By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 19, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Brain Fog
Herbal creams for brain fog are topical preparations that combine herbs with moisturizing ingredients to promote cognitive clarity and reduce mental fogginess.
They work by increasing blood flow to the brain and promoting the absorption of beneficial compounds. Examples include ginkgo biloba, peppermint, and bacopa monnieri creams, which have been shown to improve focus, memory, and mental performance.
Users often report improved concentration and mental clarity, allowing them to tackle daily tasks with greater ease and confidence.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for brain fog, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Ginkgo biloba
- 2. Bacopa monnieri
- 3. Withania somnifera
- 4. Centella asiatica
- 5. Hypericum perforatum
- 6. Melissa officinalis
- 7. Passiflora incarnata
- 8. Valeriana officinalis
- 9. Humulus lupulus
- 10. Salvia officinalis
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for brain fog?
- What ailments similar to brain fog are treated with herbal creams?
1. Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba, also known as maidenhair tree, creams helps with brain fog because they improve blood flow to the brain, enhancing cognitive function and memory.
The active compounds in Ginkgo biloba, such as flavonoids and terpenoids, have antioxidant properties that protect the brain from oxidative stress and inflammation. This leads to improved focus, concentration, and mental clarity, reducing the feeling of brain fog.
Regular use of Ginkgo biloba creams may also support overall brain health and promote a sense of mental well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba creams that help with brain fog.
- Flavonoids: These plant-based compounds help improve blood flow to the brain, reducing the symptoms of brain fog by increasing oxygenation and nutrient delivery to brain cells.
- Bilobalide: This sesquiterpene lactone has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help protect brain cells from damage, supporting cognitive function and reducing the severity of brain fog.
- Quercetin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, leading to improved cognitive function and reduced brain fog symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make creams for brain fog.
- Leaves: Leaves are the most commonly used part of Ginkgo biloba due to their high content of flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to improve blood flow to the brain.
- Barks: Barks are also used, particularly in traditional Chinese medicine, as they contain similar compounds to the leaves, which help to enhance cognitive function.
- Seeds: Seeds are used due to their high content of bilobalide, a compound that has been shown to have neuroprotective properties and may help to alleviate symptoms of brain fog.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for brain fog.
- Prepare a double boiler by filling a large pot with water and bringing it to a simmer.
- Melt 1/2 cup of beeswax in the double boiler while stirring occasionally for 5-10 minutes.
- Add 1/4 cup of sweet almond oil and 1/4 cup of jojoba oil to the melted beeswax.
- Add 10 grams of ginkgo biloba extract to the oil mixture and stir to combine thoroughly.
- Pour the mixture into a container and let it cool and set at room temperature for 30 minutes.
2. Bacopa monnieri
Bacopa monnieri, also known as brahmi, creams helps with brain fog because it is rich in bacosides, a group of bioactive compounds that support cognitive function and memory.
These compounds have been shown to enhance the growth and branching of neurons, improving communication between brain cells and promoting the formation of new neural connections.
This can lead to improved focus, concentration, and mental clarity, helping to alleviate the symptoms of brain fog and support overall brain health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Bacopa monnieri creams that help with brain fog.
- Bacosides: Bacosides, a group of triterpenoid saponins, help alleviate brain fog by enhancing cognitive function, memory, and neuronal communication, thereby improving mental clarity and focus.
- Bacopasides: Bacopasides, another type of triterpenoid saponin, contribute to reducing brain fog by possessing neuroprotective properties, which may help prevent neuronal damage and promote healthy brain function.
- Monnierin: Monnierin, an alkaloid compound, aids in mitigating brain fog by exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, leading to improved cognitive performance.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of brahmi used to make creams for brain fog.
- Leaves: Used due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, such as bacosides, which are believed to enhance memory and cognitive function.
- Barks: Used for their potential neuroprotective properties, which may help reduce inflammation and promote overall brain health.
- Roots: Used as they are rich in bacosides and other compounds that may help improve memory, cognitive function, and mental processing speed.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic brahmi for brain fog.
- Harvest 1/2 cup of bacopa monnieri leaves and flowers when they are fresh and in full bloom typically after summer rain.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours to reduce moisture content.
- Combine 1 tablespoon of dried bacopa monnieri with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a double boiler to infuse the oil.
- Simmer the mixture in the double boiler at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 30 minutes to allow the bacopa monnieri to infuse the oil completely.
- Strain the infused oil and whip it with 2 tablespoons of shea butter to create a smooth and creamy texture.
3. Withania somnifera
Withania somnifera, also known as ashwagandha, creams helps with brain fog because it is rich in antioxidants and has adaptogenic properties.
The herb is believed to help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, leading to improved cognitive function and reduced mental fatigue.
