What is bacopa?

Bacopa monnieri (B. monnieri), also known as brahmi, is a naturally-occurring tropical plant that produces white flowers between spring and autumn, and can thrive underwater. Due to its trailing blooms, it is often used in hanging planters and gardens. However, bacopa as an herb has also been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine due to its nootropic properties.

Benefits of bacopa

Bacopa has been used for a variety of memory-related purposes, including reducing occurrences of Alzheimer’s disease and attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Let’s explore some of the existing research below.

Alzheimer’s disease
A 2017 study found that bacopa is promising in reducing the effects of Alzheimer’s, but requires more research due to the small sample size utilized. Additionally, the Alzheimer’s Organization states that bacopa “removes Amyloid, one of the main causes of Alzheimer’s, from the brain.”

However, other researchers have reached different conclusions. A 2022 study, for example, reported that there was no difference between the impact of bacopa and that of a placebo on individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. It is likely that more research will need to be conducted to explore these varying results and monitor any long-term effects.

Improving memory
A 2008 study at the University of Oregon examined individuals aged 65 or older and found that bacopa supplements increased cognitive performance. Similarly, the Neuropsychology Laboratory at the School of Biophysical Science and Electrical Engineering in Australia conducted a study in which certain participants were given bacopa on a daily basis, and others were given a placebo. The results illustrated cognitive improvement in those who had taken bacopa. Finally, researchers in 2012 who employed a similar study reported that bacopa improved cognitive performance in 9 out of 17 memory recall tests.

Reducing stress and anxiety
Stress and anxiety have steadily increased in recent years, likely due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. At the beginning of 2023, a study by CFAH revealed that more than 27% of American adults suffer from anxiety, COVID-19 caused a 25% increase in anxiety, and 94% of workers feel stressed out.

Bacopa may be useful in reducing stress and anxiety for a variety of reasons. First, it may increase neurotransmitters, which regulate emotions. It may also impact the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which is directly involved in stress.

Attenion deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
A 2014 study that explored the effects of bacopa extract on children with ADHD produced promising results. These researchers reported that symptoms for restlessness reduced in 93% of the children and self-control increased in 89%. Further, the extract was well-tolerated by the children studied.

Possible side effects of bacopa

Few research has been published on the side effects of bacopa, which is why it is important to consult a doctor to determine appropriate dosage. Similar to the side effects of other natural medications, taking bacopa may lead to:
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Dry mouth
• Stomach cramps
• Allergic reactions

Bacopa in our products

Turmeric Innovations, Inc. has conducted extensive research on bacopa to determine its benefits when combined with turmeric. Our product, Memory Rockets, contains a full-spectrum blend of turmeric and bacopa, intended to protect brain health by improving memory, cognitive function, and mood. For more information about our company and products, please visit our website and online store.

The above statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Turmeric Innovations, Inc. and it products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.