What is it about?
This systematic review brings together evidence on Bacopa monnieri (also known as brahmi), a small wetland plant used for centuries in traditional medicine as a “brain tonic.” The authors analyzed over twenty clinical trials that tested Bacopa in people of different ages, from children with hyperactivity to older adults with memory loss or dementia. Results show that Bacopa can improve memory, attention, learning, mood, and sleep quality, while also lowering signs of brain inflammation and oxidative stress—two major drivers of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. The herb’s natural compounds, especially bacosides, seem to protect neurons, support mitochondria (the cell’s energy factories), and prevent harmful cell death.
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Why is it important?
As the world population ages, dementia and other neurodegenerative conditions are becoming a massive health challenge. Current drugs often bring limited benefits and unpleasant side effects. This review highlights Bacopa as a safe, plant-based option with potential to support brain function and slow decline. It adds weight to the idea that natural compounds can complement modern therapies, opening doors to affordable and widely accessible strategies for cognitive health.
Perspectives
What strikes me most about this review is how traditional knowledge and modern science meet. A plant long valued in Ayurveda is now being tested with rigorous clinical tools, and the results are promising. I see this as a way of broadening our approach to brain health: instead of relying only on synthetic drugs, we can combine them with natural, well-studied remedies to better protect the brain as we age.
Dr. Rosa Direito
Universidade de Lisboa
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Investigating the Neuroprotective and Cognitive-Enhancing Effects of Bacopa monnieri: A Systematic Review Focused on Inflammation, Oxidative Stress, Mitochondrial Dysfunction, and Apoptosis, Antioxidants, March 2024, MDPI AG,
DOI: 10.3390/antiox13040393.
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