fortunately, there are multiple tips you can implement to rev up your mental concentration. Solutions range from herbal supplements to lifestyle adjustments. Read below as we uncover the top herbs to improve your focus and stay calm.
1. Kratom
Kratom requires little introduction. Native to the lush forests of Southeast Asia, this plant has been making waves lately for its perceived therapeutic benefits. While most people administer the herb for relaxation, some also consume it to optimize focus and motivation.
Kratom’s distinct effects depend on individual strains. The plant comes in over a dozen strains, including green Maeng Da and red Bali. Green Maeng Da is native to Thailand, while Red Bali is endemic to Bali province in Indonesia.
When comparing the effects of Green Maeng Da vs Red Bali, the focus is usually on their alkaloid content. Both strains are rich in therapeutic alkaloids, including mitragynine, 7-hydroxy mitragynine, mitraciliatine, corynantheidine, etc. However, Maeng Da has a more diverse alkaloid profile, which explains its broad-spectrum effects.
Unlike red Bali, which typically improves focus by calming down racing thoughts, green Maeng Da may soothe your nerves while also activating your energy reserves.
2. Lavender
Lavender is beloved for its remarkable calming properties. That explains why it’s a staple ingredient in common household products, including bath soaps and deodorants.
Lavender’s nootropic properties are rooted in its soothing effects. The herb can quell jitteriness, allowing you to focus better on the task at hand.
Earlier studies found that people who consumed lavender oil demonstrated a marked improvement in nervousness and mood swings. The review further suggested that lavender could support healthy sleep, making it a potential remedy for grogginess.
However, note that lavender’s efficacy depends on proper administration. While lavender oil is safe for topical and aromatherapy applications, oral intake may trigger gastrointestinal side effects like vomiting and diarrhea.
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3. Chamomile
Archaeological findings have traced chamomile use as far back as the ancient Egyptian civilizations. The herb is also conspicuous in Chinese folk medicine, where it was historically used for sore throats and chest colds.
Modern research has since found that chamomile may address mental slump as well.
In a study, it emerged that chamomile could improve focus and restore mental calm by relieving various depressive symptoms. The plant also demonstrated an incredibly high safety profile, making it difficult to overdose.
4. Lemon Balm
It’s nearly impossible to do a checklist of nootropic herbs without referencing lemon balm.
Like most plants on this list, lemon balm boosts attention primarily by combatting mind-clouding feelings of nervousness. Studies have further shown that consuming lemon balm may improve various cognitive functions.
In one research investigating the herb’s cognitive abilities, participants were asked to engage in tasks involving concentration, mathematics, and memory consolidation. When the findings were computerized, the group that consumed lemon balm performed exceptionally better than those who didn’t.
5. Cannabis
No medicinal plant in human history has generated the amount of buzz that cannabis has. While marijuana continues to be treated with skepticism in many regions around the world, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to discredit the herb’s therapeutic abilities.
Cannabis produces at least 100 cannabinoids, with the most prevalent ones being tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). Both CBD and THC may alleviate edginess by ramping up the body’s serotonin and dopamine signaling.
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter involved in transmitting messages from the brain nerve cells to the rest of the body, while dopamine is a pleasure hormone. The two chemicals are expressed within the endocannabinoid system (ECS), the very cell modulatory system impacted by marijuana cannabinoids.
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6. Ginseng
Ginseng’s energy-boosting properties are well-documented. Adding this herb to your morning routine can help you face the day with courage and fortitude.
Ginseng is loaded with powerful compounds that account for its uplifting abilities. Noteworthy mentions include ginsenosides, ciwujianosides, and eleutherosides.
Several human studies have shown that supplementing with ginseng may enhance physical performance in both sedentary and active people. The plant may also resolve mental sluggishness and erratic mood swings.
7. Ashwagandha
The name ashwagandha may not be the easiest to roll off your tongue. But that doesn’t make the herb any less useful.
Considered one of the most potent adaptogens, ashwagandha improves cognitive health by lowering the levels of serum cortisol. Findings indicate the herb is most effective against morning spikes in cortisol levels, making it an excellent inclusion in your breakfast.
Moreover, you can administer ashwagandha in the evening to support healthy sleep by slowing down sleep latency. This may have a ripple effect by reducing grogginess and mental fatigue the day after.
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Summary
With so many herbal remedies to enhance mental focus, picking the right solution may prove daunting for newbies.
Therefore, it’s prudent to research each herb extensively and familiarize yourself with its dominant effects (including potential adverse events) before adding it to your health regimen. Be sure to also choose a plant that aligns with your overall wellness goals.