Bacopa Monnieri
SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH ON THE FOLLOWING INGREDIENTS:
Bacopa monnieri
Bacopa monnieri
Abstract
Bacopa monnieri (brahmi) is a botanical used in Ayurvedic medicine primarily for memory improvement, insomnia, epilepsy, and anxiety. Clinical studies have shown improvements in verbal learning, recall, memory, and anxiety reduction. It's a calming cognitive enhancer with triterpenoid saponins believed to be responsible for its pharmacological actions. While generally well-tolerated, common side effects include gastrointestinal issues. This reviews the indications, contraindications, activity, and adverse events of Bacopa monnieri for cognitive performance and anxiety.
Indications: Used in Ayurvedic medicine to improve mental health, memory, intellect, rejuvenation, and longevity. Clinically used to improve verbal learning, delayed word recall, memory acquisition, and reduce anxiety.
Methods: Literature review.
Results: Bacopa monnieri exhibits multiple pharmacological actions, serving as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticonvulsant, cardiotonic, and bronchodilator, while also offering peptic ulcer protection, with potential mechanisms involving modulation of acetylcholine release, muscarinic cholinergic receptor binding, and choline acetylase activity. Studies have shown improvements in cognitive performance, verbal learning, delayed word recall, memory acquisition, and decreased stress responses and anxiety. While animal models suggest benefits for Alzheimer's, epilepsy, Parkinson's, and cerebral ischemia/infarct, Bacopa is generally well-tolerated, with the most common side effects being gastrointestinal issues, such as increased stool frequency, nausea, and abdominal cramps; it also has the potential to affect fertility in animals and should be avoided or used with caution in individuals with bradycardia, gastrointestinal or urogenital obstruction, peptic ulcer disease, pulmonary conditions, or thyroid conditions, and may interact with certain medications metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes and thyroid hormones.
Conclusion: Bacopa monnieri has potential benefits for cognitive performance and anxiety but should be used with awareness of potential side effects and contraindications, especially in individuals with certain pre-existing conditions or taking specific medications. Healthcare provider consultation is recommended.
Source: Walker EA, Pellegrini MV. Bacopa Monnieri. [Updated 2023 Mar 17]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan.
Pharmacological attributes of Bacopa monnieri extract: Current updates and clinical manifestation
Abstract
This review aims to highlight the health benefits of Bacopa monnieri extracts (BME), focusing on anti-cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. It examines clinical studies on phytochemistry and pharmacological applications of BME, highlighting its mechanism of action in varying types of cancer and their therapeutic implications. It also investigates the underlying molecular mechanism in therapeutic interventions, toxicities, safety concerns, and synergistic potential in cognition and neuroprotection. The review provides insights into the therapeutic implications of Brahmi as a lead formulation for treating neurological disorders and exerting cognitive-enhancing effects.
Methods: A review of the literature focusing on the phytochemistry and pharmacological applications of BME, highlighting mechanisms of action, therapeutic implications, toxicities, safety concerns, and synergistic potential.
Results: Bacopa monnieri contains bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, triterpenes, and cucurbitacin, with potential roles in neuroprotection. Bacosides, significant components, play essential roles in neuronal health by protecting cytotoxicity and DNA damage of neurons implicated in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and repairing impaired neurons. Studies suggest BME exhibits anti-cancer efficacy on different types of cancer, nephroprotective efficacy, and protects against oxidative damage from several toxic agents. Clinical trials show cognitive benefits of BME supplementation, enhancing cognitive performance, memory, and attention, while some studies highlight potential for managing anhedonia.
Conclusion: Bacopa monnieri extracts show potential in treating neurological disorders and exerting cognitive-enhancing effects, with significant roles in neuroprotection, cancer prevention, and mitigating damage from toxic agents. However, future investigations are required to compare the neuroprotective effect of B. monnieri extracts with standard drugs to establish systematic clinical uses.