By supporting the body's natural response to stress, ashwagandha cream may help increase focus, concentration, and memory, making it a popular natural remedy for individuals seeking to alleviate brain fog and enhance overall mental clarity.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Withania somnifera creams that help with brain fog.
- Withanolides: These steroidal lactones help alleviate brain fog by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, thereby improving cognitive function.
- Withaferin a: As a bioactive alkaloid, Withaferin A has been shown to enhance memory and cognitive performance by inhibiting the formation of beta-amyloid plaques, a key contributor to brain fog.
- Withanone: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help protect the brain from oxidative damage, promoting improved focus, memory, and mental clarity.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ashwagandha used to make creams for brain fog.
- Roots: As they are rich in bioactive compounds like withanolides, which have been shown to have cognitive-enhancing properties.
- Leaves: Due to their high content of antioxidants and other phytochemicals that may help reduce oxidative stress and promote brain health.
- Seeds: As they contain a higher concentration of withanolides compared to the roots, making them a valuable ingredient in brain fog creams.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ashwagandha for brain fog.
- Extract dried withania somnifera roots by soaking them in a solvent like ethanol or glycerin for 2 weeks.
- Combine the extracted solution with distilled water in a 1:10 ratio to create a 1:50 w/v solution.
- Prepare a base cream by mixing 200 grams of distilled water with 20 grams of carbomer and 10 grams.
- Mix the herbal extract solution with the base cream in a 1:1 ratio while continuously stirring to avoid.
- Fill the prepared cream into sterile containers and seal them to prevent contamination and oxidation.
4. Centella asiatica
Centella asiatica, also known as asiatic pennywort, creams helps with brain fog because of its ability to improve blood flow and oxygenation to the brain.
The herb contains compounds like asiaticoside and madecassoside, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce oxidative stress and promote neuroplasticity. As a result, Centella asiatica creams may enhance focus, concentration, and mental clarity, reducing feelings of mental fogginess and fatigue.
By supporting brain health, these creams can help individuals stay focused and productive throughout the day.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Centella asiatica creams that help with brain fog.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds, particularly asiatic acid and madecassic acid, have neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce brain fog by promoting a healthy brain environment.
- Glycosides: Centella asiatica contains various glycosides, including asiaticoside and madecasoside, which may enhance blood flow to the brain, improving cognitive function and reducing symptoms of brain fog.
- Phenolic acids: The phenolic acids in Centella asiatica, such as ferulic acid, have antioxidant properties that may help protect the brain from oxidative stress and inflammation, contributing to improved cognitive function and reduced brain fog.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of asiatic pennywort used to make creams for brain fog.
- Leaves: Leaves contain a high concentration of active compounds such as asiaticoside and madecassoside, which have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties that help alleviate brain fog.
- Roots: Roots of Centella asiatica contain compounds like asiatic acid, which has been shown to improve cognitive function and reduce oxidative stress associated with brain fog.
- Stems: Stems also contain asiaticoside and madecassoside, which contribute to the overall neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of Centella asiatica extracts used in brain fog creams.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic asiatic pennywort for brain fog.
- Harvest 50 grams of dried centella asiatica leaves and flowers by cutting them during their peak potency season.
- Steep the dried centella asiatica in 250 milliliters of boiling water for 30 minutes to create a strong infusion.
- Strain the centella asiatica infusion using cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain 200 milliliters of liquid.
- Combine 20 grams of beeswax and 50 grams of shea butter in a double boiler and melt them together.
- Blend 50 milliliters of the centella asiatica infusion with the melted beeswax and shea butter mixture to create a smooth cream.
5. Hypericum perforatum
Hypericum perforatum, also known as St. John's Wort, creams helps with brain fog because of its ability to enhance cognitive function and promote mental clarity.
The active compounds in St. John's Wort, such as hyperforin and hypericin, have been shown to have a positive impact on neurotransmitter levels, including serotonin and dopamine, which play a crucial role in regulating mood and focus.
By supporting the balance of these neurotransmitters, St. John's Wort creams may help alleviate symptoms of brain fog, improving mental performance and overall cognitive well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum creams that help with brain fog.
- Hyperforin: A phloroglucinol derivative that has been shown to have neuroprotective properties, which may help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, contributing to improved cognitive function.
- N-acylated flavonoids: These phenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, leading to improved cognitive function and reduced brain fog.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, contributing to improved cognitive function and reduced brain fog.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make creams for brain fog.
- Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids and hyperforin, which have been shown to improve cognitive function and reduce inflammation.
- Flowers: They are a good source of hypericin, a compound that has been found to have neuroprotective properties and improve memory.
- Stems: They contain flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that may help to reduce oxidative stress and improve brain function.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for brain fog.
- Harvest 20-30 grams of fresh hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves on a dry sunny day.
- Dry the harvested material in a low-temperature oven at 50°c for 2 hours.
