• • Cognitive Support (Memory, Learning, Attention)
    • Traditionally used in Ayurveda for improving intellect, memory, and focus.
    • Mode of action:
    – Increases cerebral blood flow and enhances synaptic communication.
    – Modulates cholinergic systems: upregulates choline acetyltransferase and inhibits acetylcholinesterase (AChE), boosting acetylcholine.
    – Promotes synaptic plasticity and dendritic growth (shown in animal studies).
    • Human trials: improves memory acquisition and retention in healthy adults after 8–12 weeks.

  • Neuroprotective & Antioxidant
    • Protects neurons against oxidative stress and beta-amyloid toxicity.
    • Mode of action:
    – Bacosides (active compounds) scavenge free radicals and reduce lipid peroxidation.
    – Increases endogenous antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase).
    • Suggested to have potential in age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative conditions.

  • Mood & Stress Regulation
    • Traditionally considered calming and anxiolytic.
    • Mode of action:
    – Reduces activity of the HPA-axis, lowering cortisol response to stress.
    – Modulates serotonin and dopamine levels, contributing to mood stabilization.
    • Clinical studies show reduced anxiety and improved stress tolerance.

  • Anti-inflammatory & Analgesic
    • Used in Ayurveda for inflammatory conditions and pain.
    • Mode of action:
    – Suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6).
    – Inhibits cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), reducing inflammation.

  • Other Reported Benefits
    • May improve sleep quality (by GABA modulation).
    • Supportive for epilepsy (historical use), though evidence is limited.
    • Cardioprotective and hepatoprotective effects reported in animal studies.

Bacopa monnieri

Indian pennywort

• Key Medicinal Actions & Mode of Action