By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 08, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Brain Fog
Herbal tinctures for brain fog are concentrated liquid extracts made from plant-based ingredients, specifically designed to enhance mental clarity and focus.
They work by promoting blood flow to the brain, reducing inflammation, and regulating neurotransmitters that affect mood and cognitive function. Examples of herbal tinctures that help with brain fog include Bacopa Monnieri, Ginkgo Biloba, and Lion's Mane Mushroom.
By using these tinctures, individuals can experience improved concentration, reduced mental fogginess, and enhanced problem-solving abilities, leading to a more productive and fulfilling life.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for brain fog, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Bacopa monnieri
- 2. Ginkgo biloba
- 3. Panax ginseng
- 4. Rhodiola rosea
- 5. Withania somnifera
- 6. Centella asiatica
- 7. Schisandra chinensis
- 8. Eleutherococcus senticosus
- 9. Melissa officinalis
- 10. Passiflora incarnata
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for brain fog?
- What ailments similar to brain fog are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Bacopa monnieri
Brahmi tinctures helps with brain fog because they contain a potent blend of herbs that work to improve cognitive function and mental clarity.
The key active compound, Brahmi extract, enhances blood flow to the brain, increasing oxygenation and nourishment to brain cells. This boost in cerebral circulation also amplifies the production of neurotransmitters such as acetylcholine, dopamine, and serotonin, which play a crucial role in focus, attention, and memory consolidation.
As a result, brahmi tinctures can help alleviate mental fogginess, allowing individuals to stay focused and mentally sharp throughout the day.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Bacopa monnieri tinctures that help with brain fog.
- Bacosides: Bacosides, a group of glycosides, help with brain fog by enhancing cognitive function, particularly memory and learning, through their neuroprotective and nootropic properties.
- Bacopasides: Bacopasides, another group of compounds similar to bacosides, aid in reducing brain fog by exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which protect neurons from oxidative stress and promote overall brain health.
- Triterpenoid saponins: Triterpenoid saponins, including compounds like monnierin and bacoside A, help alleviate brain fog by inhibiting the breakdown of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter essential for memory and cognitive function, and also by promoting the expression of genes involved in neuroprotection and synaptic plasticity.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of brahmi used to make tinctures for brain fog.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high concentration of bacosides, which are considered responsible for the herb's neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing properties.
- Roots: They are used as they contain a higher amount of bacosides compared to other parts, making them a preferred choice for tinctures.
- Stems: They are used as they also contain bacosides, although in lower amounts compared to roots and leaves, but still contribute to the herb's overall effectiveness.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic brahmi for brain fog.
- Harvest 1 to 2 pounds of fresh bacopa monnieri leaves and flowers at peak potency for optimal results.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a low-temperature oven at 95 to 105 degrees fahrenheit for 1 to 2 hours.
- Crush 1 part of the dried plant material into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle.
- Steep 1 part of the powdered plant material in 2 parts of 80 to 100 proof grain alcohol in a clean glass jar for 2 to 6 weeks.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
2. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with brain fog because of its unique ability to support cognitive function.
The tincture's active compounds, such as caffeoylquinic acid and quercetin, have been shown to improve memory and concentration by increasing blood flow to the brain. Additionally, the tincture's adaptogenic properties help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, which can contribute to feelings of mental fogginess.
As a result, regular use of maidenhair tree tinctures may help to clarify thinking, enhance focus, and leave you feeling mentally clear and sharp.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba tinctures that help with brain fog.
- Bilobalide: This terpene helps improve blood flow to the brain, reducing the severity of brain fog by increasing oxygenation and nutrient delivery to brain cells.
- Quercetin: As a flavonoid phenolic compound, quercetin has potent antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, thereby alleviating brain fog symptoms.
- Ginkgolides: These terpene lactones have vasodilatory properties, which help improve blood flow to the brain and reduce inflammation, resulting in enhanced cognitive function and reduced brain fog.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make tinctures for brain fog.
- Leaves: The leaves of Ginkgo biloba are primarily used to make tinctures for brain fog due to their high concentration of flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to improve blood flow to the brain.
- Seeds: Ginkgo biloba seeds contain bilobalide, a compound that may help alleviate brain fog by reducing inflammation and improving memory.
