The brain is the most important and most mysterious organ in the body. Philosophers throughout history have described the brain as the home of intelligence and reason, the seat of the mind, and the seat of the soul. While the brain has been studied since ancient times, modern scientists admit that we still have a lot to learn about the brain and how it works. Fortunately, we do have some information on herbs and supplements that support the brain and mental clarity. Let’s dive head-first into some brain science!
Brain Structure & Function
The brain is the organ at the center of the nervous system in most vertebrates and invertebrates, including humans. It is responsible for thought, judgment, reason, memory, and keeping the systems in our bodies regulated. The brain sends and receives signals throughout the body, with help from the spinal cord and nervous system, and interprets these signals to control different processes. Think of your brain as the “command center” of your body.
The human adult brain weighs about 3 pounds on average and is made up of fat, water, and proteins. It contains billions of nerve cells (neurons). The brain can be divided into different sections, and each section has a unique function.
- The cerebrum is the largest part of the brain and contains the cerebral cortex. It regulates temperature, processes speech, and enables reasoning, problem-solving, and emotions.
- The brainstem connects the cerebrum to the spinal cord, sending messages to and from the brain.
- The cerebellum, or “little brain,” communicates with the cerebral cortex and allows us to maintain balance and posture. The cerebellum is located at the back of the brain, just above the brainstem.
Supplements for Brain Health & Mental Clarity
We can all use extra support sometimes. Yes, this can mean your brain, too! The following supplement ingredients inspired by Nature are commonly linked to brain and cognitive benefits.*
Lion’s Mane
Lion’s Mane mushroom ( Hericium erinaceus) has been touted for having cognitive-supporting properties. Lion’s Mane is considered a nootropic, which is a substance or supplement for mental clarity and cognitive support. New Chapter® designed our Mind Force™ Lion’s Mane mushroom blend to nourish the brain with the help of nootropics. Crafted with a unique blend of organic Lion’s Mane and Reishi mushrooms, Mind Force supports mental clarity and naturally enhanced focus.*
Fish Oil
Fish oil is a tried-and-true classic for heart health, but did you know that it is also among the top supplements for the brain and brain health? Fish oil contains good Omega fatty acids such as DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) as well as beneficial triglycerides that help nourish your brain.* Health experts recommend you eat at least 2 servings of fish a week so you’re getting a source of these key Omegas. If you don’t eat that much fish, consider taking a regular supplement like Wholemega™ Fish Oil to fill gaps in your diet.
Turmeric
Turmeric isn’t just for healthy inflammation response. It also supports healthy cognitive function such as working memory, which is the ability to retain and recall information during short-term tasks.* New Chapter’s Turmeric supplements, like Turmeric Force, are crafted with dual extracts of whole-herb Turmeric to deliver Curcumin your body can use without the need for black pepper additives.
Multivitamins
Multivitamins help you cover your bases with essential nutrients for foundational wellness. When choosing a multivitamin, look for Vitamin B! The eight B vitamins in multivitamin blends support brain health and the nervous system overall.* At New Chapter, our multivitamins with fermented B vitamins are formulated for your body to recognize and really absorb the good stuff.
Benefits of Mental Clarity Herbs
Many common herbs have cognitive-supporting properties or could be considered herbs for mental clarity.
Rhodiola: Rhodiola rosea is a beloved adaptogen that supports mental stamina, endurance, and energy under conditions of exertion and sleep disruption.* This is a perfect herb if you work a high-stress job or have long workdays. Check it out in New Chapter's potent Rhodiola Force™.
Lemon balm: Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) is a calming herb commonly taken as a tea or tisane but can also be taken as an herbal supplement! New Chapter’s Lemon Balm Force is made from pure and potent Lemon Balm extract and supports a clear mind, healthy mood, calm and well-being.*
Holy Basil: Also called Tulsi, Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum) has been described throughout herbal history as the “Queen of Herbs.” Holy Basil is believed to benefit cognitive functions that support your alertness, focus, and healthy attention span, including speed of memory and short-term memory.*
Ashwagandha: Get the Ashwa-goodness! Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a powerful adaptogen from the Ayurvedic tradition that helps balance mood and ease both mental and physical stress.* As the name suggests, adaptogens help you adapt to everyday stressors like a busy workday. Consider adding an Ashwagandha supplement to your regimen if you seek to rebalance.
When to Take Mental Clarity Supplements
Mental clarity supplements are there for you whenever you want some support. Check the “Suggested Use” printed on the supplement label for any specific information on when to take that product. If you have questions about adding a mental clarity supplement to your regimen, talk to your healthcare professional about the best products and amounts for you.
The Bottom Line
We’ve all been there. Everyone has days when they struggle to get things done or need a boost to get through. No matter your goal, whether it be improved focus, memory support, or clearing occasional brain fog, there are ingredients from Nature that can help. New Chapter is proud to offer excellent quality brain health supplements designed with the above ingredients, like Wildly Pure™ fish oil, regeneratively farmed supercritical Turmeric, and organic USA-grown mushrooms. We’re there for you, today and every day. That’s wellness, well done!
