Bacopa monnieri

Generic Name: Bacopa monnieri

Brand Names: Brahmi, Bacopa 1000mg

Drug Class: Herbals

Available Dosage Forms: Oral capsule and powder

What is Bacopa monnieri?

Bacopa monnieri is a herb employed in traditional medicine for its favorable therapeutic properties. It is native to South Asia and belongs to the class of memory-enhancing nootropic herbal agents. The herb is infamous for its wide array of medicinal benefits; however, it has largely been utilized for its positive effects on memory and blood sugar maintenance.¹ Other benefits include:

-Cardioprotection

-Hepatoprotection

-Anti-carcinogenic

Induction of chronic unpredictable stress (CUS) is a behavioral paradigm used in clinical trials to evaluate treatment options for major depression. In a clinical study, animal models were subjected to CUS¹ followed by treatment with Bacopa monnieri. The therapeutic efficacy of Bacopa monnieri (80 mg/kg) at the end of the trial was equitable to 20mg/kg of antidepressant agent Imipramine.

Antidepressant effects of Imipramine are elicited by activation of the sigma-1 ligand-receptor. Since Bacopa monnieri exhibited antidepressant action similar to Imipramine, it is postulated that activation of sigma-1 ligand might be the possible mode of action of the herb. Nonetheless, further clinical efforts need to be implemented in this regard to ascertain the exact mechanism of action of Bacopa monnieri.

A study assessed the sleep-inducing effect of Bacopa monnieri in participants with long-term sleep disturbances. Results at the end of the 28-week trial established that Bacopa did not help with sleep but significantly affected mood, relieving anxiety, and improved overall health.²

How to use Baco pamonnieri?

Bacopa monnieri is usually taken as oral capsules of dosage 300 mg per day for 12 weeks. Capsules must be swallowed with water after fat-rich meals. Baco pamonnieri supplements are generally safe; however, doctors have discouraged the use of supplements without prescription. Prescription dosage for Alzheimer’s is usually 300mg capsules twice a day. It can also be supplemented in powder form of dosage 750-1,500 mg per day.

What are the side effects of Bacopa monnieri?

Common side effects:

-Nausea

-Fatigue

-Dry mouth

-Stomach ache

-Increased bowel movement

Who should not use Bacopa monnieri?

An ample number of studies have established the safety of Bacopa monnieri in humans. However, people with the following conditions should consult their doctor before consuming it:

-Pregnant and lactating women

-Anyone with blood pressure or circulation problems

-Anyone with asthma or emphysema

-Anyone with gastrointestinal tract blockage

-Anyone with thyroid disorders

-Anyone with urinary tract obstruction

-Anyone with ulcers

Bacopa monnieri may interact with some groups of drugs. Tell your doctor about any medications you take.

References

1. Brimson JM, Brimson S, Prasanth MI, Thitilertdecha P, Malar DS, Tencomnao T. The effectiveness of Bacopa monnieri (Linn.) West. as a nootropic, neuroprotective, or antidepressant supplement: analysis of the available clinical data.Sci Rep. 2021;11(1):596. Published 2021 January 12. doi:10.1038/s41598-020-80045-2
2. Lopresti AL, Smith SJ, Ali S, Mets AP, Kalns J, Drummond PD. Effects of A Bacopa Monnieri Extract (BACOGNIZE®) on stress, fatigue, quality of life and sleep in adults with self-reported poor sleep: A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Journal of Functional Foods. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1756464621003200?via%3Dihub. Published August 5, 2021. Accessed August 22, 2021.