What If I told you that it was possible to use a plant to treat brain and memory diseases for a long time — a plant believed to be so helpful for the brain that it's been a part of the traditional Ayurvedic medical practices in India for a long time? You'd be ecstatic about the possibility of its use you think? You're in luck, since bacopa ticks both of these boxes (and more).
Also known as brahmi, bacopa is used to treat a broad range of mind-related health concerns, including Alzheimer's disease, memory loss, anxiety, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms, epilepsy and as a general tonic to fight stress. It is also a great choice because bacopa has fewer serious negative effects than other psychotropic medications that are commonly prescribed.
The nootropic bacopa for the treatment of joint pain, backache and sexual performance issues for both genders.
The plant's attractive appearance is usually considered a pretty and attractive piece of living space in aquariums. But make no mistake: bacopa isn't just another attractive face. Research and history confirm the potency of bacopa as a healing herb and bacopa is demonstrated to aid in regulating dopamine production in animal studies for psychiatric conditions, including schizophrenia.
What Is Bacopa?
Bacopa is an genus comprising 70 to 100 aquatic plants which belong to the family Plantaginaceae.
The plant is native to India and is found in areas of marsh. In the West it's often seen in aquariums.
Bacopa species can be found in subtropical and tropical regions around the globe especially in the Americas. The majority of parts of the plant have been utilized in the past however modern formulations contain extracts from the stem and leaves.
The kinds that are commonly used in herbal remedies include Bacopa monniera or Bacopa monnieri. It's also commonly called brahmi or water hyssop too.
The leaves contain saponins which include bacosides, thought to be responsible for the curative qualities of the plant. Research has shown that purified bacosides as well as extracts from bacopa standardized to Bacosides have been proven to improve various aspects of mental functioning and learning capacity.
Since the 6th secol A.D., bacopa has been utilized in Ayurvedic medicines as a diuretic, tonic and in the nerve system, as well as the heart. When it comes to Indian and Ayurvedic treatments, it's usually called “Brahmi” because of Brahma the god of creation of the Hindu pantheon.
In Ayurveda the pitta energy believed to be the source of energy, heat enthusiasm and passion. Pitta imbalances are believed to manifest in an overheated, inflamed or over-agitated state of body or mind. Brahmi is regarded as a remedy for pitta imbalances.
In India the country where bacopa is revered over the centuries, babies are blessed by bathing in it, hoping that it can open the way to the mind.
In 1998 in 1998, the Nobel Prize in Physiology and Medicine was awarded in a joint award to Robert F. Furchgott, Louis J. Ignarro and Ferid Murad, for their discovery of Nitric oxide as a signaling molecule within the cardiac system. There is a rumor it was the case that Nobel Prize winners used bacopa during their prize-winning studies.
Health Benefits
1. Adaptogenic Stress Reducer
It's been suggested that as high as 90% of all visits to primary-care physicians are due to stress-related problems 90! This is crazy however, it's not difficult to believe.
Stress, specifically chronic stress can do horrible things to our minds and bodies. In general, reduction in stress should be a top priority of anyone who is trying to lead a healthy and balanced life.
Bacopa extract has been proven to be natural stress relier, aiding our bodies to better manage or adapt to our everyday stressful situations. A study of animals carried out at the Central Drug Research Institute in India found that a standard extraction made from Bacopa monniera was effective in preventing chronic and acute stress.
In particular, it decreased the damage caused by stomach ulcers and adrenal function. It was concluded by the study that bacopa is an adaptogenic effect that is potent.
It's the reason it's often described as an “calming cognitive booster.”
2. Anti-Anxiety and Antidepressant
It's not shocking that in the same way it helps reduce stress This beneficial plant could help lower depression and anxiety symptoms.
Research on animals conducted at the University of Michigan Health System revealed the positive effects on brain function of bacopa, which include a reduction of both anxiety and depression. The positive effects of bacopa in the brain have been biochemically explained as an increase in the effects of neurotransmitters acetylcholine, and possibly serotonin and GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid).
Recent studies on humans proved the effects of these factors as did an analysis of 2021 released in Science Reports.
3. Memory Improvement
A tiny, double-blind 12-week study that was conducted by the Neuropsychology Laboratory of the School of Biophysical Science and Electrical Engineering in Australia participants were given 300 milligrams of bacopa every day while others were given placebo. Before beginning the study the researchers conducted tests on all participants on their visual processing abilities memory, speed and the speed of processing information.
