A Cognition & Longevity Expert Says This Is The Best Herb For Brain Health

What does a health and science journalist eat in a day? Well, Max Lugavere is quick to celebrate all sorts of nutritious staples (find his favorites here!), but no matter what foods you're eating, he recommends chucking some healthy herbs and spices into the mix. "Generally, any chance you get to use [them] in the kitchen, it's definitely an opportunity worth seizing," he notes on the mindbodygreen podcast. 

According to Lugavere, rosemary (and parsley, for what it's worth) is a very concentrated source of polyphenols. "That's why herbs tend to have very strong bitter flavors, due to these organic compounds that are beneficial to health," he notes. 

The flavonoid apigenin, for example, has been shown to strengthen synaptic connections in the brain1, or the way neurons communicate with one another. Perhaps that's why rosemary has been found to support memory, promote clarity, and enhance mental performance. Researchers believe this is also because a compound in rosemary inhibits the breakdown of neurotransmitters2 responsible for encoding memories3 in the brain.

Given rosemary's impressive brain-healthy benefits, it's no wonder Lugavere incorporates the aromatic herb into his daily meals. Feel free to sprinkle it onto your meats and veggies, or if you're in need of some recipe inspiration, check out our omelet with herbes de Provence, butternut squash pancakes, or our grapefruit- and rosemary-infused water for a refreshing sip. 

Not to mention, omega-3s are essential for brain health as well (and Americans on average are not getting as much as they should).* Specifically, omega-3s are important for pathways that contribute to synaptic plasticity and memory4, both of which support learning.* Diets high in these fats are also associated with healthy cognitive function5. And in terms of emotional well-being, omega-3s can also support the body's ability to respond to and cope with feelings of stress6.*