Although some memory pills may be advertised as promising or praised anecdotally, they are not yet well-enough investigated. Although they are available, no such pills have yet been approved by the FDA as intelligence or memory boosters. Most of these supplements are untested (by many researchers) and unproved (scientifically). (Shenk, 2000)

If you are considering trying a memory pill, be sure to consult with your doctor first.

DHEA

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a natural hormone produced mostly by the adrenal glands and also by the gonads. DHEA production increases during childhood and peaks at 20-25 years of age, then decreases. No one is sure why so little DHEA is produced in aged adults. DHEA is an antioxidant . It reduces fatigue, improves the ability to exercise, aids in losing weight, and protects against heart attacks. In addition, DHEA has been shown to improve cognitive functioning.

Those taking a DHEA supplement of 25 mg per day usually do so in the morning, since that follows the natural circadian rhythm for release of DHEA. (Kurland & Lupoff, 1999, p. 111-112)

Coenzyme Q-10

This is also an antioxidant. Found naturally in heart and muscles, it is used by all cells to produce ATP, acting as a catalyst to convert fats and carbohydrates into energy. It works with Vitamin E to destroy free radicals.

Ginkgo Biloba

Chinese herbalists have been treating memory problems with ginkgo biloba tree leaves for over four thousand years. Ginkgo biloba extract can have many beneficial effects on the body. It can improve blood circulation, make blood vessels more flexible, prevent blood clots, and improve a nerve cell's ability to use oxygen. It is also an antioxidant.

Experiments have proven ginkgo biloba helpful in treating several types of dementia, including Alzheimer's. A common dosage for Alzheimer's patients or mild to moderate dementia is to start off with a total of 240 mg a day, reduced to 120 mg after six months. 120 mg a day is the recommended starting dosage for those whose memory loss is not as severe. Although it takes about a month to see effects, a few people may have upset stomach or headaches as side effects of ginkgo biloba. (Kurland and Lupoff, 1999, p. 110-111)

Studies to evaluate the effects of taking ginkgo biloba showed that 120-240 mg increases the alpha-wave brainwave activity and depresses the theta-wave activity. This alteration begins about soon after taking the pills. It peaks about 2-3 hours later, but the effects continue for one or two days. Despite this promising research, the FDA does not evaluate such food or extract intended to aid general life conditions, such as this one. They may not work as promised. (Brown, 2000.p.32)

Brahmi

An herb called brahmi (Bacopa monniera) has been used for many centuries by Indian doctors to improve thinking and memory. It has been used to give babies a head start and to aid students with memorization in religious schools. No optimum dosage has yet been determined. (Kurland and Lupoff, 1999, p. 112)

Warning: Don't Overdose

If you have found a medication or dietary supplement that has helped improve your memory, don't think that an increased dosage will improve it even more. Often, too much can be harmful.

Some substances that sellers have claimed to have the ability to improve cognitive abilities include: (Kurland and Lupoff, 1999, p. 112-113)

Piracetum Hydergine Centrophenoxine Vasopressin DMAE (2-Dimethylaminoethanol)

ginseng glutathione arginine taurine germanium

N-acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) GABA inositol phosphatidylserine (PS) (Crook & Adderly 1998)

Despite the book's humorous title, Michael Kurland and Richard Lupoff's "Complete Idiot's Guide to Improving Your Memory" provides specific valuable information about nutritional and supplemental effects on memory along with their exercises and techniques for memory improvement.