Cognition is the ability to think, learn and remember, thus forming the basis for an individuals capacity for perception, reasoning, acts of creativity, problem-solving and possibly intuition. Cognitive health concerns are not new, yet only recently are botanicals rising to the top due to new and exciting research. In most cases, botanicals have been used for thousands of years by indigenous people, and now modern medicine is proving their safety and efficacy.

When looking to formulate for success regarding improved focus, concentration and cognitive health, understanding the underlying physiology of cognitive health can be helpful.

Five neurotransmitters play a role in cognitive health: norepinephrine, dopamine, acetylcholine, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and serotonin. Norepinephrine and dopamine are linked to cognitive and working memory, while acetylcholine is involved in learning and short-term memory. GABA is supportive by playing a role in calming stress-related cognitive problems, and serotonin supports learning and memory.

Positively impacting neurotransmitters is important, but so are botanicals which can provide neuroprotective benefits—often through the antioxidant effects of the plant. In terms of cognitive health, botanicals provide neuroprotective benefits through their phytochemical substances, such as fatty acids, phenols, alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, terpenes and more.

One of the blessings of botanicals versus other natural ingredients is they often possess multiple phytochemicals and nutritional compounds, which allows botanicals to support the body in numerous areas. The scientific community has identified a handful of compelling botanicals with possible mechanisms of action for cognitive health.