Source: Fatima U, Roy S, Ahmad S, Ali S, Elkady WM, Khan I, Alsaffar RM, Adnan M, Islam A, Hassan MI. Pharmacological attributes of Bacopa monnieri extract: Current updates and clinical manifestation. Front Pharmacol. 2022 Aug 26;13:943141. doi: 10.3389/fphar.2022.943141. PMID: 36061899; PMCID: PMC9436272.
Insights Into the Molecular Aspects of Neuroprotective Bacoside A and Bacopaside I
Abstract
This review summarizes the neuroprotective functions of B. monnieri extracts, specifically bacoside A and bacopaside I, and the molecular mechanisms responsible for these pharmacological activities. Bacopa monnieri has been extensively used as a neuromedicine for anxiety, depression, and memory loss. The vital neuroprotective constituent, bacoside A, is composed of bacoside A3, bacopaside II, jujubogenin isomer of bacopasaponin C (bacopaside X), and bacopasaponin C. B. monnieri extracts and bacosides help establish a healthy antioxidant environment in tissues, especially the liver and brain. The neuroprotective activity is attributed to the regulation of mRNA translation and surface expression of neuroreceptors.
Methods: Literature review.
Results: Bacopa monnieri contains triterpenoid saponins (bacosides) as major active constituents. B. monnieri extracts and bacosides create a healthy antioxidant environment by scavenging free radicals, suppressing lipid peroxidation, and activating antioxidant enzymes. The molecular basis for neuroprotection involves the regulation of mRNA translation and surface expression of neuroreceptors (AMPAR, NMDAR, and GABAR). Nanoconversion of these drug candidates easily resolves the Blood Brain Barrier (BBB) restriction and carries a promising role in future therapies.
Conclusion: Bacopa monnieri extracts and its active compounds, bacoside A and bacopaside I, exhibit neuroprotective functions. The review summarizes the molecular mechanisms responsible for these pharmacological activities.
Source: Sekhar VC, Viswanathan G, Baby S. Insights Into the Molecular Aspects of Neuroprotective Bacoside A and Bacopaside I. CNS Neurol Disord Drug Targets. 2018;17(5):337-344. doi: 10.2174/1570159X16666180419123022. PMID: 29676230; PMCID: PMC6520587.
Neuroprotective effects of Bacopa monnieri in experimental model of dementia
Abstract
This study evaluates the neuroprotective potential of Bacopa monnieri (BM), an Indian medicinal plant effective against cognitive impairment, in colchicine-induced dementia. Intracerebroventricular administration of colchicine induced cognitive impairment and increased oxidative stress in rats. BM supplementation reversed memory impairment, attenuated oxidative damage, and restored the activity of membrane-bound enzymes. The results suggest therapeutic potential of BM in the treatment of AD-associated cognitive decline.
Methods: Rats were administered colchicine to induce cognitive impairment. Bacopa monnieri (BM) was supplemented (50 mg/kg body weight) in colchicine-treated rats. Elevated plus maze was used to assess cognitive impairment. Oxidative stress, levels of lipid peroxidation and protein carbonyls, and activity of antioxidant enzymes were measured. The activity of membrane-bound enzymes (Na+K+ ATPase and AChE) was also assessed.
Results: Colchicine-induced dementia was accompanied by increased oxidative stress, decreased antioxidant enzyme activity, and altered activity of membrane-bound enzymes. BM supplementation reversed memory impairment, attenuated oxidative damage, and restored the activity of membrane-bound enzymes.
Conclusion: BM has therapeutic potential in the treatment of AD-associated cognitive decline.
Source: Saini N, Singh D, Sandhir R. Neuroprotective effects of Bacopa monnieri in experimental model of dementia. Neurochem Res. 2012 Oct;37(10):2275-83. doi: 10.1007/s11064-012-0811-4. Epub 2012 Jun 14. PMID: 22700087.
Importance of high-quality evidence regarding the use of Bacopa monnieri in dementia
Abstract
This narrative review discusses the need for high-quality trials to conclusively state the utility of Bacopa monnieri (BM) in Alzheimer's Disease (AD) and other neurodegenerative dementias. While BM has shown neuroprotective effects in animal and in vitro studies, human studies on AD patients have been inconclusive. The review examines the challenges in designing clinical trials of BM in dementia and provides evidence-based recommendations to improve the quality of evidence.
