A Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurvedic herb, turmeric is worth far more its food flavoring abilities alone. Among other benefits, turmeric can combat depression, enhance libido, and improve focus by interacting with serotonin, the brain's reward neurotransmitter.
Research has shown, time and time again, that this TCM and Ayurvedic herb is truly effective. Yet, the most interesting features of turmeric are its anti-inflammatory and BDNF-increasing actions in the brain.
Here's what we mean: turmeric is full of little compounds known as curcuminoids, the most well-studied of which being curcumin.
Research shows that curcumin interacts with brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which is responsible for turning over new cells in your brain. Poor levels of BDNF are typically associated with brain fog, trouble with learning and memory, and even major depression.
Curcumin is also a known anti-oxidant. Anti-oxidants have neuroprotectant effects by reducing inflammation in the brain. According to researchers, inflammation in the brain is often a sign of depression, dementia, and even Alzheimer's.
What's the bottom line on turmeric? If you want to feel better overall, improve your brain's ability to make new cells, and reduce the negative effects of brain inflammation, turmeric is the nootropic for you.