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Traditional Uses
Bacopa monnieri has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to treat epilepsy , augment memory capacity and concentration, and reduce stress-induced anxiety,
It is listed as a nootropic , a drug that enhances cognitive ability.
In India , iit is believed that Bacopa Monierri will open the gateway of intelligence and the plant has been traditionally used to consecrate new born babies
Current uses
Traditional application suggests that Bacopa has a direct effect on improving brain functions, increasing concentration, and in promoting memory functions.
Bacosides* play a protective role in the synaptic functions of the nerves in the hippocampus, the seat of memory. Nerve impulses are transmitted across the synapses and their degeneration is believed to contribute to impaired memory and cognition.
The extract brahmi has antioxidant properties. It has been reported to reduce oxidation of fats in the bloodstream, which is a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases.
*Two saponins, designated as bacopaside I and II, are found in Bacopa monniera
Research
Studies have shown that Bacopa supports learning and memory in humans
Long-term memory capacity enhancement was evident after 4-5 days of consumption of a 225mg cap-form extract, taken twice daily. After that time, attempts to recall events that occurred many years previously were found to be immediately successful, and very vivid. The effect lasted about a week after consumption has stopped.
Another observed effect of the herb is dream recall. On a 225mg cap-form extract, taken twice daily, the subject is found to recall dreams - often starting on the 2nd night. (This is not recommended for people with a high stress level, as they might remember unpleasant dreams as well as downright nightmares).
An effect requiring longer periods of consumption of the above dosage, were memory flashes of entire periods of time in the space of a few seconds (e.g. recalling the entire past year at once). There is anecdotal evidence of this happening on day 11 of consumption.
Research on anxiety, epilepsy, bronchitis and asthma, irritable bowel syndrome, and gastric ulcers also supports the Ayurvedic uses of Bacopa