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Home >
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BACOPA
Articles by a Naturopathic
Doctor ( N.D.)
Could it be? A supplement that actually makes you smarter? If you are looking for a boost in cognitive ability, Bacopa just may be the answer for you!
Bacopa Monniera is a small creeping herb with light purple flowers and numerous branches. It grows naturally in the wet soil and marshes of India and the tropics, and has been used for centuries in Aryuvedic medicine as a brain tonic. It was known to support memory, learning and concentration. Today, these Aryuvedic uses are well supported. |
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BACOPA |
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Bacopa offers memory and cognitive support. |
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A specific constituent of Bacopa, triterpenoid saponins, contain bacosides which are responsible for Bacopa's ability to enhance nerve impulses in the brain. These bacosides aid in the repair of damage to neurons and therefore in restoration of synaptic activity. They are also said to increase neuronal synthesis. These effects have only been demonstrated with long term use of 3 months or more.
Bacopa has also been found to be effective in relieving anxiety and reducing seizures in individuals with epilepsy. Studies have shown it to be effective in relieving symptoms of IBS and gastric ulcers, as well as bronchitis and asthma.
The average dosage ranges from 200-400 mg/day standardized to 20% bacosides. Children are recommended to consume 50-100 mg/day. Bacopa is available in capsule and liquid or tincture form and is often included in combinations aimed at memory or cognitive improvement. There are no toxicity issues with Bacopa, although they have been reports of minor GI discomfort. Individuals taking benzodiazepines, SSRI's and SNRI's along with Bacopa, may notice excessive drowsiness. |
BACOPA –
QUICK FACTS
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PARTS USED
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· Whole plant. |
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APPLICATIONS |
· Memory impairment, Attention deficit disorders, stress, cognitive decline. |
OPTIMUM
DOSAGE
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·
300 mg/day. |
WORKS WELL
WITH
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· Ginkgo biloba, phosphatidyl serine, Fish oils, B-complex |
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IMPORTANT
INFORMATION
click for products |
· The combination of SSRI's or SNRI's or benzodiazepines with Bacopa may cause increased drowsiness. Use caution when taking these prescription medications along with Bacopa. |
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copyright National Nutrition 2001 - 2011. For educational
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