- Barks: The bark of Ginkgo biloba is sometimes used to make tinctures for brain fog, as it contains flavonoids and terpenoids that may help improve cognitive function.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for brain fog.
- Harvest 2-4 pounds of ginkgo biloba leaves and flowers in late summer or early fall when they are fully ripe.
- Dry the harvested ginkgo biloba leaves and flowers in a cool dark place for 2-4 weeks to reduce moisture content.
- Chop 2-4 ounces of dried ginkgo biloba leaves and flowers into small pieces to increase surface area for tincture extraction.
- Steep the chopped ginkgo biloba in 100-proof vodka or grain alcohol at a 1:2 leaf-to-liquid ratio for 2-4 weeks.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter and store it in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid.
3. Panax ginseng
Ginseng tinctures helps with brain fog because of its ability to improve cognitive function, particularly in areas such as concentration and memory.
The herb's active compounds, including ginsenosides and panaxosides, have been shown to enhance blood flow to the brain, increasing oxygenation and nutrient delivery to neurons.
This leads to improved mental clarity, reduced mental fatigue, and a sense of increased focus and alertness, allowing individuals to overcome brain fog and stay mentally sharp throughout the day.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Panax ginseng tinctures that help with brain fog.
- Ginsenosides: These triterpenoid saponins help alleviate brain fog by improving blood flow to the brain, enhancing cognitive function, and modulating neurotransmitter activity.
- Ginsenoside rg1: Specifically, Rg1 has been shown to increase the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein essential for neuronal growth and survival, thus reducing brain fog and improving cognitive clarity.
- Ginsenoside re: This saponin has been found to inhibit the activity of acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme involved in the breakdown of acetylcholine, a key neurotransmitter involved in memory and cognitive function, thereby reducing brain fog and improving mental acuity.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginseng used to make tinctures for brain fog.
- Roots: The roots of Panax ginseng are commonly used due to their high concentration of ginsenosides, which are believed to have cognitive-enhancing properties.
- Leaves: The leaves of Panax ginseng are also used in tinctures, as they contain bioactive compounds that may help improve mental clarity and focus.
- Barks: The barks of Panax ginseng are used in some tinctures, as they are thought to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help alleviate brain fog symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginseng for brain fog.
- Gather 100g of dried panax ginseng root and 50% ethanol as solvent for tincture preparation.
- Cut the dried root into small pieces to increase its surface area for solvent absorption.
- Combine the root pieces with 500ml of 50% ethanol in a clean glass container.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks to allow for extraction.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
4. Rhodiola rosea
Golden root tinctures helps with brain fog because it contains a powerful adaptogen that has been shown to improve cognitive function and reduce mental fatigue.
The herb, also known as Rhodiola rosea, enhances memory and concentration by increasing the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which are essential for focus and mental clarity.
Additionally, golden root tinctures have been found to increase blood flow to the brain, leading to improved mental performance and a sense of clarity and focus.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rhodiola rosea tinctures that help with brain fog.
- Rosavin: Rosavin, a phenolic glycoside, helps reduce brain fog by improving mental performance and enhancing the body's adaptability to stress, which can contribute to mental fatigue.
- Salidroside: Salidroside, a phenylethanol glycoside, alleviates brain fog by promoting antioxidant activity, reducing oxidative stress, and protecting neurons from damage, thus supporting brain health.
- Tyrosol: Tyrosol, a phenolic compound, helps combat brain fog by acting as a potent antioxidant, reducing inflammation, and modulating neurotransmitter activity, which can contribute to improved cognitive function.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of golden root used to make tinctures for brain fog.
- Roots: The roots are the primary part used due to their high concentration of active compounds, particularly rosavin and salidroside, which have been shown to improve cognitive function and reduce stress.
- Leaves: The leaves are also used for their high content of rosavin and salidroside, making them a secondary option for tincture production and providing similar benefits to the roots.
- Fruits: The fruits, although less commonly used, contain some active compounds and are occasionally used to make tinctures, although their effectiveness is less documented compared to the roots and leaves.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic golden root for brain fog.
