Why Chinese Herbs Are Gaining Attention in Alzheimer’s Prevention

What Small Chinese Villages Taught Me About a Clear Mind

When I lived and studied Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in China, I noticed something fascinating: people in small villages practiced simple, everyday habits that quietly strengthened their memory and mental clarity. They didn’t chase the newest wellness trends. They didn’t talk about “biohacking.”
Instead, they lived in a rhythm that naturally supported the brain.

Imagine elderly villagers doing slow Qi Gong movements on a foggy Beijing morning, vendors selling fresh walnuts and sesame at local markets, and older patients chatting calmly in herbal clinics. All of these tiny rituals created an atmosphere where the mind stayed bright well into old age.

Today I’ll walk you through how you can support memory and focus using the wisdom of TCM—adapted to modern life.

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How TCM Looks at Memory, Focus, and Mental Clarity

Understanding Qi, Jing, and Shen

In TCM, brain performance isn’t viewed as an isolated function. It’s influenced by three key energies:

• Qi – your daily vitality, movement, and circulation
• Jing – your deeper “core reserves,” similar to long-term energy
• Shen – your mental clarity, emotional balance, and consciousness

When these three work in harmony, the mind feels clear and grounded.

Why Balance Matters for Brain Performance

TCM teaches that when Qi slows down, thoughts feel sluggish.
When Jing weakens, memory becomes less steady.
When Shen becomes disturbed, focus scatters.

This isn’t “good or bad”—it’s simply a pattern that can be rebalanced. That’s where herbs, lifestyle habits, and acupressure come in.

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Time-Tested Herbs and Formulas for Supporting Cognitive Function

Ginkgo biloba – opening the “windows” of the mind

Ginkgo (Yin Xing Ye) is well-known worldwide today, but in China it has been appreciated for centuries for supporting circulation—especially around the head. Students and older adults often describe a sense of “fresh air in the mind,” as if a window had been opened after a long day.

You Gui Wan – deep nourishment for internal strength

Whenever someone appears exhausted on a deeper level—lacking energy, feeling mentally “empty,” or experiencing a sense of internal weakness—TCM often looks at supporting Kidney Yang and Jing.
You Gui Wan is traditionally used to rebuild these reserves. People frequently report feeling more stable and grounded, like their inner strength is returning.

Huperzine A – sharpening attention

This herb (Qian Ceng Da) has a long history in China for supporting concentration and short-term memory. Many people who work intensely with their minds notice a gentle “mental sharpening” effect.

Gui Pi Wan – emotional steadiness and mental grounding

When forgetfulness shows up along with worry, restlessness, or trouble focusing, TCM often sees this as a pattern involving the Spleen and Heart. Gui Pi Wan is known for supporting emotional calmness and improving overall clarity. Many people feel more centered and less overwhelmed.

Yuan Zhi – subtle clarity for the heart–mind connection

This herb is used to support a peaceful mind and clear thinking. It works subtly—more like cleaning a dusty window than turning on a spotlight. People often describe it as “quiet clarity.”

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Acupressure Rituals You Can Use Every Day

Herbs are only part of the picture. In China, daily self-massage and acupressure are just as important for keeping the mind in good shape.

Tai Chong (LR3) – releasing mental tension

When thoughts feel cramped or emotions feel stuck, LR3 is like pressing a reset button. It’s on the top of the foot, between the first two bones. Gentle pressure for a few minutes can ease internal tightness.

To see how to massage, watch on our YouTube channel HERE

Shen Shu (BL23) – strengthening your inner battery

Located on the lower back, this point is connected to the Kidney system, which in TCM plays a major role in long-term mental vitality. Massaging this area feels like charging your internal powerbank.

He Gu (LI4) – refreshing the flow of Qi

This point lies between the thumb and index finger. It’s famous for “opening the gates,” improving Qi flow throughout the body, and refreshing the mind.

To see how to massage, watch on our YouTube channel HERE

Why these points matter for mental clarity

Supporting circulation, grounding the body, and soothing emotional tension all contribute to a clearer, more focused mind. That’s the heart of TCM’s approach.

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Brain-Friendly Foods in TCM

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), food isn’t just something you eat to fill your stomach—it’s considered a form of “daily medicine.” Not in the sense of fixing problems instantly, but in the sense of slow, steady nourishment that keeps your body and mind in balance over the long run. Small habits build big results, and what you snack on today can quietly support your mental vitality years from now.

Walnuts – the “mini-brain” snack

You’ve probably noticed that walnuts look a little like tiny brains. In TCM, this symbolic connection is fun, but the real reason walnuts are recommended is because they support the Kidney system, which is linked to mental clarity, long-term memory, and overall vitality.
Many older adults in China keep a small bag of walnuts on hand and eat a few each day. They’re easy to carry, full of healthy fats, and give a gentle, nourishing kind of energy—not the jittery boost you get from sweets or coffee. It’s like feeding your brain with natural fuel.

Black sesame – quiet nourishment in the background

Black sesame doesn’t make a dramatic entrance. It’s more like the quiet friend who always has your back. In TCM, black sesame nourishes blood and Jing, the deep essence that supports long-term strength and resilience.
People who eat it regularly—often mixed with warm porridge or sprinkled over rice—frequently say they feel more grounded, more focused, and less “scattered.” It’s subtle, but over time that slow nourishment adds up. It’s the kind of food that works in the background while you go about your day.

