Indian researchers say that bacopa, a plant that grows in tropical regions, could boost cognitive functions. Inexpensive (around 6 euros), food supplements containing bacopa extract would have significant effects on memory, concentration, vigilance and reasoning capacity.
A decrease in the level of hormones linked to stress and anxiety
Their study was carried out on 80 people aged 18 to 55. The cohort was divided into two groups. The first group was to take 300 mg of bacopa extract and the other group was to take a placebo.
Participants were subjected to tests at the start and end of the experience, which lasted three months. They notably carried out exercises aimed at assessing their memory: repeat a series of figures after hearing it once, memorizing the location and order of squares on a screen and searching for a specific object in a congested space. Their cognitive capacities have also been evaluated, for example their concentration with the production of puzzles.
The researchers report that the participants who took Bacopa obtained better results in the exercises, compared to the placebo group. Bacopa group participants also saw their hormone levels related to stress and anxiety decrease.
Finally, the authors of this work published in the Journal of Psychiatry and Cognitive Behaviour, noted that the Bacopa group presented a high rate of a protein associated with the production of new cells in the brain.
A plant that has become popular on Tiktok
The numerous benefits of bacopa on the brain would be linked to the presence of substances called bacosides, known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
This is not the first time that Bacopa has been praised for its benefits on the brain. This plant has become popular on social networks, especially on Tiktok, where there are videos that claim that the plant could boost the memory of people with Alzheimer’s disease at an early stage.
Watch out for side effects
Independent experts are more cautious about his allegations and warn the possible adverse effects of bacopa supplementation.
Invited to comment on this study, Professor James Goodwin, an expert in aging science, recalls that Bacopa can reduce the effectiveness of certain drugs. “” “This plant inhibits an important chemical mediator in the brain: acetylcholine. Therefore, it can thwart the effects of cholinergic drugs for diseases such as dementia, glaucoma and urinary retention ”.
Bacopa can also cause digestive problems such as nausea and stomach aches. This is why his consumption is not recommended for people with stomach ulcers or irritable colon syndrome.
Even if the results of this Indian study are promising, the experts consider that there is not enough evidence to associate these health benefits with the taking of Bacopa. It is also important to specify that this clinical trial has been funded by a company that markets food supplements based on Bacopa…