Results: Many facets of BM trials need improvement, especially effect size and sample size estimation. Current assessment and outcomes measures need a more holistic approach and newer scales for diagnosing and monitoring prodromal AD. Adherence to stringent guidelines in CONSORT and STROBE is considered difficult to implement for clinical trials in ayurvedic medications like BM; however, adherence will improve the quality of evidence.
Conclusion: Future studies on BM should implement more randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with an appropriate sample size of accurately diagnosed AD/prodromal AD patients, administering a recommended dosage of BM and for a pre-specified time calculated to achieve adequate power for the study. Researchers should develop and validate more sensitive cognitive scales, especially for prodromal AD. BM should be evaluated in accordance with the same rigorous standards as conventional drugs to generate the best quality evidence.
Source: Agarwal A, Mishra B, Gupta A, Srivastava MVP, Basheer A, Sharma J, Vishnu VY. Importance of high-quality evidence regarding the use of Bacopa monnieri in dementia. Front Aging Neurosci. 2023 Mar 10;15:1134775. doi: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1134775. PMID: 36936504; PMCID: PMC10014812.
Use of Bacopa monnieri in the Treatment of Dementia Due to Alzheimer Disease: Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Abstract
This review aims to determine the clinical efficacy and safety of B. monnieri in persons with mild, moderate, or severe dementia, or mild cognitive impairment, due to Alzheimer disease. The review concludes that there was no difference between B. monnieri and the placebo or donepezil in the treatment of Alzheimer disease based on very low certainty evidence. No major safety issues were reported in the included trials.
Methods: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, clinical trial registries, the metaRegister of Controlled Trials, and CINAHL were searched. Randomized and quasi-randomized controlled trials that compared B. monnieri with a placebo or a cholinesterase inhibitor among adults with dementia due to Alzheimer disease and in those with mild cognitive impairment due to Alzheimer disease were included.
Results: Five eligible studies were identified. Three studies used B. monnieri in combination with herbal extracts, while two used B. monnieri extracts only. Two studies compared B. monnieri with donepezil, while the others used a placebo as the control. There was considerable variation in the B. monnieri dose used (ranging between 125 mg to 500 mg twice daily) and heterogeneity in treatment duration, follow-up, and outcomes. Key outcomes measured were Mini-Mental State Examination scores, Cognitive subscale scores of the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale, and a battery of cognitive tests. All five studies were judged to be at high risk of bias. The overall quality of evidence was rated to be very low.
Conclusion: There was no difference between B. monnieri and the placebo or donepezil in the treatment of Alzheimer disease based on very low certainty evidence. Future randomized controlled trials should aim to recruit more participants and report clinically meaningful outcomes.
Source: Basheer A, Agarwal A, Mishra B, Gupta A, Srivastava MVP, Kirubakaran R, Vishnu V. Use of Bacopa monnieri in the Treatment of Dementia Due to Alzheimer Disease: Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials. Interact J Med Res. 2022 Aug 1;11(8):e38542. doi: 10.2196/38542. PMID: 35612544; PMCID: PMC9379783.
Assessing the Anti-inflammatory Effects of Bacopa-Derived Bioactive Compounds Using Network Pharmacology and In Vitro Studies
Abstract
This pilot study focuses on the anti-inflammatory potential of various phytocompounds of Bacopa monnieri and their interaction with inflammation responsible genes such as COX2, iNOS, LOX, STAT3, CCR1, and MMP9 through systems pharmacology analysis. Docking results revealed that quercetin (QR) showed significant binding energies with inflammatory genes and further in vitro experiments showed that QR effectively reduces the production of nitric oxide (NO) in LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells and downregulates the expression of COX-2 and iNOS genes due to the inhibitory potential of QR on LPS-stimulated NO production.