Tests were conducted 5 to 12 weeks later after study had begun. Significant improvement in the participants in the group with bacopa was observed when compared with those in the placebo group. This led scientists to believe that the bacopa “may enhance higher-order cognition processes which are dependent on the information input from our environment, such as memories and learning.”
Recent research has confirmed this claim as well.
4. Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia Treatment
Alzheimer's is a neuro condition that causes gradually dementia, memory loss and the possibility of early death. Natural treatments for Alzheimer's include a supplementation of bacopa.
As per the Alzheimer's Drug Discovery Foundation, it may be an effective method of prevention of the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease (decline in mental capability sufficient to impact everyday life) caused by Alzheimer's.
There are no high-quality human studies that have been conducted, however the animal research has yielded great results thus far. For instance, numerous studies on animals have shown that bacopa boosts cognition and reduces oxidative stress, and could safeguard the brain against dementia and Alzheimer's symptoms.
Although the bacosides which provide neuroprotective qualities are believed to be able to treat these illnesses, experts warn that more reliable and well-constructed studies are required to verify the effectiveness of these drugs.
5. Epilepsy Treatment
The body can experience seizures in the brain when cells of your brain communicate using electrical signals, emit incorrect signals. Usually, a number of seizures are required before you can make a diagnosis of epilepsy.
Although very little research on humans has been conducted however there is an abundance of animal studies suggesting that bacopa might be a natural treatment for epilepsy. Research studies have shown that treatment with bacopa controls gene expression, assists in correcting the brain's ineffective reception and also increases GABA responses.
These results are positive that the cognitive impairment as well as epilepsy-related seizures may be alleviated by bacopa.
6. Chronic Pain Minimizer
In The Wall Street Journal chronic pain can be a significant health risk and health expense all over the world. Tragically, 85 percent of patients suffering from chronic pain are also depressed.
A study published in Current Medicinal Chemistry revealed how Bacopa monnieri not only has powerful antidepressant properties, but also can reduce pain in a manner similar to the effects of morphine. The study also showed that this herb has protection for organs that are commonly affected by opiate-related toxicity such as the kidneys, brain and the heart.
Researchers concludedthat “Bacopa may be a well-tolerated and safe herb for pain relief in a variety of clinical trials, including diverse categories of age.”
7. Blood Pressure Regulator
Animal studies have proven that bacopa could boost the body's use of nitric Oxide, improve blood vessel function, and improve blood flow. These are two advantages that positively impact blood pressure. In the Journal of Ethnopharmacologystudy concludes that, in accordance with studies conducted, certain Bacopa monnieri ingredients may be effective in naturally lowering blood pressure.
8. ADHD Treatment
The bacosides present in Bacopa monnieri are believed to enhance cognitive functions by enhancing nerve impulse transmission, which is why it's a good candidate for treating ADHD. ADHD usually develops in the early years of childhood and is an ongoing condition that causes hyperactivity, attention difficulties, and impulsivity.
A 12-week, double-masked clinical trial that was randomized in children suffering from ADHD who were taking 50 milligrams two times a day had significant improvements over children who were given a placebo for tests of control of the mind, logical memory, and related learning. The study participants' evaluation was not completed until four weeks after the cessation of bacopa consumption, which indicates that the supplementation has an effect that lasted for a long time.
A different study, released in 2022 that focused on boys between the ages of 6 and 14 who displayed hyperactivity and inattention found that “may possess the capacity to improve sleep, cognitive and mood advantages in children ranging from 6-14 years.” However, it was cautioned that “further research is needed to verify the findings presented in this study.”
In the end, it is easy to see why it is beneficial in the treatment of manifestations of ADHD. Bacopa produces a feeling of peace and tranquility and is very beneficial for the impulsive and hyperactive behaviors of people with ADHD. It also has a distinct capacity to boost mental processing while also reducing the impact of stress and anxiety. This is the ideal combination for an ADHD person who has trouble with attention.
9. Potential Schizophrenia Treatment
Bacopa is a supplement to an array of promising remedies to treat symptoms of schizophrenia. However, there is no human study that has been conducted. Studies on animals suggest it could help protect against cognitive impairments that are commonly found in patients suffering from schizophrenia.
Risks, Side Effects and Interactions
Bacopa extract is well tolerated when taken in recommended doses by mouth for brief periods that can last up to 12 weeks. Therapeutic doses do not come with serious adverse negative effects. However, less severe adverse effects could include nausea and stomach cramps, bloated stomach dry mouth, diarrhea and fatigue, particularly when taken with a full stomach.
