Loss of Memory

Memory consists of remembering what has previously been learned. For example, when some on e remembers a person’s name , for example, he demonstrates both that he learned the name at some previous time and he had retained it during the intervening time when he might never have once thought of it. Retention is inactive, remembering is active and both are included under the general head of memory.

Ayurveda considers both body and mind to be closely inter linked. According to ayurveda no phenomenon is exclusively physical or mental. The body or mind might predominate in one case and might work as a secondary factor in another case. Thus for good memory as also for the treatment of loss of memory, both psychic and physical factors are held to be effective.

Treatment:

They grow in marshy land near perennial streams. The juice of these plants is used in medicine. About 30ml.of juice is given to the patient twice daily on an empty stomach. Both of these are bitter and astringent. It is therefore administered with some honey to make it palatable. The fat is well known for its tonic effect on both the heart and the brain. 

Traditional Ayurvedic Uses:

Shankapushpi is quoted in Charaka to be the single greatest herb for enhancing all three aspects of mind power -- learning (Dhi), memory (Driti), and recall (Smriti). Thus it is called the greatest Medhya Rasayana (that which enhances the mind). It helps the quality of sleep by improving mind-body coordination.

It is also praised as the best herb for beauty, stating that it achieves the goal of beauty, which is auspiciousness in all parts of the body (Subhanga Karanam). It also helps to nourish all layers of the skin (Twachya effect). It enhances all three pillars of Ayurvedic beauty, known as outer beauty, inner beauty, and lasting beauty.

Shankapushpi is very beneficial for the nervous system, enhancing the quality of bone marrow and nerve tissue (Majja Dhatu).

The other drug used by Ayurvedic physicians in the treatment of this condition is called “vacha”. The herbs also grows in marshy land. The rhizome or root of these plant  is used in medicine .It is cleaned properly and then made to a fine powder by grinding. One teaspoonful of this powder should be given to the patient twice daily, mixed with honey or cow’s ghee. Many Ayurvedic preparations for the promoting of memory like sarasvata churna, contains brahmi and vacha.

Herbs which is useful :

Shankhpushpi:



Popularly known to treat sleep disorders - stress and anxiety, Shankapushpi is quoted in Charaka to be the single greatest herb for enhancing all three aspects of mind power -- learning (Dhi), memory (Driti), and recall (Smriti). Thus it is called the greatest Medhya Rasayana (that which enhances the mind). It helps the quality of sleep by improving mind-body coordination.Shankapushpi is very beneficial for the nervous system, enhancing the quality of bone marrow and nerve tissue (Majja Dhatu).

Brahmi: 



Brahmi is reported to have sedative as well as cardiotonic effects due to the presence of hersaponin, one of four saponins isolated fom the plant. , In 50 mg/kg doses, alcoholic extracts produced mild tranquilizing effects on albino rats and dogs. The alcoholic extract of the entire plant displayed anticancer activity against Walker carcinosarcoma 256 in rats. Oral administration of the alcoholic extract in aqueous suspension for three or more days was found to improve the learning curve in rats in various learning situations.

Brahmi has been traditionally used for nervous disorders, epilepsy, senility, premature aging, hair loss, obstinate skin conditions and venereal diseases. It is considered the primary Ayurvedic nerve and cardiac tonic. It pacifies high vata or pitta. Brahmi relieves mental fatigue, brings undisturbed sleep and treats convulsions. Scientific research suggests that Brahmi (Centella asiatica) improves memory, mental functions and reduces learning time.

Jatamanshi: 



Jatamansi can be used in the treatment of several nervous & convulsive disorders such as hysteria, epileptic fits, and certain disturbances caused by menopause. In very small doses it soothes the nervous system and acts as a tranquiliser.


Ashwagandha:



Ashwagandha is highly valued for its restorative action on the functioning of nervous system and counteracting high blood pressure. It corrects loss of memory arising out of long term stress, illness and overwork. Restores vitality in those suffering from overwork and nervous exhaustion. In fact having the ability to nurture the nervous system, counteract anxiety and stress to promote a calm state of mind,  the same Ashvagandha having powerful anti-inflammatory properties, is specific for treating arthritic and rheumatic conditions.

Ashwagandha's diverse applications range from anti-stress and anti-cancer to enhancement of memory and learning. It is used effectively for insomnia but does not act as a sedative. Its rejuvenative and nervine properties provide the kind of energy the body needs to settle and sleep. In this way it helps the body deal with stress, as opposed to masking it with a drug.

Ashwagandha is used instead of ginseng to rejuvenate the nervous system, relieve insomnia, and counteract stress without the drowsy aftereffects of sedatives. It acts as an adaptogen, anti-inflammatory, aphrodesiac, nervine, respiratory stimulant, and gentle tonic. It stimulates deep-tissue cleansing, prevents stress-related gastrointestinal ulcers, increases physical endurance, prevents the depletion of vitamin C, is anti-aging and increases libido and sexual function. It has anti-cancer properties and enhances memory and learning.


Jyotishmati:



It is an well-endowed, woody climbing twiner, and grows almost all over India, especially in the hilly areas. Seeds are also used to increase memory and are used in loss of appetite, fever and rheumatism. Ayurvedic practitioners have used Jyotishmati widely in psychosomatic disorders. It activates functioning of brain and also strengthens the person to endure the stress, may be emotional or physical. It has been reported to show a depressing effect on the central nervous system and a significant reduction in anxiety.


Ayurvedic Supplements :

SHANKHAPUSHPI SHARBAT
MEMORAX
STRESS GUARD

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