Enhance and Maintain Creativity

When I first began working in the natural products industry I was working part-time in the supplement department at a health food store called “Talley’s Green Grocery.” This is where my use of supplements started. I had always thought my brain was a little sluggish when it came to being focused and having clarity.  I was introduced to a product sold in Talley’s called Ginkgo-Gotu Kola by Eclectic Institute. This is a combination of two herbs, Ginkgo and Gotu Kola, used traditionally to improve brain function. I had a quick results. The noticeable result was improved mental alertness and focus. The action of that product was that it improved blood flow to my brain.

In a previous blog I wrote here, I talked about the brain-gut connection; how both can influence each other. In order for the brain to function optimally, you must learn how to manage stress and take care of the gut by eating properly. Beyond this, for the beautiful creative humans, there are some supplements you can take that may help boost and maintain creativity. The brain needs oxygen and nutrients to help it work optimally. Oxygen and nutrients are delivered to the brain via blood circulation. If blood flow to the brain is sluggish, then adequate amounts of oxygen and nutrients may not reach the brain. The result experienced may be sluggish creativity.

Herbs are my go to supplements for improving blood flow to the brain, such as Ginkgo. Ginkgo is an herb that is known to help improve blood flow in the body, especially to the brain. But it’s not for long term use. Traditionally Ginkgo has been used for brief periods, like three months at a time, to enhance mental alertness and focus. The reason behind this is that the body can become used to the action of an herb, thus suffocating the benefits. They just stop working.

An herb that works like Ginkgo, and has been shown to produce consistent benefits with long term use, is Bacopa. This herb too helps improve blood flow to the brain. Bacopa has also been shown to help people retain information better and help with short term memory. Another product beneficial for improving blood flow to the brain is Vinpocetine.

There are three products that I think are optimal choices to help with maintaining and enhancing creativity.

• The first is called, Mind Care by Himalaya USA. The primary ingredient in the formula is Bacopa. In addition to Bacopa is a blend of other herbs that make the formula complete and compliment Bacopa nicely.

• Better Brain by Garden of Life is another winner. Not only does the product contain Bacopa, it also contains Vinpocetine, omega-3 fatty acids, and B vitamins.

• Another exceptional brain booster for short term use is the one I stared out with; Ginkgo-Gotu Kola by Eclectic Institute. There are many other choices out there besides the ones mentioned. You may want to experiment with different formulas until you find one that is perfect for you.

In conclusion, proper nutrition from fresh whole foods is optimal for maintaining creativity. This is why herbs are my go to supplements for brain function. Herbs are food.

Note: if you are using medication that thins the blood, you should consult a pharmacist before using supplements of any kind that improve blood flow.

What do you do to increase creativity? Will you be trying any of the supplements listed above?