What is Dementia?

Dementia generally refers to memory loss and is quite a common condition. The risk of developing dementia increases as one ages, and the condition usually occurs in people over the age of 65.

Causes of Dementia

The major risk factor of dementia is old age. But long-term consumption of western junk diet and physical and cognitive inactivity can also impact the memory. Epigenetic and environmental factors can also play a role.

Other risk factors for dementia include cardiovascular and cerebrovascular problems. Excessive alcohol consumption, social isolation, traumatic brain injury can also cause dementia.

Dementia in Ayurveda

This condition is not mentioned as a separate disease entity in Ayurvedic classics and is considered as a natural part of ageing, but sign and symptoms of dementia can be understood in details as per Ayurvedic concepts of cognition.

A resembling term used for dementia in Ayurveda is Smritivibhransha (Smriti – memory; vibhransha – destruction). When on account of the psyche (Manas) being clouded with obsession and delusion i.e., Rajomohavritatmanah, the retention of true knowledge is destroyed leading to loss of memory (smriti), rational thinking (dhee) and retaining power of the mind (dhriti). This state is called the derangement of memory (Smriti).

It needs early detection and treatment.

Natural Ayurvedic herbs that work best for boosting memory

Popular Ayurvedic medicinal plants (Ashwagandha, Turmeric, Brahmi, Shankhpushpi, gotu kola, and guggulu) not only reduce brain aging and induce antistress and memory enhancing effects which help in regeneration of neural tissues, but also induce antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiamyloidogenic, nutritional, and immune-supportive effects in the human body.

Brahmi: Brahmi is a known brain booster. It sharpens the brain, fight stress and reduce depression. Brahmi works as a tranquilizer, anti-anxiety, anti-depressant, and brain function enhancer.

Licorice: Licorice improves cognitive power and memory. It reduces aging effects on the brain by preventing degeneration of neurons.

Turmeric: It is one of the best medicines for improving memory and concentration. Ladened with antioxidants, curcumin, and curcuminoids, it fights the effects of free radicals. Turmeric also lowers inflammation of nerves, improves sleep quality, reduces anxiety and acts as a stress buster.

Ashwagandha: It provides overall nourishment and rejuvenation. Ashwagandha repairs and prevents brain cells from damage. It prevents and reverses the damage leading to dementia.