Bacopa monnieri, also known as Brahmi or the “herb of grace,” is a staple in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. It grows in wet, tropical environments and has been used by Ayurvedic practitioners for centuries for various purposes, including improving memory, reducing anxiety, and treating epilepsy.
In fact, research suggests it may boost brain function and relieve anxiety and stress, among other benefits.
A class of powerful compounds in Bacopa monnieri, called bacosides, is believed to be responsible for these benefits.
Here are seven key benefits of Brahmi:
1. Contains Powerful Antioxidants
Antioxidants are substances that protect cells from damage caused by potentially harmful molecules called free radicals.
Research shows that damage caused by free radicals is linked to many chronic conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
The primary active compounds in Bacopa monnieri—bacosides—have been shown to neutralize free radicals and prevent the reaction of lipid molecules with them. This process, called lipid peroxidation, is associated with conditions like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and other neurodegenerative disorders.
For example, a study found that Brahmi treatment in rats with dementia reduced free radical damage and reversed memory impairment.
2. May Reduce Inflammation
Inflammation is the body’s natural response to promote healing and fight disease.
However, chronic low-level inflammation is linked to many chronic conditions, including cancer, diabetes, heart, and kidney diseases.
Test-tube studies suggest Bacopa suppresses the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines—molecules that trigger inflammatory immune responses.
Moreover, Bacopa inhibits enzymes such as cyclooxygenases, caspases, and lipoxygenases, which are key players in inflammation and pain.
Animal studies have found that Bacopa’s anti-inflammatory effects are comparable to those of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like diclofenac and indomethacin.
However, further human studies are needed to confirm these effects.
3. May Enhance Brain Function
Research suggests that Bacopa monnieri can improve brain function.
For example, a study in mice found that Bacopa supplements improved spatial learning and the ability to retain information.
The same study also found that it increases the length of dendrites and their branching. Dendrites are parts of the brain’s nerve cells that are closely associated with learning and memory.
Another 12-week study in 46 healthy adults found that taking 300 mg of Bacopa monnieri daily significantly improved the speed of visual information processing, learning rate, and memory compared to a placebo.
Another 12-week study involving 60 adults found that taking 300 mg or 600 mg of Brahmi extract daily improved memory, attention, and information processing ability compared to placebo treatment.
4. May Reduce ADHD Symptoms
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention.
Research suggests Bacopa monnieri may help reduce ADHD symptoms.
In one study of 31 children aged 6–12, taking 225 mg of Brahmi extract daily for six months significantly reduced symptoms of ADHD, such as restlessness, poor self-control, inattention, and impulsivity in 85% of the children.
Another study involving 120 children with ADHD observed that taking an herbal blend containing 125 mg of Bacopa improved attention, cognitive abilities, and impulse control compared to the placebo group.
Although promising, more extensive studies are needed to validate these findings.
5. May Prevent Anxiety and Stress
Brahmi is considered an adaptogenic herb, meaning it enhances the body’s resistance to stress.
Research shows that Bacopa may reduce anxiety and stress by elevating mood and lowering cortisol levels, a hormone closely linked to stress.
A study on rodents showed that Brahmi has anti-anxiety effects comparable to those of lorazepam, a prescription benzodiazepine medication used to treat anxiety.
However, research on Bacopa monnieri and anxiety in humans has shown mixed results.
For example, two 12-week studies in humans found that taking 300 mg daily significantly reduced anxiety and depression scores in adults compared to placebo treatment.
Still, another human study found that treatment with Bacopa had no effect on anxiety.
Larger human studies are needed to confirm its effects on stress and anxiety.
6. May Lower Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is a severe health concern that strains the heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart disease.
Research shows that Bacopa monnieri may help maintain blood pressure within healthy ranges.
In an animal study, Brahmi reduced both systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels. This effect was achieved by releasing nitric oxide, which helps dilate blood vessels, leading to improved blood flow and lower blood pressure.
Another study found that Bacopa significantly lowered blood pressure levels in rats with elevated levels but had no effect on rats with normal blood pressure levels. A 12-week study involving 54 healthy adults observed that taking 300 mg daily had no impact on blood pressure levels.
Based on current findings, Bacopa monnieri may lower blood pressure in animals with elevated levels. However, further studies on humans are needed to confirm these effects.
7. May Have Anti-Cancer Properties
Test-tube and animal studies indicate that Brahmi may have anti-cancer properties.
Bacosides have been shown to kill aggressive brain tumor cells and inhibit the growth of breast and colon cancer cells in test-tube studies.
Furthermore, Bacopa induces cell death in skin and breast cancer in studies conducted on animals and in vitro.
Research suggests that the high levels of antioxidants and bacosides in Brahmi may be responsible for its cancer-fighting properties.
Keep in mind that these results are from test-tube and animal studies. Until more human research is conducted on Bacopa monnieri and cancer, its use as a treatment cannot be recommended.
Side Effects of Bacopa Monnieri
While Brahmi is considered safe, it may cause side effects in some people, especially in higher doses.
These may include nausea, stomach cramps, and diarrhea.
It’s not recommended for pregnant women, as there are no studies evaluating its safety during pregnancy.
As with any supplement, consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if you have chronic conditions, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
How to Take Bacopa Monnieri
Typical doses of Brahmi extract in human studies range from 300–450 mg per day.
Each capsule of Dr. Mood contains 200 mg of standardized Bacopa extract with 50% bacosides. The recommended daily dose of two capsules provides 400 mg, which is sufficient.
Conclusion
Bacopa monnieri is an ancient Ayurvedic herbal remedy with a variety of potential health benefits.
Human research shows it may improve brain function, treat ADHD symptoms, and reduce stress and anxiety. Additionally, test-tube and animal studies suggest it may have anti-cancer properties and help lower inflammation and blood pressure.
Source: Healthline
2023
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