- Gather 1 part of dried rhodiola rosea roots and flowers in a 1:5 ratio with a neutral solvent like glycerin or ethanol.
- Combine the herb mixture with 5 parts of the solvent in a clean glass container and stir well to combine.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks or 14-21 days with occasional shaking.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean container to separate the liquid from solids.
- Bottle the tincture and store it in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks or 28-42 days before using.
5. Withania somnifera
Ashwagandha tinctures helps with brain fog because it addresses the root cause of mental clarity issues - stress and anxiety.
The herbal extract calms the nervous system, reducing cortisol levels and promoting a sense of calm focus. Additionally, ashwagandha's adaptogenic properties help regulate neurotransmitters such as GABA, serotonin, and dopamine, which are essential for clear thinking and concentration.
By balancing these neurotransmitters, ashwagandha tinctures can improve mental acuity, reducing the feeling of brain fog and allowing individuals to stay mentally sharp and focused throughout the day.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Withania somnifera tinctures that help with brain fog.
- Withanolides: Withanolides are a class of steroidal lactones that help alleviate brain fog by modulating the body's stress response, reducing inflammation, and promoting neuroprotection.
- Withaferin a: Withaferin A, a specific withanolide, helps reduce brain fog by inhibiting the activity of inflammatory enzymes, preventing oxidative stress, and promoting neuronal health.
- Withanoside iv: Withanoside IV, a glycoside withanolide, aids in reducing brain fog by increasing the expression of neurotrophic factors, enhancing cognitive function, and promoting neuronal survival.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ashwagandha used to make tinctures for brain fog.
- Roots: Rich in bioactive compounds like withanolides, which have neuroprotective and nootropic properties.
- Leaves: Contain alkaloids and other compounds that may help improve cognitive function and memory.
- Seeds: Contain withanolides and other bioactive compounds that may help reduce stress and anxiety while promoting mental clarity.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ashwagandha for brain fog.
- Harvest 1 pound of withania somnifera roots and clean them thoroughly with water to remove dirt.
- Chop the roots into small pieces and dry them in a dehydrator at 95 degrees fahrenheit for 8 hours.
- Combine 1 part dried root pieces with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into another glass jar, discard the solids and store the tincture in a cool dark place.
6. Centella asiatica
Asiatic pennywort tinctures helps with brain fog because of its unique ability to improve blood flow to the brain, increasing oxygenation and nutrient delivery to brain cells.
The tincture's active compounds, such as baicalein and brahmic acid, also have potent antioxidant properties, which help to neutralize free radicals that can contribute to cognitive impairment.
Additionally, pennywort has been shown to inhibit inflammation in the brain, reducing oxidative stress and promoting a healthy environment for optimal mental function.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Centella asiatica tinctures that help with brain fog.
- Asiaticoside: This triterpenoid saponin helps with brain fog by enhancing blood flow and oxygenation to the brain, which can improve cognitive function and reduce fatigue.
- Madecassoside: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate brain fog by reducing inflammation in the brain and promoting healthy neural function.
- Madecassolic acid: This phenolic acid has antioxidant properties that may help protect the brain from oxidative stress, which can contribute to brain fog and other cognitive impairments.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of asiatic pennywort used to make tinctures for brain fog.
- Leaves: They are the primary part used for medicinal purposes due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, including triterpenoids and alkaloids.
- Stems: The stems contain triterpenoids and other compounds that contribute to their neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Roots: The roots are another key source of bioactive compounds, including glycosides and alkaloids, which are believed to help alleviate brain fog symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic asiatic pennywort for brain fog.
- Harvest 100g of fresh centella asiatica leaves and flowers at peak potency for optimal medicinal properties.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a single layer at 30c for 24 hours to preserve quality.
- Chop the dried centella asiatica into small pieces and combine with 500ml of 35% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Seal the jar and store it in a cool dark place for 2 to 4 weeks to allow infusion and maceration.
- Strain the tincture through a coffee filter and transfer it to a clean glass bottle for storage and use.
7. Schisandra chinensis
Five flavor berry tinctures helps with brain fog because they contain a blend of herbs that work synergistically to improve cognitive function.