Methods: Network pharmacology analysis, including retrieval of phytocompounds, identification and mining of human targets, gene enrichment analysis, and molecular docking were done to analyze the anti-inflammatory effect of Bacopa monnieri. In vitro study used MTT assay to determine cell viability, measured NO production using Griess reagent kit, and used western blot analysis to evaluate protein expression.
Results: Network pharmacology identified Quercetin (QR) as a promising anti-inflammatory compound. In vitro, QR effectively reduced nitric oxide (NO) production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW264.7 cells and downregulated the expression of COX-2 and iNOS genes.
Conclusion: Phytocompounds of Bacopa monnieri are potential candidates for development of novel drugs targeting neuroinflammation and have the crucial activity to treat various CNS disorders. Identified phytocompounds can regulate gene-targets associated signalling pathways, ultimately leading to the treatment of inflammation responsive diseases.
Source: Jeyasri R, Muthuramalingam P, Adarshan S, Shin H, Ramesh M. Assessing the Anti-inflammatory Effects of Bacopa-Derived Bioactive Compounds Using Network Pharmacology and In Vitro Studies. ACS Omega. 2022 Nov 8;7(45):41702-41716. doi: 10.1021/acsomega.2c05318. PMID: 36385888; PMCID: PMC9647831.
Inhibition of lipoxygenases and cyclooxygenase-2 enzymes by extracts isolated from Bacopa monniera (L.) Wettst
Abstract
This study investigates the anti-inflammatory activity of methanolic extract of Bacopa monniera (BME), EtOAc fraction, and bacoside fractions. The effects of these extracts in modulating key mediators of inflammation were evaluated. Bacopa monniera possesses anti-inflammatory activity through inhibition of COX and LOX and downregulation of TNF-alpha.
Methods: Carrageenan-induced rat paw edema, rat mononuclear cells, and human whole blood assay were employed as in vivo and in vitro models.
Results: BME brought about 82% edema inhibition at a dose of 100mg/kg i.p. in carrageenan-induced rat paw edema.
BME significantly inhibited 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX), 15-LOX, and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) activities in rat monocytes in vivo.
EtOAc fraction possessed significant 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity (IC50 value of 30 μg/ml) and hydroxyl radical scavenging activity (IC50 value of 25 μg/ml).
Inhibitory effects of EtOAc and bacoside fractions on LOX and COX activities in Ca-A23187 stimulated rat mononuclear cells were observed.
EtOAc and bacoside fractions brought about significant decrease in TNF-alpha release ex vivo.
Conclusion: Bacopa monniera possesses anti-inflammatory activity through inhibition of COX and LOX and downregulation of TNF-alpha.
Source: Viji V, Helen A. Inhibition of lipoxygenases and cyclooxygenase-2 enzymes by extracts isolated from Bacopa monniera (L.) Wettst. J Ethnopharmacol. 2008 Jul 23;118(3):461-7. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2008.04.017. Epub 2008 Apr 23. PMID: 18534796.
Enhancement of basolateral amygdaloid neuronal dendritic arborization following Bacopa monniera extract treatment in adult rats
Abstract
Objective: In the ancient Indian system of medicine, Ayurveda, Bacopa monniera is classified as Medhya rasayana, which includes medicinal plants that rejuvenate intellect and memory. Here, we investigated the effect of a standardized extract of Bacopa monniera on the dendritic morphology of neurons in the basolateral amygdala, a region that is concerned with learning and memory.
Methods: The present study was conducted on 2½-month-old Wistar rats. The rats were divided into 2-, 4- and 6-week treatment groups. Rats in each of these groups were further divided into 20 mg/kg, 40 mg/kg and 80 mg/kg dose groups (n = 8 for each dose). After the treatment period, treated rats and age-matched control rats were subjected to spatial learning (T-maze) and passive avoidance tests. Subsequently, these rats were killed by decapitation, the brains were removed, and the amygdaloid neurons were impregnated with silver nitrate (Golgi staining). Basolateral amygdaloid neurons were traced using camera lucida, and dendritic branching points (a measure of dendritic arborization) and dendritic intersections (a measure of dendritic length) were quantified. These data were compared with the data from the age-matched control rats.
