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Nearly two and a half billion years ago, photosynthetic ocean microbes
called cyanobacteria permanently altered the planet, suffusing the
atmosphere with oxygen, imbuing the sky with its familiar blue hue, and
initiating the formation of the ozone layer, which protected new waves of
life from harmful exposure to ultraviolet radiation.
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Or can they? We might put pressure on this idea by considering the case of Krista and Tatiana Hogan, the Canadian craniopagus twins who are fused at the skull. In everyday interactions, the Hogan girls reveal an incredible amount of mental interconnectedness. In fact, at times, Krista and Tatiana appear to be sharing their sensory experiences with one another. When they were babies, putting a pacifier in one twin’s mouth could stop the other twin from crying, and one twin would show signs of feeling pain when the other was pricked by a needle for a blood draw. This connection has not seemed to lessen as they’ve grown. If their mother holds an object in front of one twin’s eyes while the other’s eyes are closed, the second twin can then report various facts about the object: what kind of toy animal it is, what its colour is, and so on. If one twin is touched on the leg or arm or face while the other twin’s eyes are closed, the twin with closed eyes can report where her sister was being touched.
This fascinating case raises broader questions about whether technology may one day allow for some kind of mind meld along the lines envisioned in the TV show Star Trek or for some other way for consciousness to be merged across different individuals. But, speculations about future technology aside, it remains true that as a general matter our conscious experiences are private to us.
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The ancient Himalayan region is home to a diverse range of flora, some of which have been traditionally used for their medicinal properties. Among these plants, there is growing interest in the rediscovery of certain ancient herbs believed to have cognitive enhancement properties. These plants, used in traditional medicine for centuries, are now being studied for their potential to boost memory, focus, and overall cognitive function.
1. Bacopa Monnieri (Brahmi):
- Traditional Use: Bacopa Monnieri, also known as Brahmi, has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years. It's renowned for enhancing memory, reducing anxiety, and improving cognitive functions.
- Modern Research: Recent studies have shown that Brahmi can improve memory formation, particularly in older adults, by increasing the production of key neurotransmitters. It also possesses antioxidant properties that protect the brain from oxidative stress.
2. Shilajit:
- Traditional Use: Shilajit is a sticky substance found primarily in the rocks of the Himalayas. It has been used in Ayurveda for over 3,000 years to enhance energy, improve cognition, and promote longevity.
- Modern Research: Shilajit is rich in fulvic acid and minerals, which are believed to protect against cognitive decline. Studies suggest it may help in slowing the progression of Alzheimer's disease and improving memory and cognitive function.
3. Rhodiola Rosea:
- Traditional Use: Rhodiola, also known as the "golden root," has been used in traditional medicine in Himalayan and Arctic regions to combat fatigue, stress, and improve mental performance.
- Modern Research: Rhodiola is an adaptogen, meaning it helps the body resist stressors. Research has shown it can enhance mental clarity, concentration, and memory by regulating cortisol levels and improving neurotransmitter function.
4. Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica):
- Traditional Use: Gotu Kola, another staple of Ayurvedic medicine, is known for its ability to improve memory and cognitive function. It's often referred to as the "herb of longevity" in traditional texts.
- Modern Research: Gotu Kola has been shown to enhance cognitive function, particularly in tasks requiring attention and focus. It may also promote neurogenesis, the growth of new brain cells, which is crucial for long-term brain health.
5. Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera):
- Traditional Use: Ashwagandha is a powerful adaptogen used in Ayurvedic medicine to reduce stress and improve mental clarity.
- Modern Research: Studies have shown that Ashwagandha can significantly reduce stress and anxiety levels, leading to improved cognitive function. It's also believed to enhance memory and protect against neurodegenerative diseases.
The Promise of Cognitive Enhancement:
The interest in these ancient Himalayan plants goes beyond their traditional use. Modern science is beginning to validate their efficacy, leading to a resurgence in their popularity. These plants offer a natural and holistic approach to cognitive enhancement, with fewer side effects compared to synthetic nootropics.
Challenges and Considerations:
Despite the promising potential, there are challenges in bringing these ancient remedies to mainstream use. The effects of these plants can vary based on dosage, individual health conditions, and the quality of the plant extract. Furthermore, more rigorous scientific studies are needed to fully understand their mechanisms and long-term effects.
In conclusion, the rediscovery of these ancient Himalayan plants for cognitive enhancement is a fascinating blend of tradition and modern science. As research continues to uncover their potential, these plants could offer powerful tools for enhancing cognitive health in the modern world.
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BAT Q
The essential privacy of conscious experience poses challenges for understanding others. The challenge is especially deep when it comes to others whose experiences are likely very different from our own. Have you ever been walking through a forest at night and caught a glimpse of a bat seamlessly navigating its way through the darkness? It seems like an impossibly alien thing to do. What would it be like to fly through the night like that? How could you ever figure out what it’s like to be a bat? This is precisely the question asked by Thomas Nagel in a paper published 50 years ago.
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