Full profile
| Also known as | Brahmi, Bacopa |
|---|---|
| Best for | Memory support · Learning over weeks · Daily cognitive routine |
| Evidence grade | Grade B — Moderate — several human trials, some mixed results |
| Studied dose range | 300–600 mg daily of a standardized extract (commonly ~50% bacosides). |
| Time to effect | Typically studied over 8–12 weeks of daily use. |
| Best form | Standardized extract stating bacoside percentage. |
Evidence, honestly graded
Multiple human trials over 8–12 weeks report memory and learning measures. Benefits are cumulative rather than acute.
See the full grading rubric — study type, replication, population match, and dose adequacy — in The Evidence Standard.
Side effects
- GI upset, especially on an empty stomach
- Occasional fatigue reported
Who should avoid it or check first
- Pregnant or breastfeeding without clinician guidance
- On thyroid medication without review
Interactions
- May interact with thyroid and sedative medications — discuss with a clinician
Stacks well with
- Citicoline
- L-Theanine
Use caution stacking with
- Additional sedating herbs without guidance
What to look for on a label
- Look for the bacoside standardization percentage.
- Take with food to reduce GI upset.
References
- Calabrese C, Gregory WL, Leo M, et al. (2008). Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 14(6):707–713Improved delayed word recall and attention/inhibition (Stroop) versus placebo.
- Morgan A, Stevens J (2010). Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 16(7):753–759Improved verbal learning and delayed recall on the AVLT versus placebo.
Grades and studied doses are our conservative reading of the human research, shown for education. They are not product claims, and a studied dose is not a recommended dose.
See how Bacopa Monnieri compares on grade, dose, and goal in the Evidence Explorer.
