You are here: Q&A->
Page 25->Exam nerves and concentration
Exam nerves and concentration
I am 24 and about to start the final year of my degree course. I would like to know what supplements I can take to boost my memory for exams and also calm my nerves.
The herb that has been used to boost exam-time performance among Russian University students is Rhodiola, which is becoming much better known here. Not only can this herb help improve both your short and long-term memory, it can increase stamina, energy levels and help you stay calm since it also work to disable the enzyme that would otherwise break down serotonin, one of the brain’s mood-boosting chemicals.
This makes rhodiola an excellent alternative to the anti-depressant alternative St John’s Wort which is no longer for sale over the counter if you live in Southern Ireland and which is contraindicated if you have been taking the contraceptive pill for any length of time and if you are taking any other prescription medication, especially warfarin. To help you through your final year, take 50mg of rhodiola, twice a day and step this dosage up to 100mg, three times a day in the run-up to and during exam time.
Lots of students were big fans of the herbal calming agent Kava Kava which has now been withdrawn from sale in this country following reports of liver toxicity. I have found a very good alternative from New Zealand called KawaKawa.(I know the name is similar but they are not the same plant.)
Early settlers used KawaKawa as a sustaining and uplifting tonic and it is newly-available in the UK in tincture form as part of the excellent Kiwi Herbs range from the New Zealand Natural Food Company. It costs £7.20 for 50ml and, along with rhodiola, is available from the Nutricentre on 0800-587 2290.
Phosphatidyl serine is a natural substance that has been studied for its beneficial effects on poor memory, while guarana has been taken traditionally for its energy boosting properties and is increasingly being used as a natural aid to maintain vitality. Phosphatidyl serine is one of the most extensively researched nutrients for human cognition. Health Perception's Cognito Energy tablets contain Guarana, Phosphatidyl Serine, Vitamin C, and Phosphatidyl Choline. Phone 01252 861454 for ordering and information.