Results: The results showed an improvement in spatial learning performance and enhanced memory retention in rats treated with Bacopa monniera extract. Furthermore, a significant increase in dendritic length and the number of dendritic branching points was observed along the length of the dendrites of the basolateral amygdaloid neurons of rats treated with 40 mg/kg and 80 mg/kg of Bacopa monniera (BM) for longer periods of time (i.e., 4 and 6 weeks).
Conclusion: We conclude that constituents present in Bacopa monniera extract have neuronal dendritic growth-stimulating properties.
The chronic effects of an extract of Bacopa monniera (Brahmi) on cognitive function in healthy human subjects
Abstract
Rationale: Extracts of Bacopa monniera have been reported to exert cognitive enhancing effects in animals. However, the effects on human cognition are inconclusive.
Objective: The current study examined the chronic effects of an extract of B. monniera (Keenmind) on cognitive function in healthy human subjects.
Methods: The study was a double-blind placebo-controlled independent-group design in which subjects were randomly allocated to one of two treatment conditions, B. monniera (300 mg) or placebo. Neuropsychological testing was conducted pre-(baseline) and at 5 and 12 weeks post drug administration.
Results: B. monniera significantly improved speed of visual information processing measured by the IT task, learning rate and memory consolidation measured by the AVLT (P<0.05), and state anxiety (P<0.001) compared to placebo, with maximal effects evident after 12 weeks.
Conclusions: These findings suggest that B. monniera may improve higher order cognitive processes that are critically dependent on the input of information from our environment such as learning and memory.
Effects of 12-Week Bacopa monnieri Consumption on Attention, Cognitive Processing, Working Memory, and Functions of Both Cholinergic and Monoaminergic Systems in Healthy Elderly Volunteers
Abstract
This study aimed to determine the effect of B. monnieri on attention, cognitive processing, working memory, and cholinergic and monoaminergic functions in healthy elderly subjects. Subjects received either a standardized extract of B. monnieri (300 and 600 mg) or placebo once daily for 12 weeks. B. monnieri-treated group showed improved working memory together with a decrease in both N100 and P300 latencies. The suppression of plasma AChE activity was also observed. These results suggest that B. monnieri can improve attention, cognitive processing, and working memory partly via the suppression of AChE activity.
Methods: A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled design was utilized. Sixty healthy elderly subjects received either a standardized extract of B. monnieri (300 and 600 mg) or placebo once daily for 12 weeks. The cholinergic and monoaminergic systems functions were determined using AChE and MAO activities. Working memory, attention and cognitive processing were assessed using cognitive tests, measuring latencies and amplitude of N100 and P300 components of event-related potential.
Results: B. monnieri-treated group showed improved working memory together with a decrease in both N100 and P300 latencies. The suppression of plasma AChE activity was also observed.
Conclusion: B. monnieri can improve attention, cognitive processing, and working memory partly via the suppression of AChE activity.
Source: Peth-Nui T, Wattanathorn J, Muchimapura S, Tong-Un T, Piyavhatkul N, Rangseekajee P, Ingkaninan K, Vittaya-Areekul S. Effects of 12-Week Bacopa monnieri Consumption on Attention, Cognitive Processing, Working Memory, and Functions of Both Cholinergic and Monoaminergic Systems in Healthy Elderly Volunteers. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2012;2012:606424. doi: 10.1155/2012/606424. Epub 2012 Dec 26. PMID: 23320031; PMCID: PMC3537209.
An open-label study to elucidate the effects of standardized Bacopa monnieri extract in the management of symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in children
Abstract
This study investigates the effectiveness of standardized Bacopa monnieri extract (SBME) in ameliorating the severity of the symptoms of ADHD in children. The open-label study found that SBME significantly reduced subtests scores of ADHD symptoms, except for social problems. SBME was found to be effective in alleviating the symptoms of ADHD and was well-tolerated by the children.
Methods: Thirty-one children, 6-12 years of age, with ADHD (as defined by DSM-IV criteria) received SBME at a dose of 225 mg/d for a period of 6 months. The Parent Rating Scale was administered to assess ADHD symptom scores at baseline and after 6 months of treatment.