- Grind 10 grams of dried hypericum perforatum into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
- Mix the powdered hypericum perforatum with 100 grams of beeswax and 100 grams of coconut oil in a saucepan.
- Heat the mixture over low heat at 60°c for 10 minutes, then let it cool and thicken.
6. Melissa officinalis
Melissa officinalis, also known as lemon balm, creams helps with brain fog because it contains compounds like rosmarinic acid and melissic acid that have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
These properties may help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, leading to improved cognitive function and reduced brain fog. Additionally, lemon balm's calming effects can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which are common contributors to brain fog, promoting a clearer and more focused mind.
Regular use may also enhance memory and mental clarity.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis creams that help with brain fog.
- Rosmarinic acid: An antioxidant phenolic compound that helps alleviate brain fog by scavenging free radicals and reducing oxidative stress in the brain.
- Linalool: A terpene that has been shown to improve cognitive function and reduce brain fog by promoting relaxation, reducing anxiety, and improving sleep quality.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid that has anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, which help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, ultimately leading to improved cognitive function and reduced brain fog.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make creams for brain fog.
- Leaves: They are commonly used due to their high content of melissic acid, which has a calming effect and helps to reduce mental fatigue.
- Flowers: The flowers of Melissa officinalis are used for their fragrance and bioactive compounds, which may contribute to improved cognitive function and reduced brain fog.
- Stems: The stems are sometimes used in combination with the leaves and flowers to create a more comprehensive herbal extract for brain health benefits.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for brain fog.
- Harvest 50g of melissa officinalis flowers at peak bloom and dry them in a warm place for 1 week.
- Combine 20g of dried melissa officinalis flowers with 200ml of carrier oil in a dark glass bottle.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks to allow the infusion to complete.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth and discard the solids then add 5g of beeswax.
- Blend the mixture thoroughly and pour it into small containers to cool and set for 30 minutes.
7. Passiflora incarnata
Passiflora incarnata, also known as maypop, creams helps with brain fog because it contains a unique blend of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and alkaloids.
These compounds interact with the brain's neurotransmitters to promote relaxation and reduce stress levels. By calming the nervous system, Passiflora incarnata creams can improve focus, concentration, and mental clarity, effectively addressing brain fog.
Additionally, its sedative properties can help regulate sleep patterns, further contributing to improved cognitive function and reduced mental fatigue.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata creams that help with brain fog.
- Flavonoids: These plant-derived compounds have antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, contributing to improved cognitive function.
- Alkaloids: These alkaloids have been found to have neuroprotective properties, which may help protect the brain from damage and promote improved focus and concentration.
- Rotenoids: Although typically associated with toxicity, small amounts of rotenoids like Rotenone have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the brain and alleviate symptoms of brain fog.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make creams for brain fog.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high concentration of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Roots: They are used because of their rich content of alkaloids, particularly harman and harmine, which have shown potential in improving cognitive function and reducing brain fog.
- Barks: They are used due to their high content of flavonoids and phenolic acids, similar to the leaves, which may help alleviate symptoms of brain fog and improve cognitive function.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maypop for brain fog.
- Dry the passiflora incarnata flowers by spreading them on a paper bag for 2 weeks to ensure complete desiccation.
- Infuse the dried flowers in 2 cups of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth and discard the solids then store the oil in a cool dark place.
- Mix 1 cup of the infused oil with 1/2 cup of beeswax and 1/4 cup of shea butter in a double boiler.
- Whip the mixture until it thickens and cools then transfer it to a glass jar for storage.
8. Valeriana officinalis
Valeriana officinalis, also known as valerian, creams helps with brain fog because of its unique ability to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
The active compounds in valerian root, such as valerenic acid and isovaleric acid, have a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help to quiet the mind and improve focus.
By reducing inflammation and promoting better sleep, valerian creams can also help to alleviate symptoms of brain fog, leading to improved cognitive function and a clearer mind.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis creams that help with brain fog.
- Valerenic acid: This valerenic acid constituent helps alleviate brain fog by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety through its GABA-ergic and GABA-mimetic properties.
- Valeranone: As a terpenoid, valeranone contributes to the reduction of brain fog by inhibiting the reuptake of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, thereby enhancing mood and cognitive function.
- Isovaleric acid: This organic acid constituent helps combat brain fog by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, which may improve focus and mental clarity.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make creams for brain fog.
- Roots: The roots of Valeriana officinalis contain the highest concentration of valerenic acids, which contribute to its sedative and anxiolytic properties, helping to reduce brain fog.
- Leaves: Valeriana officinalis leaves are rich in valerenic acids, which can help to calm the mind and promote relaxation, reducing the effects of brain fog.
- Flowers: Valeriana officinalis flowers contain valerenic acids and other compounds that contribute to their calming effects, which can help alleviate brain fog and promote better mental clarity.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for brain fog.
