Nootropic

Bacopa Monnieri (Herba Lysimachiae, Lysimachia, Asian Moneywort Herb, Loose Strife Herb) is an ancient herb used in Ayurvedic medicine to enhance brain function.

Several studies have found that Bacopa Monnieri supplements can speed up information processing in your brain, reduce reaction times and improve memory.

Bacopa Monnieri contains active compounds called bacosides, which protect your brain from oxidative stress and improve signaling in your hippocampus, an area of your brain in which memories are processed.

The effects of Bacopa Monnieri are not felt immediately. Therefore, doses of 300‒600 mg should be taken for several months for maximum benefit.

In TCM this herb is known as Herba Lysimachiae, or Jin Qian Cao.

It’s TCM properties are: Sweet, Salty, Bland, and slightly Cold.

It goes to the TCM Systems: Bladder, Gallbladder, Kidney and Liver

In TCM it is used as an herb that Herbs that Drain Dampness (A TCM treatment) (Diuretics)

Contains powerful antioxidants

Antioxidants are substances that help protect against cell damage caused by potentially harmful molecules called free radicals.

Research suggests that damage caused by free radicals is linked to many chronic conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers

Bacopa monnieri contains powerful compounds that may have antioxidant effects

For example, bacosides, the main active compounds in Bacopa monnieri, have been shown to neutralize free radicals and prevent fat molecules from reacting with free radicals.

When fat molecules react with free radicals, they undergo a process called lipid peroxidation. Lipid peroxidation is linked to several conditions, such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and other neurodegenerative disorders.

Bacopa monnieri may help prevent damage caused by this process.

For example, a study showed that treating rats with dementia with Bacopa monnieri reduced free radical damage and reversed signs of memory impairment.

May help lower blood pressure levels

High blood pressure is a serious health concern, as it places strain on your heart and blood vessels. This can weaken your heart and increase your risk of heart disease.

Research suggests that Bacopa monnieri may help keep blood pressure within a healthy range.

In one animal study, Bacopa monnieri reduced both systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels. It did this by releasing nitric oxide, which helps dilate blood vessels, resulting in improved blood flow and lower blood pressure.

Based on current findings, Bacopa monnieri may lower blood pressure, but more human research is required to confirm these effects.

How to take Bacopa monnieri

Bacopa monnieri can be purchased online and from health food stores.

It’s available in several forms, including capsules and powders.

Typical dosages for Bacopa monnieri extract in human studies range from 300–450 mg per day, however, dosage recommendations can vary widely depending on the product you purchase.

The powdered form can be added to hot water to make a soothing tea. It can also be mixed with ghee (or some type of lipid) — a form of clarified butter — and added to warm water to make an herbal drink.

Contraindications:

Large doses (30-60g) taken long-term can lead to dizziness, and/or palpitations (diuresis leading to potassium Deficiency).
Contraindicated for those with “jaundice not due to Damp-Heat”. (A TCM diagnosis)
Use with caution for those who have diarrhea due to “Spleen Deficiency.” (A TCM diagnosis)
Concurrent use with diuretics such as chlorothiazide, hydrochlorothiazide, furosimide (Lasix), bumetanide (Bumex) and torsemide (Demadex) may lead to increased elimination of water and electrolytes.