Bacopa monnieri (brahmi)

Bacopa monnieri (brahmi) is an Ayurvedic herb sold as a supplement for memory and focus, including for children and adults with ADHD. Its benefit specifically for ADHD has not been shown: there is no solid evidence base for this use, and the few small studies do not confirm an effect. ADHD responds to other approaches, namely behavioral therapy and medicines with proven efficacy (stimulants, atomoxetine) chosen by a doctor. The herb itself is well tolerated in this role, but there is no basis for relying on it to treat ADHD.

ICD-10: F90.0 · ICD-11: 6A05

Bacopa monnieri (brahmi) is a herb from the Ayurvedic tradition, and its extract is sold as a supplement for memory and Alzheimer's disease. In Alzheimer-type dementia, bacopa has not shown convincing benefit, and there is no solid evidence for this use. What helps in Alzheimer's disease are cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine chosen by a doctor, together with care and family support. Do not take bacopa instead of prescribed treatment, since that can mean missing therapy with proven benefit.

ICD-10: G30 · ICD-11: 8A20

Bacopa is the top-selling «natural nootropic» in the biohacking segment, promising memory, processing speed and learning improvement. Kongkeaw 2014 (J Ethnopharmacol) meta-analysis reviewed 9 RCTs in 437 healthy adults: moderate cognitive test speed improvement after 12 weeks of 300–450 mg/day standardised bacopa extract; effect on memory and attention is ambiguous. No quality RCTs in Alzheimer or vascular dementia. NICE dementia 2018 (NG97) lists cholinesterase inhibitors (donepezil, rivastigmine, galantamine) and memantine first-line for Alzheimer; bacopa is not in guidelines. If bacopa was recommended for cognitive impairment or diagnosed dementia instead of workup and standard therapy, consider seeking a second opinion.

Bacopa monnieri (brahmi) is an Ayurvedic herb sold as a supplement for calmness and for easing stress and anxiety. There is no convincing evidence that it lowers anxiety or helps people cope with stress. For persistent anxiety, what actually helps is psychotherapy (especially cognitive behavioral therapy) and, when needed, medication prescribed by a doctor – worth discussing with a clinician.

ICD-10: F41.9 · ICD-11: 6B0Z