Other names for Brain
bovine brain
brain
brain extract
brain gland abgland bovine
brain, powder
brain; powder, raw
brain tissue
bulbinum extract
grassfed brain
lamb brain
lamb brain concentrate
new zealand bovine brain
pig (sus scrofa) brain
porcine brain
porcine brain pmg extract
porcine cns aqueous extract
porcine (sus scrofa) brain
raw brain
raw brain concentrate
Synopsis of Brain
History
Throughout history, brain tissue—often from animals—has been recognized as a valuable ingredient in traditional medicinal practices, particularly in European, Asian, and Middle Eastern cultures. Revered for its nutrient density, brain has been utilized as both a food and a remedy, believed to impart vitality, mental acuity, and balance to those who consumed it. Ancient physicians, such as those in Greek and Ayurvedic traditions, prescribed brain as a restorative tonic to support nervous system health, enhance memory, and treat neurological conditions. In medieval Europe, brain was sometimes recommended for epilepsy or “falling sickness,” often prepared in broths or combined with herbs like sage or rosemary to synergize cognitive benefits.
In traditional Chinese medicine, animal brain was included in formulas to nourish Yin and tonify the essence (jing), supporting overall brain function and longevity. Such remedies were thought to convey the “like nourishes like” philosophy, where consuming organ meats would strengthen the corresponding organs in the body. Herbal combinations frequently paired brain with adaptogenic and calming botanicals—such as ginseng, ashwagandha, or licorice—to amplify its restorative effects and promote mental clarity.
Modern nutritional products occasionally feature brain extracts for their potential to deliver essential fats, phospholipids, and neurotrophic factors. When formulated thoughtfully with supportive herbs, these products aim to optimize cognitive performance and support overall neurological health. The historical use of brain as a medicinal ingredient underscores its positive reputation as a natural, nutrient-rich resource for promoting wellbeing, especially when integrated into holistic herbal traditions.
Traditional and scientific validation
Brain, often sourced from cattle, pigs, or sheep, has been utilized as a nutritional ingredient in various traditional cuisines and health supplements. Historically, brain was prized in many cultures for its perceived ability to impart mental vigor and cognitive resilience. Ancient medical systems, such as Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda, valued organ meats, including brain, as potent sources of "essence" believed to support the corresponding organ in the human body.
Scientifically, brain is rich in nutrients essential for neurological health, including phospholipids, omega-3 fatty acids like DHA, B vitamins, and minerals such as selenium and copper. DHA, in particular, is a crucial component of neuronal membranes and is vital for cognitive function. While direct clinical studies investigating the effects of consuming animal brain on human cognitive performance or neurological health are limited, the nutritional profile of brain supports its potential value as a dietary source of nutrients often found deficient in modern diets.
Recent research highlights the importance of dietary phospholipids and omega-3s for brain development and maintenance, and animal studies suggest that organ meats may contribute to improved cognitive outcomes. Nonetheless, more rigorous clinical trials are needed to establish specific health benefits and to ensure safety, especially given concerns about transmissible diseases. Overall, brain remains a nutritionally dense food that can contribute valuable nutrients, particularly in the context of a balanced diet.
Brain is used for these health conditions
Thinking (cloudy) (Scientific)
Brain is used to support these body systems
Brain (Scientific)
