Try These 4 Homemade Tonics to Wipe Out Your Brain Fog

Before there were pharmaceuticals, medical specialists made tonics–drink mixtures that were designed to improve your health. Of course, back then, tonics were no doubt often dubious mixtures, but now we have the science to back the effectiveness of herbs as health boosters so we can make our own tonics at home.

These four tonic recipes have ingredients that will help boost your memory, concentration, and focus. Not only will you feel better, but all these tonics are delicious!

Tonic #1: Rosemary Mint Iced Tea

Rosemary is a stimulating, astringent herb that stimulates the nervous system, helping us to concentrate. It increases blood flow to the brain, and stimulates memory and cognitive function. Mint has similar properties and it also adds a refreshing flavor to the tea.

You will need:

• 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
• 7–10 fresh mint leaves
• Lemon
• Honey (optional)

Directions:

1. Bring 4 cups of water to boil in a deep pot.
2. Add rosemary and mint leaves. Boil for 2–5 minutes, or until water darkens.
3. Remove from heat, and let cool 5–10 minutes.
4. Add lemon & honey (to sweeten) if desired.
5. Once it reaches room temperature, transfer to a pitcher.
6. Place in refrigerator for at least 2 hours. Enjoy!

Tonic #2: Ginkgo Leaf Mineral Water

Gingko leaf has been used in Chinese medicine for hundreds of years, as it was known to boost energy and circulation, and stimulate memory, in healthy people and in people who were diagnosed with dementia.

You will need:

• 4 gingko leaves
• 8 oz sparkling water
• Ice cubes
• Liquid stevia (optional)

Directions:

1. Bring 2 cups of water to boil in a deep pot.
2. Add gingko leaves. Boil for 2–5 minutes, or until water darkens.
3. Remove from heat, and let cool 5–10 minutes.
4. Divide into 2 large glasses, and add 2 drops of liquid stevia to each if desired.
5. Add ice cubes, and fill glasses with sparkling water. Enjoy!

Tonic #3: Ginseng Ginger Tea

This tonic is perfect if you feel a little foggy, or even if you feel a cold coming on. In addition to rest, this tea may help you get out of the fog.

Ginseng is another age-old herb used in Chinese medicine with many medicinal properties, many of them related to the brain. Lab and human studies have shown that ginseng improves learning, memory and even physical capabilities, which makes it perfect if you need a little extra mental or physical boost.

Ginger has multiple antioxidant properties, reducing inflammation and strengthening the immune system.

You will need:

• 3–5 thin slices ginseng root
• 2 thin slices of ginger root
• Lemon & honey (optional)

Directions:

1. Bring 2 cups of water to boil in a deep pot.
2. Add ginseng and ginger. Boil for 2–5 minutes, or until water darkens.
3. Remove from heat, and let cool until it reaches your desired temperature.
4. Add lemon & honey if desired. Enjoy!

Tonic #4: French Press Yerba Mate

Yerba mate is a traditional southern South American hot drink (sometimes referred to as a tea) that has antioxidant phenolic compounds and natural caffeine, which helps stimulate the brain to clear up brain fog. While traditional yerba mate is made in a special mug, you can make yerba mate using a French press.

You will need:

• 2 tbsp yerba mate
• 16 oz water, almost boiling

Directions:

1. Put yerba mate in the French press.
2. Pour water over the yerba mate and let steep for 3–5 minutes.
3. Press down on the French press.
4. Serve, and add sweetener if desired. Enjoy!

If you feel like you need a little boost to clear your mind and help you concentrate, don’t turn to commercial energy drinks or soft drinks. You can make your own brain-stimulating tonics at home, which, in addition to improving memory, concentration, and cognitive function, also provide other health-boosting properties.