Polygala tenuifolia, which is also referred to as Yuan Zhi, is a very interesting plant that produces powerful compounds in its root system. In our opinion, it is one of the most noticeable herbal extracts out there and works for almost anyone who tries it. So what makes Polygala tenuifolia root so special? Unlike most plant extracts which are “uni-taskers” in the sense that they usually have very specific effects, Polygala tenuifolia has a very wide range of effects. Most noticeably, To better understand Polygala tenuifolia and the plethora of powerful effects it can produce, we will now take a deep dive into the fascinating world of Polygala tenuifolia root!
Polygala tenuifolia May Support Neuroplasticity
In the world of natural nootropics, supporting greater levels of neuroplasticity is always a highly sought-after effect. Enhancing neuroplasticity can help boost overall cognitive function and has the ability to bolster brain health. Neuroplasticity is the process by which our brains can change, adapt and grow which is an important process when it comes to many cognitive functions as they are dependant on adequate levels of neuroplasticity. This holds especially true for memory as memories are believed to be stored by physically changing neuron connections and these changes are dependant on neuroplasticity.
Neuroplasticity can also be greatly decreased in some areas of the brain which can lead to issues with low mood. An area of the brain that is particularly prone to this is the hippocampus. Through countless studies, it has been shown that increasing hippocampal neuroplasticity can have a very positive effect on mood. We’ll focus on that in the next section about mood. For now, let’s get back on the topic of cognitive function and neuroplasticity!
There are a few big regulators of neuroplasticity, the two most important ones being nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). By increasing either one of these, neuroplasticity can be significantly increased. This is what makes Polygala tenuifolia such a powerful inducer of neuroplasticity as it increases both the levels of NGF and BDNF! By increasing NGF and BDNF, Polygala tenuifolia can help increase overall brain health and cognitive function. In our opinion, this is what makes Polygala tenuifolia extract one of the best stand-alone natural nootropics!
Polygala tenuifolia May Promote a Positive Mood
As we mentioned in the section above, neuroplasticity is a very important regulator of mood and Polygala tenuifolia appears to be a powerful inducer of neuroplasticity. Low mood has been linked to atrophy in the hippocampus and it has been shown that neuroplasticity enhancers such as Polygala tenuifolia may help reverse hippocampal atrophy. By reversing hippocampal atrophy, these neuroplasticity enhancers have been shown to help promote a positive mood. However, Polygala has some other mood boosting tricks up its sleeve!
Polygala may also help increase levels of key monoamine neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine. Polygala tenuifolia achieves this through its Yuanzhi-1 content which is a unique triterpenoid saponin, that inhibits the reuptake of these monoamine neurotransmitters. These three neurotransmitters each play an important role in maintaining our mood. Thus, in addition to enhancing hippocampal neuroplasticity, Polygala tenuifolia may also help promote a positive mood by enhancing levels of monoamine neurotransmitters in the brain. More importantly, serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine play key roles in motivation and focus, topics we’ll explore in the next section.
Polygala tenuifolia May Help Promote Focus
Staying focused and motivated can be a fairly hard feat sometimes, especially if you are studying a lot. It gently influences serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine levels, enhancing focus, motivation, and energy levels effectively. Students favor Polygala tenuifolia root for swiftly studying large volumes of information due to its effectiveness. Polygala tenuifolia root extract, as a focus and energy booster, stands out for its lack of “jitters,” unlike caffeine’s side effects. In fact, instead of being jittery like caffeine, Polygala tenuifolia is simultaneously calming and stimulating. This allows for optimal levels of focus as it helps clear and calm the mind while also supporting cognitive function.
The blend of calming and stimulating effects makes Polygala tenuifolia one of the top supplements for busy work or school schedules. Polygala tenuifolia may simultaneously help alleviate stress while allowing you to focus on the important work at hand!
Polygala Tenuifolia’s Sleep Support
Anecdotally, Polygala tenuifolia root may support sleep quality, which is notable to us about Polygala tenuifolia. While unexpected for a predominantly stimulating supplement, the calming effects of Polygala tenuifolia persist longer than its stimulating ones. Research indicates that tenuifolin, a bioactive compound in Polygala tenuifolia root, enhances sleep quality. Many believe tenuifolin primarily accounts for the calming effects linked to Polygala tenuifolia root. Tenuifolin’s long-lasting effects may explain why Polygala tenuifolia root anecdotal reports suggest it improves sleep quality.
Sleep deprivation and poor sleep quality significantly impair focus and alertness, as demonstrated in numerous studies. Improving sleep quality with Polygala tenuifolia may boost daytime alertness, enhancing its focus-promoting effects further.
How to Take Polygala tenuifolia
Because of its pleasant taste and low dosage, you can take Polygala tenuifolia extract in various ways. Our accurately dosed 100mg Polygala tenuifolia extract capsules offer the most convenient option. Take one capsule three times daily for optimal effects. For more immediate, and potent effects, Polygala tenuifolia sublingual dosing is a great option. Sublingual dosing of Polygala tenuifolia accelerates absorption, allowing active components to reach target receptors more quickly. Reddit posts suggest that sublingual Polygala tenuifolia dosing is more stimulating and enhances focus, based on user experiences.
Polygala tenuifolia powder dissolves well in water and blends easily into different beverages because of its mild taste. This makes for a convenient way to dose Polygala tenuifolia when you are on the go. Measure Polygala tenuifolia, mix into drink, and take it wherever you go.
