Plantaginaceae
Bacopa
Bacopa monnieri
✓ Generally Safe
Caution in Pregnancy
Native to: India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Wetlands of Asia
Also known as: Brahmi, Water Hyssop, Herb of Grace, Indian Pennywort
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Parts Used
LeafStem
Therapeutic Uses
Memory enhancement (multiple RCTs confirm improved recall, processing speed, learning), anxiety reduction, ADHD (evidence for children), Alzheimer's support, epilepsy (adjunct), age-related cognitive decline. Central herb of Ayurvedic medicine for intellect.
Herbal Actions
Nootropic (cognitive enhancer), anxiolytic, adaptogen, antioxidant, antiepileptic, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective
Active Constituents
Bacosides A and B (triterpenoid saponins — primary actives), bacosaponins, alkaloids (brahmine, herpestine), flavonoids (luteolin, apigenin), phenylethanoids
Preparation Methods
💊 Capsule🏺 Tincture🍵 Decoction
Traditional Preparation Notes
| Herbal Tea | 1 tsp dried herb per 250ml, steep 10 min, 1–2x daily |
| Tincture | 3–5 ml (1:5, 40% ethanol), 2x daily |
| Notes | Standardized extract (20% bacosides): 300–450mg daily with food (fat-soluble actives — take with meal). Cognitive benefits require 8–12 weeks of continuous use. Children (ADHD): 225mg daily. Best taken with ghee/fat in Ayurvedic tradition. |
Safety Information
Safety Rating
✓ Generally Safe
Pregnancy
Caution in Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
Possible — consult doctor
Contraindications: Avoid with sedatives and thyroid medications. May potentiate phenytoin. Caution in hypothyroidism (may reduce T4). GI side effects if taken without food.
Side Effects: Nausea, cramping, fatigue if taken without food. Dry mouth. Generally well tolerated with food. Rare allergic reactions.