The five flavors, typically including rosemary, ginkgo biloba, bacopa monnieri, ashwagandha, and Schisandra chinensis, each possess unique properties that enhance memory, focus, and mental clarity.
The tincture's adaptogenic herbs help regulate stress hormones, while its antioxidants and vasodilators improve blood flow to the brain, allowing for more efficient communication between neurons and reducing feelings of foggy confusion.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Schisandra chinensis tinctures that help with brain fog.
- Schisantherin a: A lignan compound in Schisandra chinensis, which helps improve cognitive function and reduce brain fog by enhancing the activity of neurotransmitters such as acetylcholine and dopamine.
- Schisandrins: A type of lignan, which has antioxidant properties that protect the brain from oxidative stress and inflammation, contributing to improved mental clarity and reduced brain fog.
- Schisandrigenin: A lignan with neuroprotective properties that may help alleviate brain fog by inhibiting the formation of beta-amyloid plaques, a hallmark of neurodegenerative diseases, and promoting the health of neurons.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of five flavor berry used to make tinctures for brain fog.
- Fruits: They are the most used part of Schisandra chinensis for tinctures due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, particularly schisandrins, which are believed to have neuroprotective effects.
- Barks: They are used in tinctures for brain fog due to their ability to enhance cognitive function and memory, possibly attributed to the presence of lignans and other phenolic compounds.
- Leaves: They are used to make tinctures for brain fog as they contain schisandrins and other bioactive compounds that may help improve cognitive function and reduce oxidative stress.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic five flavor berry for brain fog.
- Harvest 100g of dried schisandra chinensis fruit and clean them thoroughly to remove any debris.
- Combine the cleaned schisandra chinensis with 500ml of 25% ethanol in a clean glass container.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks to allow for maximum extraction.
- Strain the liquid mixture using cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove the solids.
- Store the resulting schisandra chinensis tincture in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid.
8. Eleutherococcus senticosus
Siberian ginseng tinctures helps with brain fog because it increases blood flow to the brain, enhancing mental clarity and focus.
The adaptogenic properties of this herbal remedy help the body cope with stress and fatigue, common underlying causes of brain fog. Additionally, Siberian ginseng has been shown to improve cognitive function by stimulating the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which play a crucial role in attention and memory.
By promoting a sense of mental clarity and alertness, Siberian ginseng tinctures can help individuals overcome brain fog and maintain a sharp mind.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eleutherococcus senticosus tinctures that help with brain fog.
- Eleutherosides: These triterpene saponins help alleviate brain fog by modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, reducing stress responses, and promoting a sense of well-being.
- Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates stimulate the production of cytokines, which play a crucial role in regulating inflammation and immune responses, helping to clear the mind and reduce mental fatigue associated with brain fog.
- Oligosaccharides: These short-chain carbohydrates have a direct impact on the brain by increasing the production of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in attention, memory, and cognitive function, thereby improving mental clarity and reducing brain fog.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of siberian ginseng used to make tinctures for brain fog.
- Roots: They are the primary part used due to their high concentration of eleutherosides, which are believed to have adaptogenic properties that help alleviate brain fog.
- Stems: The stems of the plant are also used in tinctures, as they contain a significant amount of eleutherosides and other bioactive compounds that contribute to its brain fog-reducing effects.
- Leaves: Although less commonly used than roots, leaves are sometimes included in tinctures for their potential adaptogenic and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate brain fog.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic siberian ginseng for brain fog.
- Harvest the roots of the eleutherococcus senticosus plant in the fall season when the plant is mature.
- Dry the harvested roots in a warm dry place for at least 2 weeks to reduce moisture content.
- Chop the dried roots into small pieces using a sharp knife to increase surface area.
- Combine the chopped roots with 80% vodka or high-proof alcohol in a 1:5 ratio by weight.
- Steep the mixture in a glass container for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place.
9. Melissa officinalis
Lemon balm tinctures helps with brain fog because it has a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing feelings of anxiety and stress that can contribute to mental fogginess.
Its natural compounds, such as rosmarinic acid, also improve blood flow to the brain, increasing oxygenation and nutrient delivery to key areas responsible for focus and attention.