Bacopa has minor effects of sedation, so take care when mixing it with other sedatives. It could also enhance the thyroid-stimulating effects of drugs or decrease the effectiveness of thyroid-suppressant medications.
Talk to your doctor prior to using bacopa if you suffer from any medical condition.
The plant bacopa is known to build up harmful metals, such as mercury. Therefore, depending on the place the region where the plant is grown, the concentrations of mercury or other toxic substances in its extract could be extremely high. This is the reason it's crucial to purchase bacopa that is high-quality and from a reliable firm.
How to Use (Dosage)
Bacopa is available in a variety of forms, such as capsules, powder tea, syrup and capsules. Based on the Alternative Medicine Review The recommended daily doses include:
- 5-10 grams of powder that is not standardized
- 8.16 milliliters infusion
- A syrup of 30 milliliters (brahmi)
- 5-12 milliliters a day for adults, and 2.5-6 milliliters daily for children aged 6 and under.
- 12 of a 1:1 fluid extract
- 200-400 milligrams of divided doses for adults, and 100-200 milligrams per day in fractions of doses designed for kids. that have been standardized up to 20 percent bacosides and B
Choose bacopa products that are wild-crafted or organic to minimize the risk that you are contaminated by GMOs.
Homemade Bacopa Tea
A great method to reap the many benefits of this is to take a sip of bacopa tea. It doesn't have the typical jitters associated with drinks with caffeine However, you'll experience a calming and uplifting feeling of this beverage.
To make tea using the plant, include a handful of freshly cut leaves, or even a amount of dried bacopa in one cup of boiling water. Allow to infuse for until 10 to 15 minutes. If you're using fresh leaves it is possible to break and bruise the leaves to ensure that the aroma oils can be released in the drinking water. Separate the infused water to ensure the leaves do not interfere with drinking.
It has a warm, wooden, and slightly bitter flavor, which can be made acceptable by adding honey. If you decide to use freshly harvested bacopa at a minimum, one study shows that using fresh plant material increases the quantity of its active saponins.
Bacopa vs. Adderall
Adderall is a type of amphetamine that is legal in a few countries, including those in U.S. and Canada, to treat ADHD as well as narcolepsy and depression. It's a well-known drug to treat ADHD; however, it comes with some negative effects that are more hazardous and frequent than those associated with bacopa.
Here's how they are compared:
Bacopa Pros
- Not addicted
- Enhances memory and cognitive function.
- The study was designed to decrease depression and anxiety
- It is designed to help focus, attention, memory, and learning.
- Brain communication is improved
- Positively regulates serotonin and dopamine
Bacopa Cons
- It can cause stomach upset If taken with no food.
- To reap cognitive benefits, it may be a long time before you see results and research shows that gains are greater after eight to twelve weeks than in the four weeks.
- The powdered form is very bitter.
Adderall Pros
- If used for short-term use, Adderall can have the beneficial effect of reducing symptoms of ADHD by enhancing the supply of certain neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. This improves attention, alertness and energy levels.
- The stimulant increases heart rate and circulation of blood to muscles and makes people feel energetic.
- It can cause feelings of vitality and energy
- It can also induce a feeling of euphoria. However, this is what has made it increasingly popular as a recreational drug
Adderall Cons
- Adderall is a highly addictive drug and potentially dangerous for users who abuse it.
- When taken in the prescribed manner, Adderall can have several negative side effects in the short-term, which include:
- Weight loss and appetite suppression are unhealthy loss
- Irritability
- Trouble sleeping
- A feeling of sluggishness
- Potentially risky cardiac problems
Final Thoughts
- Bacopa is a mainstay in the ancient Ayurvedic healing for many centuries. The latest research confirms bacopa's ability to enhance and positively impact not only cognitive capabilities like memory and learning but also mental health issues like anxiety and depression.
- ADHD is increasing worldwide, and so is the need for conventional treatment options like Adderral Bacopa extract, which is a naturally occurring substance that has the potential to substantially aid ADHD without the negative side effects that are associated with traditional treatment. If you believe you or someone you know might benefit from bacopa, you should taking a look at this plant's water for its amazing medicinal properties.
- Don't forget that aside from treating ADHD bacopa also functions as an adaptogenic stress-reducing agent as well as an antidepressant and anti-anxiety agent, memory booster, Alzheimer's disease and the treatment for epilepsy, chronic pain reducer as well as a blood pressure regulators making it a safe and healthy option to treat and/or prevent a variety of health problems.