Well, you may eat superfoods, exercise, and workout—but one sure-short remedy for your optimal brain health is an ancient Indian Ayurvedic herb, which is making waves in the wellness world globally.

Say hello to bacopa—also known as Brahmi—the powerhouse plant that has been around for centuries thanks to its reputed memory-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties. However, it has become the latest must-have for supplement fans looking to sharpen their minds and boost their cognitive performance even in the West, off late.

According to studies, Brahmi boosts brain function and alleviates anxiety and stress, apart from treating epilepsy.

In a study published by BGS Global Institutes of Medical Sciences last year, around 80 participants took 300 milligrams of bacopa every morning for 12 weeks and showed significant improvements in memory, focus, concentration, alertness, and mental flexibility. However, the benefits started kicking in after just two weeks, with memory improvements hitting clinical significance by week four.

Brahmi is packed with antioxidants, which help protect against cell damage caused by free radicals. Studies say that damage is linked to many chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and many kinds of cancers. It also contains powerful compounds that have many kinds of antioxidant effects.

Experts say when fat molecules react with free radicals, they undergo lipid peroxidation—a process linked to several conditions like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and other neurodegenerative disorders. The herb is also instrumental in reducing and suppressing the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines - molecules that stimulate an inflammatory immune response.

Bacopa enhances brain function by improving spatial learning and the ability to retain information. It also helps increase dendritic length and branching and improves the speed of processing visual information, learning rate, and memory.

Brahmi is also instrumental in reducing symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Syndrome, which affects millions of children and adults in the US. According to studies, bacopa can be the natural remedy for restlessness and focus issues. Healthline says a study in 31 children aged 6-12 years found that taking 225 mg of Bacopa monnieri extract daily for six months significantly reduced ADHD symptoms like restlessness, poor self-control, inattention, and impulsivity in 85 per cent of the children.

A more recent study of 112 males aged 6–14 years with ADHD found cognitive, mood, and sleep benefits but saw no effect on behavioural outcomes.

Apart from taking care of your cognitive health, Brahmi is also instrumental in preventing anxiety and stress—taking care of your mental health. It is considered an adaptogenic herb; it increases your body’s resistance to stress. Experts say bacopa elevates your mood and reduces levels of cortisol, a hormone that is closely linked to heightened stress levels.

While bacopa can be purchased online and from Ayurvedic health food stores, it is available in various forms, including capsules and powders. Typical dosages for bacopa extract in human studies range from 300-450 mg daily. However, it is important to note that dosage recommendations vary widely depending on what product you purchase. If you have questions regarding dosage, make sure to consult a doctor to ensure your safety.

The powdered form can also be added to hot water to make a soothing tea. It can also be mixed with ghee and added to warm water to make an herbal drink.

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