Health and Me

Riya Baibhawi

This Easily Available Ayurvedic Herb Can Prevent Dementia

Since its origin in India 3000 years ago, <span>Ayurveda</span> has been solving physical and mental health issues across the world. Johns Hopkins University describes it as a whole-body (holistic) system of medicine, which means the study of life. It takes a natural approach to all aspects of health and well-being. While there are a few herbs like Tulsi and <span>Ashwagandha</span> that have gained popularity worldwide, there is a lesser-known herb that can boost your brain health multiplefolds.

<h2>What Is <span rel="noindex">Bacopa</span>?</h2>Bacopa, a powerful plant long used in traditional Indian Ayurvedic medicine, is now capturing attention for its reputed memory-enhancing and anti-inflammatory effects. Often sought after by supplement users eager to sharpen their minds and enhance cognitive performance, bacopa has quietly become a trending ingredient in the wellness space.

Recent studies suggest that bacopa may be a valuable tool for improving memory, especially as people age. According to an analysis by beauty trend tracker Spate shared with Happi, online interest is surging, with the herb seeing approximately 2,000 Google searches per month — a 115% increase year over year.

Preliminary research into bacopa's effects on brain health is promising. In a study published last year, 80 participants took either 300 milligrams of bacopa or a placebo daily for 12 weeks. Those who consumed bacopa showed notable improvements in memory, focus, concentration, alertness, and mental flexibility. Benefits began appearing after two weeks, with memory enhancements reaching clinical significance by week four.

Although scientists are still exploring the mechanisms behind bacopa’s brain-boosting effects, current hypotheses point to its ability to protect nerve cells, reduce inflammation, regulate stress hormones, and influence neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin. Its antioxidant properties may also help combat oxidative stress, a factor linked to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Bacopa is also being explored as a potential natural aid for ADHD, a condition affecting millions of children and adults. Some early research has yielded encouraging results. One study involving children aged 6 to 12 found that a daily dose of 225 milligrams helped with symptoms like impulsivity, restlessness, and attention difficulties over a six-month period.

However, other research has not been as definitive. A separate trial on adolescents taking 160 to 320 milligrams daily for 14 weeks found no improvement in core ADHD symptoms — though participants did report better sleep, mood, and cognitive performance.

Despite these mixed findings, interest in bacopa as an ADHD remedy is growing fast, especially on platforms like TikTok, where the hashtag #ADHD is now the most-viewed bacopa-related tag, garnering an average of 4,700 weekly views, according to Spate.

Bacopa's potential health benefits may extend beyond memory and attention. Researchers are investigating its effects on anxiety, depression, inflammation, insomnia, and even addiction to cigarette and nicotine. 

In a 2021 study involving 100 adults with poor sleep, participants who took a 150-milligram bacopa supplement twice daily for 28 days did not report significant sleep improvements. However, they did experience less pain and greater overall emotional and physical well-being.

Bacopa supplements are available in various forms, including capsules, powders, liquids, and tablets. While the herb is generally considered safe, some individuals may experience mild side effects like dry mouth, stomach upset, or fatigue.

Health Conditions A-Z

health

Ayurveda

ashwagandha

Bacopa

Ayurveda for brain health

Solution for dementia

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Since its origin in India 3000 years ago, Ayurveda has been solving physical and mental health issues across the world. Johns Hopkins University describes it as a whole-body (holistic) system of medicine, which means the study of life. It takes a natural approach to all aspects of health and well-being. While there are a few herbs like Tulsi and Ashwagandha that have gained popularity worldwide, there is a lesser-known herb that can boost your brain health multiplefolds.What Is Bacopa?Bacopa, a powerful plant long used in traditional Indian Ayurvedic medicine, is now capturing attention for its reputed memory-enhancing and anti-inflammatory effects. Often sought after by supplement users eager to sharpen their minds and enhance cognitive performance, bacopa has quietly become a trending ingredient in the wellness space.Recent studies suggest that bacopa may be a valuable tool for improving memory, especially as people age. According to an analysis by beauty trend tracker Spate shared with Happi, online interest is surging, with the herb seeing approximately 2,000 Google searches per month — a 115% increase year over year.Boosting Brain PowerPreliminary research into bacopa's effects on brain health is promising. In a study published last year, 80 participants took either 300 milligrams of bacopa or a placebo daily for 12 weeks. Those who consumed bacopa showed notable improvements in memory, focus, concentration, alertness, and mental flexibility. Benefits began appearing after two weeks, with memory enhancements reaching clinical significance by week four.Although scientists are still exploring the mechanisms behind bacopa’s brain-boosting effects, current hypotheses point to its ability to protect nerve cells, reduce inflammation, regulate stress hormones, and influence neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin. Its antioxidant properties may also help combat oxidative stress, a factor linked to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.Bacopa And ADHD: Still UnclearBacopa is also being explored as a potential natural aid for ADHD, a condition affecting millions of children and adults. Some early research has yielded encouraging results. One study involving children aged 6 to 12 found that a daily dose of 225 milligrams helped with symptoms like impulsivity, restlessness, and attention difficulties over a six-month period.However, other research has not been as definitive. A separate trial on adolescents taking 160 to 320 milligrams daily for 14 weeks found no improvement in core ADHD symptoms — though participants did report better sleep, mood, and cognitive performance.Despite these mixed findings, interest in bacopa as an ADHD remedy is growing fast, especially on platforms like TikTok, where the hashtag #ADHD is now the most-viewed bacopa-related tag, garnering an average of 4,700 weekly views, according to Spate.Beyond Brain HealthBacopa's potential health benefits may extend beyond memory and attention. Researchers are investigating its effects on anxiety, depression, inflammation, insomnia, and even addiction to cigarette and nicotine. In a 2021 study involving 100 adults with poor sleep, participants who took a 150-milligram bacopa supplement twice daily for 28 days did not report significant sleep improvements. However, they did experience less pain and greater overall emotional and physical well-being.Bacopa supplements are available in various forms, including capsules, powders, liquids, and tablets. While the herb is generally considered safe, some individuals may experience mild side effects like dry mouth, stomach upset, or fatigue.