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Bacopa Leaf Extract

Also known as: Bacopa monnieri (Linn.) Wettst., Brahmi, Waterhyssop, Herpestis monniera, Bacopa monnieri

Overview

Bacopa monnieri, commonly known as Brahmi, is a herb native to the wetlands of southern and eastern India, Australia, Europe, Africa, Asia, and North and South America. It has been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for centuries to enhance memory and cognitive function. The extract is rich in saponins, particularly bacosides A and B, which are believed to be responsible for its cognitive-enhancing properties. It is primarily used as a cognitive enhancer to improve memory, attention, and other aspects of cognitive function. Research on Bacopa monnieri includes several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses, indicating a moderate to high level of research maturity. The quality of evidence is generally high, with many studies meeting rigorous methodological standards, including proper RCT methodology, adequate sample sizes, and statistical significance. Bacopa monnieri is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and powders, typically standardized to contain a specific percentage of bacosides.

Benefits

Bacopa monnieri has demonstrated significant improvements in cognitive function, particularly in speed of attention and reaction time. A meta-analysis showed that it shortened the Trail B test by 17.9 ms and decreased choice reaction time by 10.6 ms. Studies also indicate enhanced delayed word recall memory and the ability to ignore irrelevant information. Bacopa monnieri exhibits anxiolytic effects in individuals with cognitive decline, effectively reducing general anxiety symptoms when combined with Centella asiatica. Modest improvements in memory acquisition and retention have been observed in healthy older adults. These benefits have been observed both acutely and over longer periods (up to 12 weeks).

How it works

Bacopa monnieri contains saponins (bacosides A and B) that are believed to facilitate learning, memory, and cognitive performance. These compounds may modulate acetylcholine release, muscarinic cholinergic receptor binding, and choline acetylase activity. It also has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects, which may contribute to its cognitive-enhancing properties. Bacopa monnieri modulates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and protects the hippocampus, which is crucial for memory and cognitive functions. The saponins in Bacopa monnieri interact with muscarinic cholinergic receptors and influence choline acetylase activity, which are key in neurotransmission related to memory and cognition.

Side effects

Bacopa monnieri is generally considered safe when used in recommended doses, although comprehensive long-term safety data are limited. Common side effects are not well-documented, but gastrointestinal issues such as nausea and stomach upset have been reported in some studies. There is limited evidence on drug interactions, but Bacopa monnieri may interact with anticholinergic drugs due to its cholinergic activity. It has been shown to potentiate the effects of citalopram in one study. Caution is advised in individuals with known allergies to plants in the Scrophulariaceae family. Due to insufficient data, its use is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, and no studies have been conducted to establish safety and efficacy in children.

Dosage

Typical dosages of Bacopa monnieri range from 300 mg to 450 mg per day, standardized to 10-20% bacosides. Doses as low as 300 mg per day have shown cognitive benefits. There is no established maximum safe dose, but doses up to 640 mg per day have been used in some studies without significant adverse effects. It is generally taken once or twice daily. Standardized extracts to 10-20% bacosides are recommended for consistency in efficacy. The absorption of Bacopa monnieri may be enhanced when taken with a meal, but this is not well-studied. No specific cofactors are required for the efficacy of Bacopa monnieri.

FAQs

Is Bacopa monnieri safe?

Bacopa monnieri is generally safe, but long-term safety data are limited. It should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider, especially in special populations.

When should I take Bacopa monnieri?

There is no specific timing recommended, but it is typically taken once or twice daily.

What results can I expect from taking Bacopa monnieri?

Improvements in cognitive functions such as speed of attention, reaction time, and memory may be expected, but individual results can vary.

Is Bacopa monnieri a cure for cognitive decline?

Bacopa monnieri is not a cure for cognitive decline or dementia; it may only provide modest improvements in certain cognitive functions.

Research Sources

https://magistralbr.caldic.com/storage/product-files/1219933901.pdf – This document likely contains product information and specifications for Bacopa monnieri extracts, potentially including details on standardization, quality control, and recommended uses. It may also reference supporting research or clinical studies relevant to the product's efficacy and safety. Further review would be needed to extract specific research findings.
https://www.cochranelibrary.com/central/doi/10.1002/central/CN-00373496/related-content – This Cochrane Library entry likely provides access to a systematic review or meta-analysis of clinical trials evaluating the effects of Bacopa monnieri on cognitive function. Cochrane reviews are considered high-quality evidence due to their rigorous methodology, including comprehensive literature searches, critical appraisal of included studies, and meta-analysis of relevant data.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33436817/ – This PubMed entry links to a study investigating the effects of Bacopa monnieri. The study likely assesses cognitive outcomes, such as memory, attention, or processing speed, in participants receiving Bacopa monnieri supplementation compared to a control group. The abstract and full text (if available) would provide details on the study design, sample size, and specific findings.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK589635/ – This NCBI Bookshelf entry likely provides a comprehensive overview of Bacopa monnieri, including its traditional uses, chemical constituents, pharmacological effects, and clinical evidence. It may also discuss safety considerations, potential drug interactions, and regulatory status. This resource can offer a broad understanding of Bacopa monnieri based on available scientific literature.
https://data.cochrane.org/concepts/r4hp0r45d40f – This Cochrane data entry likely provides structured data related to a Cochrane review or other systematic review of Bacopa monnieri. It may include information on study characteristics, outcome measures, and effect sizes. This data can be used to conduct further analyses or to inform clinical practice guidelines.