Bacopa Monnieri
What is Bacopa Monnieri?
Bacopa Monnieri, commonly known as Brahmi, is a creeping perennial herb traditionally utilized in Ayurvedic medicine (1)(5). Native to the wetlands of regions including southern and Eastern India, Australia, Europe, Africa, Asia, and both North and South America (5), Bacopa Monnieri has been historically employed to enhance memory, combat insomnia, treat epilepsy, and serve as an anxiolytic (1)(5). Presently, it is also used for conditions like Alzheimer's disease, anxiety, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and inflammation (2)(3)(4).
Clinical Studies
A plethora of clinical research points to the efficacy of Bacopa in ameliorating verbal learning, enhancing delayed word recall, promoting memory acquisition, and reducing anxiety (1). Bacopa Monnieri may offer benefits like mitigating inflammation, alleviating ADHD symptoms, and combatting anxiety and stress (2). In vitro and animal studies suggest that Bacopa Monnieri possesses notable anti-inflammatory capabilities, potentially suppressing pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines (2). While there is evidence supporting Bacopa Monnieri's role in memory enhancement, especially in the short term, and potential mental health benefits, there is inconsistency across tests, scenarios, and populations. This discrepancy makes it challenging to decisively identify its most beneficial applications (4).
Dosage
Depending on the ailment in question and the individual's weight, the dosage for Bacopa Monnieri can vary (1). Generally, the typical oral dosage ranges from 300-450 mg daily (1).
Side Effects
Bacopa Monnieri boasts a high therapeutic index and is typically well-received (1). The primary side effects tend to be gastrointestinal, manifesting as increased stool frequency, abdominal cramps, and nausea (1). These side effects are thought to arise from heightened acetylcholine activity or irritation of the gastrointestinal tract due to saponins (1).
Interactions
Certain medications, particularly anticholinergic drugs that inhibit acetylcholine's effects in the body, may interact adversely with Bacopa Monnieri (3). As such, consultation with healthcare professionals is advisable before combining Bacopa Monnieri with other medications or supplements.
Time of Day and With or Without Food
Bacopa Monnieri can be consumed irrespective of meals (6).
In summary, Bacopa Monnieri is a perennial herb rooted in Ayurvedic traditions and is valued for its potential to bolster memory, alleviate insomnia, treat epilepsy, and reduce anxiety. Numerous studies have underscored its merits in enhancing verbal learning, memory acquisition, and attenuating anxiety. Generally safe for consumption, Bacopa Monnieri does present mild gastrointestinal side effects in some. Interactions with certain medications, like anticholinergic drugs, are possible. The standard dosage for Bacopa Monnieri typically lies between 300-450 mg taken orally daily.
Citations:
(1) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK589635/
(2) https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/bacopa-monnieri-benefits
(3) https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-761/bacopa
(4) https://examine.com/supplements/bacopa-monnieri/
(5) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bacopa_monnieri
(6) https://www.amazon.com/Himalaya-Monnieri-Supplement-Nootropic-Enhanced/dp/B0006NZPGA