Concussion

A concussion does not necessarily show visible wounds, yet it should be taken very seriously. The symptoms begin with a short loss of consciousness after injury, followed by strong headaches, typically accompanied by nausea. The longer the loss of consciousness, the more certain that the injury has caused some damage. There is often some disorientation and memory loss. Depending on the severity, headaches, poor concentration, dizziness and fatigue often last for days or months. Symptoms are not always immediately apparent, and if symptoms occur days or more after a head injury, they should be treated just as seriously.

The cause of a concussion is a blunt blow to the head, from a fall, car accident or an assault. The brain, which lies in a cushion of fluid, is knocked against the hard bones of the skull. Seek medical help immediately. Watch the person for a while after the injury for signs of a concussion.

Supplements and herbs

To speed healing and increase oxygen to the brain, and to prevent further damage after a concussion, supplement with antioxidants. Vitamins A, C, E and all the B vitamins, as well as the minerals selenium and zinc, are antioxidants. In addition to stimulating the healing process, vitamin C also enhances the immune system, reduces blood pressure and protects against bruising and blood clotting. Vitamin C should be taken with bioflavonoids to improve its effects. Vitamin E works to repair damaged tissue. When vitamins C and E work together, they have a greater effect than when they are taken separately.
To maintain proper nerve function and help relieve depression and anxiety, the B vitamins are most beneficial. These should be taken in a B complex vitamin for optimal effect.
The mineral selenium helps prevent the formation of free radicals which damage the cells.
Zinc is another antioxidant which is also needed by the body to maintain the proper concentration of vitamin E.

In addition to antioxidants there are a variety of natural supplements that have been proven to be effective in enhancing both short and long term memory. Serine, can be taken as a supplement called lecithin or phosphatidylserine. Studies indicate that a minimum 6 month trial of 10-20 grams of 95% phosphatidylserine may be beneficial in memory enhancement.
Coenzyme Q10 is effective because this natural substance carries oxygen to cells. Both GBE and Coenzyme Q10 have negligible side effects when used as directed.

Research in France and Germany indicates that the herb, ginkgo biloba may be effective in helping many aspects of brain function. Some of its actions include improvement of energy production, an increase in cellular glucose uptake, an increase in blood flow to the brain and an enhancement of the transmission of nerve signals. Ginkgo biloba will help many brain functions, including energy production, blood flow and nerve signal transmission, as well as improving memory loss. Steep the leaf part in 1 cup of hot water for five minutes and drink.

What else you can do

• Never toss a child into the air. The vulnerable neck can snap back and forth and cause a concussion.
• Never punish a child by shaking him or her.
• Wear a helmet for cycling, in-line skating, skiing, playing ball games or riding horses.

How much to take

• Vitamin C, with bioflavonoids, 1,000 mg
• Vitamin A, 25,000 IU (avoid during pregnancy)
• Vitamin E, with mixed tocopherols, 400 IU
• Vitamin B complex, 100 mg
• Selenium, 200 mcg
• Zinc, 5 mg with 3 mg copper
• Lecithin, 10-20 mg
• Phosphatidylserine, 125 mg daily
• Coenzyme Q10, 50 mg daily

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