Bacopa: Your Natural Ally for Memory and Focus
Published: 13 November, 2024 | 4'
For centuries, certain plants have been used in traditional medicine for their multiple benefits to the body. This is the case of Bacopa, which we can still find today due to its positive effect on memory and cognitive function. Its use dates back to traditional Indian Ayurvedic medicine, which discovered its beneficial effects on the mind and brain.
Periods of intense intellectual effort due to the fast pace of daily life and high demands in the workplace or during study periods affect mental well-being. Discover the role that bacopa plays and its benefits on our memory.
What is Bacopa monnieri?
Bacopa is a plant native to Asia and is currently also found in some areas of the American continent. It is also known by its full scientific name, Bacopa monnieri, or other popular names like Brahmi, derived from its traditional use in India.
It has a long history of use in traditional Ayurvedic medicine concerning cognitive aspects, particularly in memory and learning. Bacopa contains active compounds such as alkaloids, bacosides, or flavonoids, among others. The bacosides are known for their positive effects on mental well-being.
Mechanisms of action of Bacopa monnieri
Bacopa exerts effects on the nervous system through the modulation of acetylcholine release, the binding of muscarinic cholinergic receptors, and the activity of enzymes involved in choline metabolism. In this way, bacopa has benefits for cognitive function, especially in situations that require high mental performance, such as during study periods.
Benefits and properties of Bacopa
Bacopa monnieri may enhance aspects of memory, cognition, and mood. Additionally, it also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Memory and concentration
The properties of Bacopa on cognitive well-being are due to the presence of bacosides, a group of saponins that are part of the active ingredients in this plant. Bacosides type A and B may enhance learning, memory, concentration, and mental performance.
Mental well-being
Thanks to its action on mental well-being, Bacopa is useful for modulating mood in situations where we lead a more demanding lifestyle. This is because the consumption of Bacopa has been associated with higher levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation. Thus, its consumption favours a calmer state, decreasing irritability and insomnia.
Antioxidant properties
Oxidative reactions, which under normal conditions are well regulated and support proper metabolic function, are responsible for the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Generally, antioxidants are responsible for eliminating the excess of these molecules, thus supporting well-being.
However, sometimes an imbalance occurs in this system and an uncontrolled amount of reactive oxygen species is generated. Some of the compounds in bacopa have antioxidant properties. Due to their positive effects on oxidative stress, they neutralise free radicals, which contribute to this state of excessive oxidation, restoring balance.
How and when to take Bacopa
This plant, due to its increasingly extensive use, can be found in dietary supplements alongside other active principles that support cognitive performance, such as Phosphatidylserine, Rhodiola or Citicoline.
Best time to take Bacopa
The consumption of Bacopa is recommended along with meals.
How much Bacopa monnieri should I take?
The recommended dosage of Bacopa monnieri usually ranges from 300 to 600 mg daily. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional if the desired effects are not achieved and to determine the appropriate amount for each individual, as it may vary depending on age, health status, and other factors.
Considerations and adverse effects of Bacopa
No adverse effects of Bacopa use have been reported. However, if any unwanted effects occur during its use, it is important to stop its intake and consult a professional to determine the cause.
Can I take Bacopa?
The use of Bacopa monnieri is generally recommended for adults over 18 years of age. However, there are some situations, such as women during pregnancy or breastfeeding, where its use is not recommended. If in doubt, consult your healthcare professional.
If you want to know more about cognitive function…
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Content reviewed by specialists in the Scientific Information area of MARNYS. This article is informative and does not replace consultation with a specialist.
