Bacopa Monnieri

Species Name: bacopa monnieri.

Also known as: Water Hyssop and brahmi. Thyme-leafed gratiola and Moneywort.

If you want to enhance your memory or improve your intelligence, this herb may indeed help you do that. Recent studies are indicative that the herb may indeed have the cognitive properties that are reported.

What is Bacopa Monnieri? Bacopa monnieri is a perennial creeping herb in wetlands and muddy shores. The plants’ leaves are succulent and relatively thick with small white flowers that have four or five petals.

The leaves are somewhat long and arrange opposite on the stem. Because of its ability to grow in water, it is a popular plant for aquariums.

The plant commonly grows in marshy areas and tends grow throughout India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, China, Taiwan, Florida and some other southern states in the United States where damp conditions allow it to grow by the bond or bog garden.

Home Remedies using Bacopa Monnieri:

Benefits and Uses of Bacopa Monnieri:

According to Auyrvedic medicine techniques, brahmi has antioxidant properties. Recent reports show its ability to reduce oxidation of fats in the blood stream, one of the major risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

For centuries, its use has included that of assisting with epilepsy, memory capacity, increased concentration, and reducing stress-related anxiety. Its classification is that of a nootropic, that it is a drug, which enhances the body’s cognitive ability.

In India, one of its traditional uses is that of consecrating newborn babies, in the belief that the plant will open the gateway of intelligence for these infants. Strange as that may seem, recent studies are indicative that this herb may improve intellectual activity.

New studies show that bacopa could improve memory in adults. In ayurvedic medicine, bacopa monierri is used as a natural cure for memory problems.

Recent tests on rodents also show that it has antioxidant abilities including that of preventing the stomach from allowing ulcers to form.

• Improved memory, mental clarity, and longevity
• Treatment of epilepsy
• Use as a mild sedative
• Improvement in intellect, consciousness, and mental acuity
• Calming of the mind and promotion of relaxation by increasing protein synthesis and activity in the body’s brain cells
• Decreasing anxiety, restlessness, and senility
• Most common of all its uses is that of improving mental alertness and enhancing learning and academic performance
• Fresh herb where available
• As a dietary supplement in pharmacies, health food stores, and other places where herbal supplements are available

Side Effects of Bacopa Monnieri:

There are no known side effects from short-term use of this herb, but the long-term side effects are not known at this time. The best method of use to prevent any potential long-term side effects is to take a break from use on a routine basis.