Bacopa Supplement
Updated Jul. 22nd, 2024 | Read Time: 2 Minutes | What You Will Learn:
- How Does Bacopa Support Health?
- How To Take Bacopa Supplements: Forms, Formats & Dosages
- Side Effects & Cautions
- Nutritional Information
- Reader Comments (4)
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, you can often bind bacopa supplements at health food stores and their Aryuvedic uses are well supported.
How Does Bacopa Support Health?
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.
How To Take Bacopa Supplements: Forms, Formats & Dosages
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.
Side Effects & Cautions
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.
Incredible difference with when you take Bacopa. I've been using it for years, and when I run out I really notice a difference. Helps boost focus and concentration, and no jitters like what you can get when you drink too much coffee.
Hello,
Indeed! Bacopa is a great way to naturally boost energy and vitality, without the shakes or jitters. It's great for those who are sensitive to energy boosting supplements or substances. We're glad you enjoyed our article and this herb.
Be sure to check out our article on energy and natural health too:
https://www.nationalnutrition.ca/articles/health-concerns/energy/
Stay healthy & well!
I can only imagine how in the context of a dark and murky marsh, the light purple flowers would be a lovely sight. And I love that the whole plant is what is used for thereputic benefit!! As someone currently studying a CNS disorder, I have special interest in the brain. I find it remarkable that this plant could potentially enhance nerve impulses in the brain, with its bacosides even being suggested as having the ability to aid in the repair of damaged neurons. Have there been clinical trials of isolated bacosides or Bacopa in the context of dementia or mild cognitive impairment?
Hello Rachel,
Indeed, they are beautiful flowers, with many health benefits as you've learned. Glad you enjoyed learning about the potential cognitive effects Bacopa can have.
Have a healthy day!