Additionally, lemon balm's ability to interact with neurotransmitters like GABA and serotonin helps regulate mood and cognitive function, leading to enhanced mental clarity and reduced brain fog.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis tinctures that help with brain fog.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that helps with brain fog by improving cognitive function and memory due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Volatile oils: A combination of terpenes that help with brain fog by reducing stress and anxiety, promoting relaxation, and improving sleep quality.
- Hesperidin: A flavonoid that helps with brain fog by improving blood flow to the brain, enhancing cognitive function, and reducing inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make tinctures for brain fog.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part for making tinctures due to their high concentration of rosmarinic acid, a compound known for its cognitive-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Flowers: The flowers of Melissa officinalis are also used to make tinctures, as they contain flavonoids and terpenes that contribute to their calming and cognitive-enhancing effects.
- Buds: Some herbalists use the buds of Melissa officinalis in tinctures, as they are believed to have a more potent effect than leaves and flowers due to higher concentrations of bioactive compounds.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for brain fog.
- Harvest melissa flowers and leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated with a sharp knife.
- Dry the harvested melissa material in a single layer in a warm dark room for 2 weeks.
- Chop 100 grams of dried melissa material into small pieces using a sharp knife.
- Steep the chopped melissa in 500 milliliters of 80 proof vodka in a glass jar for 4 weeks.
- Strain the melissa tincture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container discarding the solids.
10. Passiflora incarnata
Maypop tinctures helps with brain fog because of its unique combination of botanical compounds that target cognitive function.
The herb, also known as Passiflora incarnata, contains flavonoids and alkaloids that have a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing mental fatigue and improving focus. Additionally, maypop's antioxidant properties help protect against oxidative stress, which can contribute to brain fog.
As a result, regular use of maypop tincture has been shown to enhance mental clarity, memory, and problem-solving abilities, leaving individuals feeling more focused and mentally refreshed.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata tinctures that help with brain fog.
- Harmane: Harmane is an indole alkaloid that has been shown to possess sedative and anxiolytic properties, helping to alleviate brain fog by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as vitexin and isovitexin, are a class of polyphenolic compounds that have been found to possess neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, leading to improved cognitive function.
- Rotundifuran: Rotundifuran is a sesquiterpene that has been identified in Passiflora incarnata and has been shown to have sedative and anxiolytic effects, which can help to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, leading to improved mental clarity and reduced brain fog.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make tinctures for brain fog.
- Leaves: Used for their sedative and anxiolytic properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of brain fog and anxiety.
- Flowers: Used for their calming and sedative effects, which can aid in reducing stress and promoting relaxation associated with brain fog.
- Roots: Used for their adaptogenic properties, which can help the body adapt to stress and promote overall well-being, potentially alleviating brain fog symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maypop for brain fog.
- Harvest 1 to 2 pounds of fresh passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves on a sunny day in full bloom.
- Wash the harvested plant material thoroughly with distilled water to remove dirt and debris.
- Chop the cleaned plant material into small pieces to increase the surface area for extraction.
- Combine the chopped plant material with 80 to 100 proof vodka in a 1:5 ratio by weight and let it steep for 2 to 6 weeks in a well-sealed glass container.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container and discard the solids.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for brain fog?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with brain fog is a blend of Bacopa Monnieri, Ginkgo Biloba, and Acetyl-L-Carnitine.
Bacopa Monnieri enhances memory and cognitive function, while Ginkgo Biloba improves blood flow to the brain, boosting oxygenation and clarity. Acetyl-L-Carnitine supports the health of neurons, promoting mental clarity and focus. These three tinctures work synergistically to alleviate brain fog, improve concentration, and enhance mental acuity, providing a natural and effective solution for individuals struggling with mental fogginess.
Regular use can lead to noticeable improvements in cognitive function.
What ailments similar to brain fog are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to brain fog that are treated with herbal tinctures are chronic fatigue syndrome, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and memory loss.
Herbal remedies such as Ginkgo biloba, Bacopa monnieri, Rhodiola rosea, Ashwagandha, and St. John's Wort are often used to improve cognitive function, boost energy levels, and promote a sense of clarity and mental well-being.
These herbal tinctures may help alleviate symptoms by enhancing memory and concentration, reducing stress and anxiety, and promoting relaxation.