Herbs for Focus

[VisionaryMom]

I've developed some serious (for me) memory/attention/physical energy issues. I've started taking B vitamins, and I have seen huge improvements in my energy levels. While I eat a lot of foods with B vitamins, I still seem to have a deficiency. Now the focus piece is what I'm trying to improve. I sit down to work on something (usually writing), and I don't seem to be able to focus at all. I'm hoping to find an herbal remedy that will help, but I need suggestions! 

[SandyMom]

Have you had your thyroid levels checked? The symptoms you describe, including low b12, can be indicative of hypothyroid. Also maybe look at symptoms of low iron.

The herbs one would consider for your symptoms would depend on what's causing them, I think,

Another possibility might be hormonal imbalances.

You may want to get some blood work done to rule out thyroid, iron, b12, hormones, etc.

Good luck!

[subtlycrunchy]

Here's a good article on fuzzy thinking, memory loss and concentration from Women to Women. In addition to B vitamins, they recommend "that antioxidants and essential fatty acids (EFA’s) likewise support optimal brain function, in part perhaps by reducing inflammation and plaque production along nerve endings. Studies indicate people with ADHD have lower-than-normal blood levels of omega–3 fatty acids, and numerous studies correlate behavioral and cognitive improvement with supplemental omega–3’s, omega–6’s, and vitamin E."

[VisionaryMom]

Originally Posted by SandyMom 

Have you had your thyroid levels checked? The symptoms you describe, including low b12, can be indicative of hypothyroid. Also maybe look at symptoms of low iron.

The herbs one would consider for your symptoms would depend on what's causing them, I think,

Another possibility might be hormonal imbalances.

You may want to get some blood work done to rule out thyroid, iron, b12, hormones, etc.

Good luck!

Years ago, I was treated for an under-active thyroid. When I got pg the second time, it righted itself, though my doctors won't do a full panel. They only do the TSH, though I've requested the whole test. 

My iron is okay when I've had it checked. 

My estrogen level is fine, but my testosterone is actually really high. It's 119, and the top of normal is 82. I've had no luck fixing that, so I'm trying to just fix the symptoms of what's wrong right now so that I'm functional enough to deal with the bigger issues. 
 

[moonmamajess]

Greetings VisionaryMom!

B vitamins are abundant in dark green leafy vegs, whole grains, brown rice, oatmeal, yogurt, kefir, beans, nuts, and seeds. Herbal allys for vitamin B deficiency are comfrey, parsley, dandelion leaves, nettle (my favorite! I love steeping an extra rich nettle infusion!) sesame seeds, seaweeds, and wild oats. Some of the highest sources of Vit. B are nutritional yeast, bee pollen (not sure about the ethical  aspect of this, and my favorite spirulina (fabulous in a smoothie!)

Perhaps there are also some helpful routines you could perform before settling down to write. Maybe a way that you enjoy releasing stress so your mind is clear and able to be creative? Yoga or dance? talking a walk alone in the woods and connecting with nature? Nature is my go-to source for creativity and inspiration. I don't know where you live but for me it can be challenging to get outside during these winter months (especially w/ my 6 mo!) but an extra effort is always worth it in the end! Hope some of this helps, but as always on the internet, take what you need, and leave what you don't!

                                                                              Many blessings, and much love,

                                                                                                                  -Jess