Supplements for Personal Performance ~ Bacopa

One of the gifts from my having built Pain-2-Power is that one focus of the platform is the use of supplements to improve energy, increase mood and decrease anxiety.  There are a number of very powerful, all natural, well-tested supplements that do just that.  This blog will focus on Bacopa, which is also known as Brahmi and is frequently used in the field of traditional Indian medicine called Ayurveda.

Bacopa grows in warm wetlands and is native to Australia and India.  It is said to have been used by ancient scholars to increase verbal memory, in order to memorize hymns and scriptures.

Multiple scientific studies have found that Bacopa seems to improve memory and learning.  It may also increase focus, increase mood (possibly by balancing serotonin levels) and decrease anxiety (perhaps by decreasing cortisol), in age groups ranging from 18 to the elderly.

Bacopa seems to protect brain cells that use the chemical messenger dopamine, which is also related to a sense of well-being.

Bacopa also has anti-inflammatory properties and seems to stimulate the immune system.

Bacopa’s overall safety has been established in multiple human studies.  In one animal study in which rats were given very large daily doses of Bacopa for three months, there were no adverse effects noted.  However, there are some human studies in which gastrointestinal side effects occurred in some people (such as mild diarrhea, stomach upset or nausea).  Pregnant women are advised not to take Bacopa.  It also may interact with some medications, including some antidepressants.  Of course, it is always advisable to review with your physician any supplement you plan to take.

Dr. Keith Ablow

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