Evidence supporting the use of: Bacopasaponin (unspecified)
For the body system: Acetylcholine

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Table of Contents

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Bacopasaponins are a class of active compounds found in Bacopa monnieri, a traditional Ayurvedic herb. The use of Bacopa in traditional medicine is primarily for enhancing memory and cognitive function. In modern scientific research, Bacopa extracts, particularly those standardized to bacosides (a subset of bacopasaponins), have attracted interest for their potential effects on neurotransmitters such as acetylcholine.

Several animal studies and a few small human trials indicate that Bacopa extracts may support cholinergic function. For example, preclinical studies have shown that Bacopa can increase acetylcholine levels in the hippocampus, inhibit acetylcholinesterase (the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine), and enhance cholinergic transmission, all of which are associated with cognitive benefits. These effects are believed to arise, in part, from the action of bacopasaponins, though most studies use whole plant extracts or standardized bacoside preparations rather than isolated saponins.

In summary, while there is scientific evidence suggesting that Bacopa and its saponins may support the acetylcholine system, the evidence base is moderate, with most data coming from animal studies and a limited number of human trials using whole extracts. Thus, the evidence rating is 3 out of 5, reflecting promising preliminary findings but a need for further well-controlled human studies focusing specifically on bacopasaponins and acetylcholine.

More about Bacopasaponin (unspecified)
More about Acetylcholine

Other body systems supported by Bacopasaponin (unspecified)

Acetylcholine
Brain
Immune System
Nerves
Parasympathetic Nervous System
Serotonin

Products containing Bacopasaponin (unspecified)

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.