Results: SBME significantly reduced subtests scores of ADHD symptoms, except for social problems. Symptom scores for restlessness were reduced in 93% of children, for self-control in 89%, for attention-deficit in 85%, and for learning problems, impulsivity, and psychiatric problems in 78%, 67%, and 52% of children, respectively.
Conclusion: Standardized extract of B monnieri was found to be effective in alleviating the symptoms of ADHD and was well-tolerated by the children.
Source: Dave UP, Dingankar SR, Saxena VS, Joseph JA, Bethapudi B, Agarwal A, Kudiganti V. An open-label study to elucidate the effects of standardized Bacopa monnieri extract in the management of symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in children. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health. 2014 Mar 31;8(1):23. doi: 10.1186/1753-2000-8-23. PMID: 24682000.
Effects of Bacopa monnieri (CDRI 08®) in a population of males exhibiting inattention and hyperactivity aged 6 to 14 years: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
Abstract
This study investigated the efficacy of extract of Bacopa monnieri (BM; CDRI 08®) in reducing levels of inattention and hyperactivity in young children. No significant behavioral differences were noted between treatment groups. Improvements in cognitive flexibility, executive functioning, interpersonal problems, and sleep routine were noted in those consuming CDRI 08® over placebo. CDRI 08® did not improve behavioral outcomes, but may have cognitive, mood and sleep benefits in children aged 6 to 14 years.
Methods: A 14-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, with placebo run-in and run-out phases, investigated the effects of BM on behavioral, cognitive, mood, and sleep effects in male children aged 6 to 14 years against placebo.
Results: Cognitive outcomes indicated decreased error-making in children taking CDRI 08® (p = .04) and increased speed of reaction time in those taking placebo (p = .04) at study end. Improvements in cognitive flexibility (p = .01), executive functioning (p = .04), interpersonal problems (p = .02), and sleep routine (p = .04) were noted in those consuming CDRI 08® over placebo.
Conclusion: CDRI 08® did not improve behavioral outcomes, but may have cognitive, mood and sleep benefits in children aged 6 to 14 years.
Source: Kean JD, Downey LA, Sarris J, Kaufman J, Zangara A, Stough C. Effects of Bacopa monnieri (CDRI 08®) in a population of males exhibiting inattention and hyperactivity aged 6 to 14 years: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Phytother Res. 2022 Mar;36(3):1277-1287. doi: 10.1002/ptr.7372. Epub 2022 Jan 14. PMID: 35041248.
Adaptogenic effect of Bacopa monniera (Brahmi)
Abstract
This study investigates the adaptogenic property of a standardized extract of Bacopa monniera against acute (AS) and chronic stress (CS) models in rats. B. monniera, was found to possess a potent adaptogenic activity.
Methods: Male SD rats were exposed to immobilization stress for 150 min (AS) or for seven consecutive days (CS) and were fed with B. monniera or Panax root powder daily prior to stress. Ulcer index, adrenal gland weight, plasma glucose, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and creatine kinase (CK) were measured. Adrenals, spleen, and thymus were dissected for organ weight.
Results: AS exposure increased the ulcer index, adrenal gland weight, plasma glucose, ALT, AST, and CK but decreased the spleen weight. Pretreatment with B. monniera significantly reduced the AS-induced increase in the ulcer index, adrenal gland weight, plasma glucose, AST, and CK. CS exposure resulted in a significant increase in the ulcer index, adrenal gland weight, plasma AST, and CK with a significant decrease in the thymus and spleen weight, plasma triglyceride, and cholesterol. Pretreatment with B. monniera extract reversed CS-induced changes in ulcer index, adrenal gland weight, CK, and AST.
Conclusion: The standardized extract of B. monniera possesses a potent adaptogenic activity.
Source: Rai D, Bhatia G, Palit G, Pal R, Singh S, Singh HK. Adaptogenic effect of Bacopa monniera (Brahmi). Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 2003 Sep;75(4):823-31. doi: 10.1016/s0091-3057(03)00156-4. PMID: 12957224.
