Bacopa monniera, also know as Water Hyssop, or simply Bacopa, is a prominent remedy in Ayurveda, a holistic system of medicine that originated in India. Historically, the use of Bacopa dates back to the sixth century. Today, practitioners of Ayurveda recognize Bacopa as an adaptogen, a physiological agent that naturally increases the body’s resistance to physical and emotional stress.
Modern research indicates that the active components derived from Bacopa provide positive support for:

• Focus, attention span, concentration, memory, mental sharpness and other healthy cognitive functions
• Mental and physical fatigue caused by emotional stress
• Occasional nervousness, nervous tension and anxiety
• Healthy immune system function

Bacopa is well tolerated and maintains an excellent safety profile. To date, medical literature confirms that there have been no adverse reactions related to the use of Bacopa as a dietary supplement.

The majority of contemporary research has focused on the broad spectrum of activity Bacopa demonstrates in the Central Nervous System (CNS). Recent studies indicate that Bacosides, the primary active components of Bacopa, enhance nerve impulse transmission, which may help to promote healthy cognitive functions like focus, concentration, attention span, learning and memory. Preliminary laboratory results also suggest that Bacopa influences the production and availability of the neurotransmitter Serotonin; therefore it is thought that Bacopa may help to provide positive support for healthy neurotransmitter balance.

Bacopa has been identified in clinical analysis as an adaptogen, meaning it increases the body’s resistance to a wide range of chemical, biological and physical stressors. Scientists believe that Bacopa likely affects multiple body systems to promote emotional wellbeing, physical endurance and mental sharpness.

Bacopa maintains an excellent safety profile when used as directed. In adults and teenagers 14 and older, a dose of 125 to 500 milligrams is recommended to promote healthy cognitive functions such as focus, attention span, concentration, memory and mental sharpness. In children between the ages of seven and 13, a dose of 25 to 100 milligrams is sufficient to support healthy neurological function.

Side effects are rare and have been documented as mild in clinical studies. They may include gastrointestinal discomfort. In the event that you or your child experiences an adverse reaction, discontinue use of this herb. Bacopa does not cause withdrawal or discontinuation effects.

Bacopa is generally well tolerated when used by children between the ages of seven and 13. Because each child is different, Bacopa should not be administered without the supervision of a professional healthcare provider.

Taking Bacopa in combination with prescription medications such as benzodiazepines, SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) or SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors) may cause drowsiness. If you or your child is taking a prescription medication, it is recommended that you consult with your prescribing doctor before making any changes or additions to a current treatment plan.

Consult with your healthcare provider before beginning a wellness plan that includes dietary supplements like Bacopa