The "Trying To Boost My Brain Health" Story

It was an ordinary day.  Wearing my facial mask that I have worn for what seems like a lifetime in order to keep out the COVID virus.  But, this time I have a rather unusual reason for wearing the mask.  My wife has placed a piece of rosemary inside the mask to see if I can stand inhaling the odor of the rosemary branch.  As I have aged, I have noticed that I have more trouble remembering things that I had no trouble with 10 or maybe even 5 years ago.  Where did I put the evening paper?  Where did I put my cell phone?  Where is my spinal cord stimulator?  How about my car keys?  What do you do to help bring back you memory?  Is there a magic potion or pill that I can swallow that will help me remember better?  Wouldn't that be fantastic?  If I can come up with something I would be a millionaire in no time.  Well, the more I read, the more people are offering remedies for forgetfulness.  But, do they work?  I'm not so sure I believe half the stuff I read...or even any of the stuff I read about what to do to help me remember the things I used to be able to remember.  So, my dear wife has read that Rosemary is known to boost brain health.  If you are not familiar with the herb, Rosemary is a staple in many favorite fall recipes.  The evergreen shrub, which originated in the Mediterranean and sub-Himalayan regions, is used in cooking all over the world.  It can be used fresh or dried and often used as a tea.  In folk medicine, it was commonly used as an herbal remedy for ailments like headaches, depression and mental and physical fatigue.  Studies have found that rosemary and its compounds have a wide range of medicinal properties such as anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective.  And, trials on mice show that rosemary compounds can produce a significant antidepressant effect.  And for those looking for a memory boost, such as me, well...I'm hoping the rosemary that Carol placed in my Covid mask, so I can inhale it for a few hours, might help.  I guess only time will tell!  It was another extraordinary day in the life of an ordinary guy.