Periwinkle and Improving Memory

           The mind is a terrible thing to lose!  As we get older, at some point we all have a fear of losing our full mental capacity.  Conditions such as strokes, age related memory loss, dementia, and Alzheimer’s are very real and frightening concerns.

            The common denominator in all the above conditions is decreased blood flow to the brain.  As we get older a number of factors can contribute to narrowing of the blood vessels supplying the brain.  This in turn negatively affects delivery of oxygen and nutrients to brain cells. 

            Fortunately, there are a number of products in the natural armament to enhance circulation to the brain.  Readers might have already thought of the herb gingko biloba which has a great track record for improving blood flow to the brain and for protection against free radicals.  Well, there is a new kid on the block.

            The periwinkle plant has been used extensively in Europe to treat cerebrovascular disorders and cognitive deficits associated with aging.  It is an extract from the periwinkle known as vinpocetin that has the greatest therapeutic effects.

            Vinpocetin has been shown to increase circulation and oxygen utilization in the brain.  This amazing product also increases the brain’s tolerance to diminished blood flow and inhibits abnormal stickiness of the platelets in the blood which affects circulation and could eventually lead to a stroke.  Finally, vinpocetin helps improve circulation by relaxing cerebral vessels. 

            Because vinpocetin markedly improves blood supply to the gray matter of the brain, better memory is observed in people taking this product for just one month.  With longer term usage, other neurological deficits can be lessened or even alleviated.

            If you are concerned about preventing any ischemic disorders that may eventually rob you of your mental capacity or if you would like to reverse some existing symptoms associated with senility, add vinpocetin to your supplement regime.