- Harvest 1-2 pounds of fresh valeriana officinalis roots in the early morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Clean and dry the harvested roots in a well-ventilated area for 2-3 days or until completely dry.
- Grind 2 tablespoons of dried valeriana officinalis roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar.
- Steep 1 cup of dried valeriana officinalis powder in 2 cups of carrier oil such as coconut or sweet almond oil for 2-4 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil and mix it with 1 tablespoon of beeswax and 1 tablespoon of shea butter to create a smooth cream consistency.
9. Humulus lupulus
Humulus lupulus, also known as hops, creams helps with brain fog because of its ability to promote relaxation and reduce stress levels.
The antianxiety properties of hops work by binding to GABA receptors in the brain, calming neural activity and improving focus. Hops also contain antioxidants and flavonoids that help protect the brain from oxidative stress and inflammation, leading to improved cognitive function and reduced mental fogginess.
This makes herbal hops creams a popular natural remedy for alleviating brain fog and promoting mental clarity.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Humulus lupulus creams that help with brain fog.
- Lupulone: A sesquiterpene, lupulone has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate brain fog by reducing inflammation in the brain and promoting better cognitive function.
- Isohumulones: These sesquiterpenes have a sedative effect, which can help calm the mind and reduce mental fogginess by promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
- Herniarin: A flavonoid, herniarin has antioxidant properties, which may help protect the brain from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals, potentially contributing to clearer thinking and improved focus.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of hops used to make creams for brain fog.
- Flowers: They are used due to their high content of essential oils, particularly humulene and lupulone, which have been shown to have neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Leaves: They are used due to their rich content of flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which have been found to possess antioxidant and cognitive-enhancing properties.
- Stems: They are used due to their high content of lignans, particularly neolignans, which have been shown to have neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to alleviate brain fog.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hops for brain fog.
- Harvest 25 grams of dried humulus lupulus flowers at the end of the growing season for optimal potency.
- Infuse 10 grams of the harvested flowers in 100 milliliters of carrier oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused mixture through cheesecloth and discard the solids after 48 hours.
- Mix the extracted oil with 20 grams of beeswax and 10 milliliters of distilled water for 10 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into a glass jar and allow it to cool and solidify for 30 minutes.
10. Salvia officinalis
Salvia officinalis, also known as sage, creams helps with brain fog because of its unique combination of active compounds, including rosmarinic acid, apigenin, and ursolic acid.
These flavonoids and phenolic acids have been shown to improve cognitive function, enhance memory, and increase focus.
By reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, sage creams can help alleviate brain fog and promote a sense of clarity and mental sharpness, making it an attractive natural solution for individuals seeking to boost their mental performance.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis creams that help with brain fog.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound, rosmarinic acid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help protect the brain from oxidative stress and inflammation, which can contribute to brain fog.
- Ursolic acid: A triterpenoid, ursolic acid has neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects that may help improve cognitive function and reduce brain fog by promoting the health and survival of neurons.
- Salvianolic acid a: A phenolic compound, salvianolic acid A has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, which can contribute to brain fog and cognitive decline.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make creams for brain fog.
- Leaves: Used due to their high concentration of neuroprotective compounds, such as salvinorin A, which is believed to improve cognitive function.
- Stems: Used for their antioxidant properties, which help protect the brain from oxidative stress and inflammation associated with brain fog.
- Roots: Used for their potential to stimulate the nervous system and improve memory, although more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for brain fog.
- Harvest fresh salvia officinalis leaves in the morning when they are at their most fragrant and potent flavor.
- Dry the harvested leaves in a well-ventilated area at a temperature not exceeding 35 degrees celsius for 2 weeks.
- Combine 250 grams of dried salvia officinalis leaves with 500 milliliters of carrier oil such as coconut oil in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a double boiler for 2 hours at a temperature of 60 degrees celsius to extract the active compounds.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and store it in a cool dark place for 4 weeks before using it as an herbal cream.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for brain fog?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with brain fog is often found in a blend of Ginkgo Biloba, Bacopa Monnieri, and Rhodiola Rosea.
Ginkgo Biloba supports blood flow to the brain, improving cognitive function and memory. Bacopa Monnieri enhances focus and mental clarity, while Rhodiola Rosea helps reduce stress and anxiety. Together, these herbs can promote mental clarity, improve mood, and enhance overall cognitive function, making them an effective combination for alleviating brain fog.
Regular use can lead to improved mental performance.
What ailments similar to brain fog are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to brain fog that are treated with herbal creams are stress-related conditions such as anxiety, insomnia, and depression.
Herbal creams containing ingredients like ashwagandha, chamomile, and lavender can help alleviate symptoms of restlessness, irritability, and difficulty concentrating.
They may also be used to treat cognitive impairment associated with age-related decline or neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's disease.