Bacopa monnieri, also known as Brahmi, has a long-standing history in traditional Ayurvedic medicine as a cognitive enhancer. In recent years, scientific interest has focused on its effects on the cholinergic system, particularly acetylcholine, which is a neurotransmitter critical for memory and learning. Preclinical studies suggest that Bacopa monnieri extract can enhance acetylcholine levels in the brain. For example, animal studies have shown that Bacopa may increase the activity of choline acetyltransferase (the enzyme responsible for acetylcholine synthesis) and inhibit acetylcholinesterase (the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine), thereby potentially boosting acetylcholine availability in synaptic clefts.

Some small-scale human trials have also reported cognitive improvements, especially in memory performance, which may relate to cholinergic mechanisms. However, direct measurement of acetylcholine levels in humans after Bacopa supplementation is limited, and most human studies have focused on cognitive endpoints rather than direct neurotransmitter changes. Therefore, while animal and in vitro studies provide a mechanistic rationale and some clinical data support cognitive benefits, the direct impact of Bacopa monnieri on the acetylcholine system in humans still requires more robust and targeted research. Overall, the use of Bacopa monnieri to support the acetylcholine system is supported by scientific evidence, but the strength of the evidence is moderate.