Spikenard
Also known as: Spikenard, Jatamansi, Muskroot, Nardostachys Grandiflora (synonym), Nardostachys Jatamansi
Overview
Spikenard is a herb from Ayurveda with many similar traditional claims to Bacopa Monnieri such as antistress, anticonvulsive, antiepileptic, and cognitive enhancing. Unlike bacopa, however, jatamansi does not have as much evidence to support it and is currently in a preliminary stage of research. When looking at the neural research, at least one study has supported jatamansi in promoting cognition of otherwise healthy young rodents and restoring cognition in older rats; this study outperformed the reference drug Piracetam, but other studies assessing cognitive enhancement are not too common. There appears to be more evidence on the neuroprotective properties of jatamansi (which, although the studies are too heterogeneous to come to any solid conclusions, seem very promising) and one study suggested potent anti-depressive effects associated with jatamansi. Perhaps intriguinly, jatamansi is a rare herb that has been demonstrated to have a calming effect despite increasing brain monoamines (which is normally correlated with psychostimulation). Beyond the brain, jatamansi appears to have general antioxidative effects (seems a lot more potent in vivo rather than ex vivo; with studies outside the body being about a tenth as effective as Vitamin C and not at all impressive) and has a surprisingly amount of evidence in rodents to support jatamansi as protective against pancreatitis. Similar to the neural evidence, this has not been explored in humans but occurs at very feasible doses.
Benefits
Jatamansi is believed to work through its calming effects on the brain while also enhancing cognitive functions. It appears to increase brain monoamines, which are typically associated with stimulation, yet it has been shown to have a calming effect. This dual action may contribute to its potential neuroprotective properties and its ability to enhance learning and memory.
How it works
Spikenard is most often used for Brain Health. The benefits include potential anticonvulsive and antiepileptic properties, enhancement of learning in youth, neuroprotective effects, and protection against pancreatitis. Additionally, it may have anti-depressive effects and general antioxidative properties.
Side effects
Studies in rodents tend to use 250-500mg/kg of the basic root extract, which is an estimated human dose of: 2,700-5,400mg for a 150lb person, 3,600-7,200mg for a 200lb person, 4,500-9,000mg for a 250lb person. These are estimated human dosages based on rat studies, as it is currently not known if these are optimal human dosages.
Dosage
There are no specific side effects listed for Spikenard in the provided text. However, as with any supplement, it is important to consider safety concerns and contraindications, especially for individuals with specific health conditions or those taking other medications.
FAQs
What are other names for Spikenard?
Spikenard is also known as Spikenard, Jatamansi, Muskroot, Nardostachys Grandiflora (synonym), and Nardostachys Jatamansi. It should not be confused with Nardostachys chinensis (different plant of same genera).