Goji berries – supporting vision and orientation

Goji berries may be small, but in TCM they’re considered little powerhouses. They support the Liver and blood, which are connected to clear vision—not just eyesight, but the sense of orientation and the ability to stay mentally “on track.”
A spoonful of goji berries tossed into tea, soup, or oatmeal adds a gentle sweetness and a bit of steady energy. Many people describe feeling more alert without feeling overstimulated.

How daily food choices shape long-term mental vitality

Of course, no single food can stop aging or replace healthy habits. But when you consistently choose nourishing foods—especially ones valued for centuries—you give your mind a stronger foundation.
Think of it like maintaining a garden: you don’t wait until the plants wilt; you water them a little every day. The same goes for your brain. With the right foods, taken regularly and mindfully, you support mental clarity, balanced energy, and a calmer, more focused way of living.

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Real Stories From Practice

Case 1: A calmer, clearer mind at 68

A woman came to me describing “mental fog.” With Gui Pi Wan, daily Shen Shu and He Gu acupressure, plus walnuts and sesame in her diet, she noticed clearer thinking within a few months.

Case 2: Rediscovering energy and focus at 72

A man dealing with short-term forgetfulness benefited from Ginkgo, You Gui Wan, and daily outdoor Tai Chi. His energy lifted, and he regained sharper recall.

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Glimpses of China: What Daily Life Reveals

Tai Chi mornings with seniors

Every morning in Hangzhou, seniors gathered in parks to practice slow, grounding movements. It wasn’t an event—it was part of life.

Street markets full of natural brain-supporting foods

Fresh walnuts, sesame pastes, herbal blends—these foods were sold casually as everyday snacks rather than special supplements.

Clinics that blend ritual, diet, and mindful living

Doctors often recommended simple herbs, gentle massage, and steady daily habits—nothing dramatic, just consistent.

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Scientific Notes

Research observations on Ginkgo biloba

Some scientific studies explore how Ginkgo supports cognitive function in older adults (PMID: 25144885).

Findings on Huperzine A

Research also examines how Huperzine A may influence memory performance (PMID: 15996610).

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Conclusion: The Quiet Art of Caring for the Mind

What I learned in China is simple: supporting the brain doesn’t require drastic changes. It’s about rhythm, nourishment, and small habits repeated daily.
TCM approaches the mind like a garden—care for the soil, the roots, the flow of water, and the blossoms will take care of themselves.

The real treasure? These practices are gentle, accessible, and easy to adapt anywhere in the world.

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FAQs

1. How often can I use acupressure points like Shen Shu or He Gu?
Daily, for about 5 minutes each, is a comfortable rhythm for most people.

2. Do foods like walnuts and sesame really make a difference?
In TCM, long-term nourishment plays a key role in supporting mental vitality.

3. Can different TCM formulas be combined?
Many people use combinations, but it’s best to ask a qualified TCM practitioner before choosing.

4. How soon do people notice changes after starting these habits?
Some feel subtle shifts within weeks, while others notice more gradual improvement.

5. Are these practices difficult to learn?
Not at all—most are gentle daily rituals that anyone can learn.

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A recommended book is “Evidence-based Clinical Chinese Medicine – Volume 8: Alzheimer’s Disease” and you can buy it on Amazon HERE

Another recommended book is “The End of Alzheimer’s: The First Program to Prevent and Reverse Cognitive Decline” , which you can also purchase on Amazon HERE

Where can I buy it?
If you’re looking for authentic, practitioner-recommended, high-quality Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) formulas — available globally — we recommend the following herbal products. These time-tested formulas are crafted with the finest ingredients and are widely used to support emotional balance, digestion, energy, and overall wellness.

FYI: This post contains affiliate links to herbs we’ve actually tried from reliable, certified sellers. If you buy through them, you’re supporting our blog. Thanks! 🙏

Top Recommended High-Quality Herbal Formulas:

Before you decide to buy, check the detailed description and reviews in several stores to see if this product is right for you!

1. Jia Wei Xiao Yao Wan
   An emotional & digestive support champion. It helps release stress
   👉 [Buy on Amazon – Here]
   👉 [Buy on Ebay– Here]
2.  Ginko Biloba
   supporting circulation—especially around the head
   👉 [Buy on Amazon – Here]
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3. Gui Pi wan
   boosts Spleen and Heart Qi, supporting overall energy.
   👉 [Buy on Amazon –Here ]
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4. Chai hu shu gan wan or Shu gan wan
   A favorite for chronic stress patterns.
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5. Huperzine A
   Supporting concentration and short-term memory.
   👉 [Buy on Amazon –Here ]
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6. You Gui wan or Jing gui shen qi wan
   Feeling mentally “empty,” or experiencing a sense of internal weakness
   👉 [Buy on Amazon –Here ]
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7. Go ji
   They support the Liver and blood
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   👉 [Buy on IHerb– Here]
8. Yuan Zhi
   Support a peaceful mind and clear thinking
   👉 [Buy on Amazon –Here ]
   👉 [Buy on IHerb – Here]
   

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These formulas are based on ancient herbal wisdom and are used by TCM practitioners worldwide. Be sure to consult a professional for personalized advice.

🎁 Get 5% OFF with this code:

Use promo code TCMHEAL5 at checkout to receive an exclusive 5% discount—only at Arcana Herbs Shop.

At Arcana Herbs Shop (Chicago – Chinatown), every formula is handcrafted with care, using time-honored traditions and natural ingredients. You can also order herbs( HERE)

Want more tips? Discover how Traditional Chinese Medicine can naturally support emotional balance in Ask a TCM Doctor archive.

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