Several health supplements and medicines were discovered over the years. This has led to bringing Bacopa Monnieri to light, as a supplement that improves one’s cognitive development. Bacopa, also referred to as herb of grace, herpestis herb, or water hyssop — is known to be the traditional medicine from India, an herb long used in Ayurveda (healthy lifestyle system in India). It is popular for its ability to treat memory disorders, anxiety, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), certain allergic conditions, irritable bowel syndrome, and even thyroid health. However, these benefits are still not supported by scientific research and have only limited evidence. 

Before you enjoy the benefits that Bacopa offers, you have to make sure to consult with your resident doctor first. You have to initially weigh the pros and cons of consumption, and learn how helpful it is for you. It might have a drastic effect when forming an interaction with certain types of medicines you are currently consuming.

With its popularity, Bacopa Monnieri has been developed in many forms — oils, tinctures, and tea. Bacopa tea in particular is the most favored and common means of taking this herb, along with having a lot of benefits for you and your body.

Uses of Bacopa Monnieri

Given the benefits of Bacopa Monnieri, it became popular as it is rich in a class of powerful bio-compounds called bacosides. This specific element is believed to be the source of all the health benefits that Bacopa Monnieri tea offers. Moreover, this herb is also described as “nootropic,” which means they contain ingredients that are naturally produced, holding powerful effects on the brain function. Certain evidence suggests that bacopa contains antioxidant properties.

As it was mentioned that the herb carries compounds called bacosides, it is proven, but with limited evidence, that it has the ability to enhance the communication of brain chemicals involved in cognition, learning, and memory, inhibiting inflammation in the brain. Given the restricted amount of research for the health effects of bacopa, few studies still have been done to focus on the treatment and prevention of several health problems.

Since bacopa is deemed to be a treatment for cognitive function, it indicates that it helps preserve the memory and enhance the brain function. Studies show that this herb has the potential to improve cognition, and the extract has the ability to improve memory during free-recall tests. Researchers also found that six weeks of bacopa intake, which are consumed twice a day, at a dose of 300mg per day, may have the possibility to lead to improvements in tests relating to cognitive function.

On the other hand, bacopa may also help make adjustments to the activity of certain enzymes involved in the stress response, with suggestions including bacopa allowing the brain to be prepared in coping up under stress. Certain studies have been made to assess the effects of a bacopa extract in healthy participants engaging in multiple tasks. Then, positive cognitive effects have been revealed, along with positive mood effects and a reduction in cortisol levels for those with regular bacopa consumption. It imposes the ability to increase certain brain chemicals involving the act of thinking, learning, and retaining memory. Some research suggests that it might also be of help in protecting brain cells from chemicals relating to Alzheimer’s disease.

Side Effects

Apart from the positive effects that have been mentioned above, Bacopa Monnieri may cause side effects like nausea, stomach cramps, bloating, diarrhea, increased bowel movements, dry mouth, and fatigue. It might also impose the increase of calcium levels in the blood, according to certain tests and studies. The herb may also have the ability to affect levels of neurotransmitters, involving serotonin and dopamine. But still, in any aspect, bacopa extract is possibly safe for adults. 

Interactions

As mentioned above, before you actually consume Bacopa Monnieri, you should consult with your resident doctor first. Combining this with other medications may cause an even more serious condition, which may affect your state as to why you are taking the other medicine in the first place. Bacopa may increase levels of certain chemicals in your body that work in the brain, heart, and other parts of internal systems. Though there is a lack of research and study on the effects of the herb when interacting with medications, it is still important to be safe even though it is known to hold several benefits. Remember that the safety of supplements, if consumed by pregnant women, nursing mothers, children, and those with medical conditions, has still not yet proven.

Key Takeaway

The health benefits of Bacopa Monnieri, along with its uses, side effects, and interactions, though not yet proved to be significantly effective, is guaranteed to be possibly safe for certain people. It has the ability to boost one’s brain function and wellness, in support of the body’s natural functions and responses.