Supports the cognitive, memory, and anti-stress functions of the brain

Bacopa monnieri is primarily known for its ability to support the brain. In fact, there have been several studies done in the U.S. to determine if Bacopa monnieri lives up to its Ayurvedic reputation. In a study at the Helfgott Research Institute, National College of Natural Medicine, Portland, OR., It was determined that Bacopa monnieri recipients showed significantly better scores in the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (AVLT) than participants taking a placebo.

Recipients also performed better in cognitive tests (Stroop), depression, and heart rate.
In a review of published research articles by scientists at the Department of Neuroscience, Pitzer College, Claremont, California, the authors stated:

“BM (Bacopa monnieri) demonstrates immense potential in the amelioration of cognitive disorders, as well as prophylactic reduction of oxidative damage, NT modulation, and cognitive enhancement in healthy people.”

A brand new review article by scientists in Spain and India documents research showing Bacopa monnieri is effective at ameliorating the symptoms and slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. It restores memory in schizophrenia and Alzheimer’s disease, protects against stroke, and prevents the convulsions associated with epilepsy. In healthy people it improves cognitive function.

Scientists believe it is the bacosides in Bacopa monnieri that are the primary healing agent. Bacosides are triterpenoid saponins that have been shown to enhance nerve impulse transmission. According to the researchers in Spain and India, “bacosides promote the repair of damaged neurons by upregulating neuronal synthesis and kinase activity. The bacosides also aid in the restoration of synaptic activity, which ultimately leads to nerve impulse transmission…”

Research has shown that Bacopa monnieri has antidepressant, anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effects in the brain.

If you find yourself in a situation where you need strong narcotic painkillers, such as morphine or oxycodone, supplement with Bacopa monnieri. It enhances the pain relieving benefits of these drugs while limiting the “high,” which in turn makes them less addicting. Also, it protects your organs against the risk of damage due to opioid use.

Research has shown that Bacopa monnieri may help fight systemic inflammation and swelling of the brain due to autoimmune responses.

Antioxidation properties protect DNA and cell health

Bacopa monnieri contains strong antioxidants that protect the DNA and cell structure. Research has confirmed the antioxidant effect of this powerful adaptogen in the kidneys, brain and liver. The drugs used to fight tuberculosis are known to damage the liver.

At the School of Biosciences and Technology in Tamilnadu, India, scientists tested Bacopa monnieri’s ability to restore health to the livers of rats with liver disease induced with tuberculosis drugs. They compared the activity of Bacopa monnieri with that of the liver-protective drug, silymarin, and found that oxidation levels in damaged livers were normalized and the Bacopa monnieri treatment showed significant liver protectant properties in the rats.

Supports cardiovascular health

Like other adaptogens, Bacopa monnieri increases nitric oxide in the arteries and veins, lowering blood pressure, providing healthier sex function, and encouraging vascular muscle function.

Antimicrobial properties

Scientists at the Manonmaniam Sundaranar University in Rajakkamangalam, India tested the antimicrobial powers of ten herbs from the coastal area of India against twelve common human pathogens. They found that a butanolic alcohol extract of Bacopa monnieri had the strongest activity against the human pathogen Escherichia coli.

A methanol extract of Bacopa monnieri has also been shown to be active against Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella typhi. However, the extract did not suppress the growth of K. pneumonia microbe.

Dosage

Researchers have proven 55 percent bacosides extract safe at a dosage of 300 mg extract for up to twelve weeks. If taking powdered whole herb, dosage is between 750 and 1500 mg. At this dosage, it takes four to six weeks for Bacopa monnieri to make a difference, and the full twelve weeks to maximize effects.

Warnings and Side Effects

• Don’t use Bacopa monnieri if your heart beats too slowly. It may slow your heart too much.
• Don’t use Bacopa monnieri if you suffer from intestinal blockages. It has been known to slow and congest the intestines.
• Don’t use Bacopa monnieri if you have stomach ulcers.
• Bacopa monnieri may increase secretions in the lungs.
• Don’t use it if you have respiratory problems.
• Bacopa monnieri may increase hormone production in the thyroid.
• Don’t use it if you have thyroid problems or are taking medications for your thyroid.
• Bacopa monnieri may increase urinary tract secretions. Don’t use it if you have urinary tract conditions.
• Bacopa monnieri has not been tested in pregnant women. Don’t take it if you are pregnant or breast feeding.