An acute, double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over study of 320 mg and 640 mg doses of Bacopa monnieri (CDRI 08) on multitasking stress reactivity and mood
Abstract
This double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over study assessed the acute effects of a specific extract of Bacopa monnieri (KeenMind® - CDRI 08) in healthy participants during completion of a multitasking framework (MTF). Change from baseline scores indicated positive cognitive effects on the Letter Search and Stroop tasks, suggesting an earlier nootropic effect of BM than previously investigated. There were also some positive mood effects and reduction in cortisol levels, pointing to a physiological mechanism for stress reduction associated with BM consumption.
Methods: Seventeen healthy volunteers completed the MTF at baseline, then 1 h and 2 h after consuming a placebo, 320 mg BM, and 640 mg of BM. Treatments were separated by a 7-day washout with order determined by Latin Square. Outcome measures included cognitive outcomes from the MTF, with mood and salivary cortisol measured before and after each completion of the MTF.
Results: Positive cognitive effects were noted at both 1 h post and 2 h post BM consumption on the Letter Search and Stroop tasks. There were also some positive mood effects and reduction in cortisol levels.
Conclusion: Acute BM supplementation produced some adaptogenic and nootropic effects that need to be replicated in a larger sample and in isolation from stressful cognitive tests in order to quantify the magnitude of these effects.
Source: Benson S, Downey LA, Stough C, Wetherell M, Zangara A, Scholey A. An acute, double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over study of 320 mg and 640 mg doses of Bacopa monnieri (CDRI 08) on multitasking stress reactivity and mood. Phytother Res. 2013 Aug;27(8):1161-74. doi: 10.1002/ptr.5029. Epub 2013 Jun 18. PMID: 23788517.
Bacopa monnieri and its constituents is hypotensive in anaesthetized rats and vasodilator in various artery types
Abstract
This study assesses the effects of Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi) on blood pressure and on isolated arteries to provide insights into clinical applications. Intravenous Brahmi decreased systolic and diastolic pressures without affecting heart rate in anesthetized rats. Brahmi evoked relaxation in isolated arteries. In aortae, without endothelium or in L-NAME, Brahmi was less potent; indomethacin was ineffective. In tail artery, Brahmi inhibited K(+)-depolarization induced Ca(2+) influx and Ca(2+) release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum by phenylephrine or caffeine. The study concludes that Brahmi reduces blood pressure partly via releasing nitric oxide from the endothelium, with additional actions on vascular smooth muscle Ca(2+) homeostasis.
Methods: Intravenous Brahmi (20-60 mg/kg) was tested on arterial blood pressure and heart rate of anesthetized rats. In vitro vasorelaxation was assessed in arteries, with and without blockers of nitric oxide synthase (L-NAME), cyclooxygenase (indomethacin), and mechanical de-endothelialisation. The effects of Brahmi on Ca(2+) influx and release from stores were investigated.
Results: Intravenous Brahmi extract decreased systolic and diastolic pressures without affecting heart rate.
Brahmi evoked relaxation in isolated arteries.
In aortae, without endothelium or in L-NAME, Brahmi was less potent; indomethacin was ineffective.
In tail artery, Brahmi inhibited K(+)-depolarization induced Ca(2+) influx and Ca(2+) release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum by phenylephrine or caffeine.
Two saponins, bacoside A3 and bacopaside II, had similar vasodilator actions.
Conclusion: Brahmi reduces blood pressure partly via releasing nitric oxide from the endothelium, with additional actions on vascular smooth muscle Ca(2+) homeostasis. Some Brahmi ingredients could be efficacious antihypertensives, and the vasodilation could account for some medicinal actions.
Source: Kamkaew N, Scholfield CN, Ingkaninan K, Maneesai P, Parkington HC, Tare M, Chootip K. Bacopa monnieri and its constituents is hypotensive in anaesthetized rats and vasodilator in various artery types. J Ethnopharmacol. 2011 Oct 11;137(3):1171-8. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2011.06.045. Epub 2011 Jul 8. PMID: 21762768.
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