What it is
Bacopa Monnieri, also called Brahmi, is a creeping wetland herb used in Ayurvedic practice for centuries, mostly for memory and learning.
What it does in Memoclear
Bacopa is the traditional memory herb in the formula. Its active compounds, called bacosides, have been studied for effects on memory and on the speed of processing information. It does not fit neatly into one of the three pathways; it is included because of its long track record.
What the research says
Of the six ingredients, Bacopa has the most memory-specific trials in healthy adults. Several placebo-controlled studies of 8 to 12 weeks have reported improvements in memory tests, though the size of the effect varies. Almost no studies show anything in the first few weeks, which is why patience matters.
Who should be careful
Bacopa is usually taken with food because it can cause stomach upset on an empty stomach. It may increase secretions in the lungs and gut, so people with asthma or ulcers should ask their doctor. It can also interact with some thyroid and sedative medicines.
Where it sits in the formula
Bacopa Monnieri works alongside the other five ingredients: Ginkgo Biloba, Huperzia Serrata, Phosphatidylserine, Vitamin B12, N-Acetyl L-Carnitine. Together they cover blood flow, brain cell walls, memory messengers, nerve function and cell energy in one daily capsule.
Further reading
Bacopa Monnieri and memory, PubMed. This research is on the ingredient, not on the finished Memoclear product.