Anyone use any memory enhancing herbs or drugs ?

[RadiDem]

Now that I'm in my 50's, I can tell that my memory is not as sharp as it used to be. This especially affects me when I am writing or speaking, and the word I want is 'on the tip of my tongue' but I can't think of it.

I did some research on the WWW, and started taking a memory enhancer, Natrol Memory Complex, which has the supposedly important ingredients of Vinpocetine, Huperzine, Ginko, and a bunch of other stuff.

I also take extra Vinpocteine.

Have any of you used similar memory enhancers for the same 'condition' ?

Did they work ?

Thanks !

Maybe it was way too much partying in my younger years !

[jedicord]

1. Yeah, but I forgot what they're called...

[ima_sinnic]

2. having the same problems as you (at 58) and taking gingko

--but not really seeing any effect.
I have heard that working crossword puzzles is supposed to be one of the best exercises for keeping the mind sharp--I do do lots of them and I think it does help.

[DS1]

3. Tried Ginko, it cut about 90% off my temper fuse in 2 days

Stopped taking it before I did something permanent to someone/something :scared:

[ironflange]

4. I've been taking ginkgo for a few months

I have been seeing some signs of improvement, memory-wise.

[amazona]

5. they don't work

With Alzheimer's in the family I've tried them all. They don't work. Most do nothing except pick your pocket. Vasopressin (an inhaled drug, supposedly Rx) can give you a quick burst of intellectual energy and allow you to work very fast for a short while but it does nothing long term. Considering the cost and the legal issues, I no longer use it. Gingko, Gota Kola and the rest...I think they only "work" if you don't have any real problem to begin with.

Make sure that your age-related memory decline is just that and NOT a vitamin B-12 deficiency (pernicious anemia). After age 40, some people can't get B-12 from food. In theory, a true vegan would not be consuming any B-12 at all, but even meat-eaters are at risk after 40. If you have pernicious anemia, you can stop the decline of your memory with B-12 injections but you can't get back what you already lost. So get tested immediately if you are having memory issues. A friend's father had pernicious anemia and lost quite a lot of his mental ability before it was properly diagnosed.