In addition to recognizing the effect of overall physical health on the thinking processes, some supplements appear particularly likely to be of value in maintaining or enhancing mental function. Three such supplements are featured here: Ginkgo (Ginkgo bilboa), Vinpocetine (vincamine), and DMAE (DMAE Bitartrate).

Many other supplements have been recommended, and omission from this page is not intended to imply that others are without merit. Online resources such as The Natural Pharmacy Heatlh Encyclopedia are available for information about herbal supplements not included here.

Research studies.    The Council for Responsible Nutrition in a 2002 report cited Ginkgo bilboa for memory enhancement as one of the most widely accepted uses of botanicals. A variety of studies are cited in The Natural Pharmacy Health Encyclopedia (click Herbs & Supplements, then scroll down to Ginkgo) with a general consensus of support for use of this supplement with severe impaired function (Alzheimer's disease ) and with ordinary age-related memory loss. Improvement in mental function was also reported in studies involving memory function in younger people (ages 19-24).

Target Symptoms and Dosage.    Age-related cognitive decline is the primary target symptom relevant here, but this supplement has been suggested for use with a variety of symptoms, including impotence, sexual dysfunction from use of antidepressant drugs, diabetic complications, macular degeneration, and tinnitus. A dosage of 40-80 mg, 3 times per day appears standard, with higher dosage levels used in some studies involving severe cognitive impairement.

Side Effects and Contraindications.    Significant side effects with this supplement are rare. A very small percentage of users have reported mild headaches and mild upset stomach. However, because of the possibility of blood-thinning effect, caution is warranted if taken along other substances (e.g. aspirin or prescrbed medication) used to obtain a blood-thinning outcome. Safety with young children has not been established.

Research studies.   Vinpocetine is a chemical derived from vincamine, found in the leaves of the periwinkle plant and in other natural sources. Studies reported in The Natural Pharmacy Health Encyclopedia (click Herbs & Supplements, then scoll down to Vinpocentine) suggest benefit with mild to moderate cognitive dysfunction, although the underlying cause of the benefit is uncertain. A number of studies are reported by Ray Sahelian, M.D. which also support use of vinpocetine for enhanced mental function.

Target Symptoms and Dosage.   The primary target symptoms is age-related memory loss. A typical dosage is 10 mg, three times per day.

Side Effects and Contraindications.    No serious side effects have been reported from clinical trials. A contraindication for patients who are taking prescribed medications such as Coumadin has been suggested. Safety with young children has not been established.

Research studies.   DMAE (also known as deanol) is a chemical which has been suggested for use with several conditions affecting the central nervous system (bitartrate is is the salt form of DMAE). This supplement may increase levels of the brain neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Studies reported by Dr. Sahelian were not supportive of this supplement's value when used with the severe memory impairments of Alzheimer's disease. But, in persons with age-related memory decline, there have been positive reports related to general cognitive function even though improved memory was not evident.

Some interesting information about this supplement in regard to ADHD symptoms is reported in The Natural Pharmacy Health Encyclopedia (click Herbs & Supplements, then scroll down to DMAE). Studies, apparently conducted in the 1970s, showed positive outcome of this supplement in children diagnosed with the hyperkenesia and with unspecified learning disability (conditions which would be probably identified as ADHD and ADD, respectively, using current terminology). These results are intriguing, in part because follow-up studies could not be located, and because there have been some more recent recommendations to use fish oil supplements for help with ADHD symptoms (DMAE is an ingredient in some fish). It would, though, be premature at this time to suggest DMAE as an alternative ADHD treatment for reasons including the lack of followup confirmation, and question about safety with young children.

Target Symptoms and Dosage.    The target symptom for use of this supplement is general cognitive function. Manufacturers' recommended dosages and the dosage used in clinical studies varies between 400 and 1,800 mg daily. Clinical studies of DMAE suggest that the supplement is relatively nontoxic. Research subjects have used up to 1,600 mg per day with no reports of side effects.

Side Effects and Contraindications.   Clinical studies of DMAE suggest that the supplement is relatively nontoxic. Side effects in a study with Alzheimer’s disease patients and high dosage included drowsiness and confusion. Particularly lucid dreams and insomnia have also been reported.

A number of substances either in addition to, or instead of, the three cited here are included in proprietary blends prepared by herbal providers and described as enhancing cognitive function. Some examples include: L-phenylalanine and L-Tyrosine (amino acids to increase alertness), Taurine (amino acid suggested to modulate neurotransmitters), Ginseng (plant root suggested to have variety of benefits including enhanced energy, memory, concentration), and Gotu Kola (herb reported to have variety of positive effects, including aid to circulatory system).

A wide variety of names are used to identify the products formulated to enhance mental function. With the blends, convenience and typically lower overall cost are significant advantages. The advantage of geting more ingredients than with separate purchases is, however, a potential disadvantage. You will want to carefully review the ingredients on the label to be sure you are not adding a substance which may be contraindicated in your own personal situation.

The caution in the paragraph above does not mean that such products should be avoided. In fact, purchasing each desired ingredient as a separate product and trying to keep the dosage straight would seem a significant and unnecessary burden.