Having trouble remembering where you left your car keys? Forgot to pick up an item at the grocery store? Has the appointment with your doctor that you scheduled last week totally slipped your mind? Weak memory can be quite frustrating in everyday life!

Memory problems are a quite common complaint, especially with increasing age. Various other factors can affect your memory like sleep deprivation, stress, depression, nutritional deficiencies (particularly B vitamins), underactive or overactive thyroid, drinking alcohol, smoking, and use of certain medications.

Dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and other conditions can also cause memory problems along with other symptoms. When dealing with such serious issues, it is best to consult an expert for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Here are some of my top favorites for boosting your memory:

 1.Almonds
Soak 5 to 10 almonds in water overnight. The next morning, peel the skin and grind the almonds.
Boil this paste with one glass of milk. Add some sugar or honey for taste. Drink it daily for 30 or 40 days.

2.Rosemary:
Steep one teaspoon of dried rosemary in a cup of boiling water for about five minutes. If you have fresh rosemary, steep a sprig in a teapot containing hot water for three to five minutes. Strain and add honey to taste, if desired. Drink it daily for a few weeks.You can also breathe in the aroma of rosemary oil or add a few drops of the oil to a room diffuser.

3.Black Seed:
Black seeds (scientific name, Nigella Sativa), also called kalonji, have great mind-sharpening potential, thanks to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuron-protecting properties. Mix a little honey in one-half teaspoon of ground black seeds. Eat it twice daily for at least a few weeks. Alternatively, you can take this herb in supplement form after consulting your doctor.

4.Brahmi:
Consume one to two teaspoons of juice extracted from Brahmi leaves two or three times a day. You can also add a little honey. Alternatively, you can mix one-quarter to one-half teaspoon of Brahmi powder in a cup of warm milk, add a pinch of cardamom and drink it once or twice daily.

6.Fish oil:
Take fish oil supplements, containing at least 600 mg DHA, daily. For proper dosage and suitability, consult your doctor.

 7.Panax Ginseng:
This herbal supplement has been used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for years to make people feel calm and at ease. However, the supplement can also be used to improve thinking, concentration, memory and work efficiency, physical stamina, and even athletic endurance.

8. Indian Gooseberry:
Indian gooseberry, also called amla, is used in Ayurveda to enhance memory power and strengthen the nervous system. Take one to three teaspoons of Anwala churna three times a day for at least a few weeks. Another option is to mix one teaspoon each of Indian gooseberry root powder and white sesame seeds, ground into a powder. Add one teaspoon of honey to this mixture. Eat it once daily for a few days.