Natural Herbs for Focus & Concentration: A Comprehensive Guide

If you need to focus on studying for a big test or concentrate on a work project, you don't have to take Adderall or Provigil to help you focus. The ingestion or just the aroma of certain natural herbs can help improve concentration, memory and overall mental performance. Herbs may even be able to help people with attention deficit disorder.

Ginseng

• According to National Library of Medicine, "several studies report that ginseng may modestly improve thinking or learning" in both healthy young people and older people with health problems. Siberian ginseng, known as Eleuthero, may increase concentration and focus as well, and American ginseng may also help treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children, though there is not yet enough evidence to support this claim.

Rosemary

• Most often used in cooking, rosemary can also be used in aromatherapy. Known as the herb of remembrance, inhaling the scent of rosemary may improve memory, concentration and mental clarity. Rosemary may also help the body battle fatigue and support the circulatory system, which can also boost concentration.

Gotu Kola

• Found in India and Africa, Gota kola has been widely used in Eastern medicine to rejuvenate brain cells and help with concentration, memory and mental performance. Also known as Indian pennywort or water pennywort, this herb can help relieve anxiety and stress which helps to boost concentration. Gota kola could possiblly help people suffering from attention deficit disorder as well.

Ginkgo

• The phytochemicals found in ginkgo help increase blood flow to the brain. According to the National Library of Medicine, "there is promising early evidence favoring the use of ginkgo for memory enhancement in healthy subjects." Gingko is already used in treatments for people suffering from Alzheimer's disease and cerebral insufficiency which is marked by impaired concentration, confusion, anxiety and fatigue.