Brain Health & Mental Wellness

Brain Health & Mental Wellness

Our brain is the control center of our body, responsible for various functions including cognition, memory, and mood regulation. Ensuring optimal brain health is crucial for overall wellbeing and quality of life. Maintaining a healthy brain requires a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, along with regular exercise, adequate sleep, and mental stimulation. While vitamins, minerals and herbs can support brain health and mental wellness, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare professional for any underlying health conditions.

Some key nutrients and herbs known to support brain health and mental wellness are:

• Vitamin D– Plays a crucial role in brain health and has been linked to cognitive function. It helps regulate neurotransmitter synthesis and protects neurons from damage. It also has a role in mood regulation. Low levels of vitamin D have been associated with an increased risk of depression and other mood disorders. Sunlight is the best primary source of vitamin D but can also be obtained from fatty fish and supplements like CHF#93 Vitamin D3.
• Vitamin B Complex– B vitamins like B6, B12 and folic acid (B9) support nerve function and help in the production of neurotransmitters, which are essential for communication between brain cells.
• Antioxidants– Such as vitamin C, E and flavonoids help protect the brain from oxidative stress, which can damage brain cells and contribute to cognitive decline.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids– EPA and DHA play a crucial role in brain development and function, including improving memory and cognitive performance. Research suggests they may help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
• Magnesium– It is involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including those related to mood regulation and stress management. It may help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and improve sleep quality.
• Probiotics– The gut-brain connection is increasingly recognized as significant for mental health. Probiotics, which support a healthy balance of gut bacteria, may have positive effects on mood and cognitive function.
• Herbs– Like Ginkgo Biloba which is known for its potential to improve memory and cognitive function by enhancing blood flow to the brain; Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may benefit brain health and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. Ashwagandha an adaptogen herb has been studied for its potential to reduce stress and anxiety by modulating the body’s stress response. CHF#75 Brain/Memory incorporates some of these herbs in its formula.

Scents You Should Know…EO 02 Basil

Basil originates from tropical Asia and the Pacific Islands but is now throughout Europe and the United States of America. It is used in cooking for the most part, but it has been used for thousands of years as a healing agent.

Basil essential oil is a good tonic for the treatment of nervous disorders and stress headaches and may also treat migraines and allergies. It also has a beneficial action on the respiratory tract; it is often used to assist in fighting bronchitis and sinus infections as well.

Basil oil has a strong, spicy aroma. When used correctly it can soothe the body, refresh the mind and restore mental alertness during times of fatigue. When applied topically, essential basil oil can relax tired, aching muscles.

Basil can also be added to your bath water to assist in this process. Basil essential oil also possesses the antimicrobial effect. This means that it is a natural “bug killer”. It may assist in keeping those pesky mosquito’s away during the spring and summer months. Basil oil may also heighten your sense of smell when inhaled.

Many essential oils make a great food flavorings. They are so concentrated that one or two drops may be the equivalent to a full bottle of dried herbs (one or two ounce size). As a general rule, spice oils have a far stronger flavor than citrus oils. Such strong oils are oregano, nutmeg, cinnamon, marjoram, tarragon, wintergreen, thyme, or BASIL. You may choose to use a toothpick to stir oil into food ensuring that you have not overused the oil.