SUPPORTING BRAIN FUNCTION
How Botanicals, Fungi & Amino Acids Can Support Brain Function
In recent years, there has been growing interest in the role of botanicals & fungi in supporting brain health in a number of ways. These plant-based compounds are believed to enhance memory, alleviate stress, sharpen focus, and even protect cognitive function while supporting neuro-plasticity.. However, what exactly are these ingredients, and how do they impact brain function? Let’s explore further.
What Are Botanicals?
Botanicals refer to plants or parts of plants that are valued for their therapeutic properties in herbal medicine. These can include leaves, roots, seeds, and extracts, each of which may possess unique compounds that contribute to brain health.
For centuries, botanicals have been used across various cultures to address a wide range of health concerns, including cognitive function. The active components found in botanicals—such as polyphenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, and terpenes – are frequently researched for their potential to enhance cognitive performance and promote mental well-being. Some botanicals are believed to contain antioxidant properties, which may help protect brain cells from damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, certain botanicals or fungi, such as lion’s mane, may influence neurotransmitter activity & neuro-plasticity, affecting mood, memory and improving concentration.
As research progresses, we gain a clearer understanding of how specific botanicals support brain function, revealing their potential benefits and how they contribute to health.
What Is Fungi?
Fungi are eukaryotic organisms that lack chlorophyll and vascular tissue, living by decomposing and absorbing organic matter. They play a crucial role in nature by breaking down and recycling nutrients from dead plants, and some fungi form symbiotic relationships with plants and animals. Many people mistakenly believe fungi are plants. However, fungi are neither plants nor animals but rather organisms that form their own kingdom of life. The way they feed themselves is different from other organisms: they do not photosynthesize like plants and neither do they ingest their food like animals, Fungi feed on nutrients, such as glucose, carbon, and nitrogen – they are very different! Fungi/ Mushrooms are a rich, low-calorie source of fiber, protein, vitamins and antioxidants.
What are Amino Acids?
Amino acids are known as the “building blocks” of protein. The body uses 20 different amino acids to build proteins, which are classified into 2 different amino acid groups: 9 essential amino acids (EAAs) and 11 nonessential amino acids.
Essential Amino Acids: These cannot be produced by the body, so they must be obtained through diet. The 9 EAAs are histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine.
Nonessential Amino Acids: These can be synthesized by the body. The 11 nonessential amino acids are alanine, arginine, asparagine, aspartic acid, cysteine, glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, proline, serine, and tyrosine.
Beyond their role in protein synthesis, amino acids are crucial for hormone production, neurotransmitter synthesis, and immune function.
Key Blue Toad BRAIN+ Ingredients & Their Effects
The following key ingredients in Blue Toad’s BRAIN+ coffee booster support brain health and overall wellness in many ways, both short term and long term. Blue Toad developed this “coffee booster” with a single goal in mind – boost cognitive function.
- Lion’s Mane: Known for its neuroprotective properties, research indicates that it may stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), which helps brain cells grow and survive.
- Chaga: Provides immune support and protects neurons from oxidative damage, promoting overall brain health.
- Raw Cacao: Raw cacao is rich in nutrients and antioxidants that support brain health. Flavanols improve blood flow, aiding memory and focus, while polyphenols reduce inflammation and protect brain cells. With magnesium essential for a healthy brain and nervous system, raw cacao is a cognitive powerhouse.
- Damiana: Damiana, a wild shrub commonly used as an adaptogen, helps balance stress hormones in the body. Research suggests that it may boost testosterone levels in men and help reduce estrogen in women. Containing the active compound, thymol, damiana stimulates both mind and body, making it a valuable herb for easing anxiety and depression with its uplifting properties.
- Alpha-GPC: L-α-Glycerophosphorylcholine (alpha-GPC, advanced choline compound) is a natural compound found in the brain. It is also an acetylcholine precursor which has been investigated for its potential for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
- Phenylethylamine (PEA): PEA is an organic compound, natural monoamine alkaloid, and trace amine, which acts as a central nervous system stimulant in the human brain – It functions similarly as some mood-enhancing neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, while also boosting their effects.
- Shilajit Trace Mineral Complex: Shilajit is a natural substance found mainly in the Himalayas, formed for centuries by the gradual decomposition of certain plants by the action of microorganisms. It is a potent and very safe dietary supplement, restoring the energetic balance and potentially able to prevent several diseases.
- GABA: An amino acid that functions as the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter for the central nervous system. It encourages relaxation and enhances sleep quality, both essential for optimal cognitive function and stress management.
- Bacopa Monnieri: This herb, traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine, has been shown to improve memory and cognitive function in several studies, potentially due to its antioxidant properties.
- Rhodiola Rosea: Often used as an adaptogen, this plant may help reduce stress and fatigue, thereby enhancing mental clarity and performance under challenging conditions. Together, these botanicals enhance mood, support sustained alertness, and improve mental and physical stamina, making them essential for effective stress management and healthy sleep patterns.
If you are interested in these botanicals and their benefits, check out our products HERE.
Research Studies on Botanicals & Fungi
Bacopa Monnieri
Damiana
https://www.uwlax.edu/globalassets/offices-services/urc/jur-online/pdf/2000/helmrick_and_reiser.pdf
Rhodiola Rosea
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9228580/
GABA
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7527439/
Shilajit
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3296184/
Phenylethylamine (PEA)
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8430604/
Cacao
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8470865/
Chaga
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38116085/
Lion’s Mane
https://www.uq.edu.au/news/article/2023/02/mushrooms-magnify-memory-boosting-nerve-growth-0
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