Evidence supporting the use of: Bacosine
For the body system: Acetylcholine

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Synopsis

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

Bacosine is one of the key active constituents found in Bacopa monnieri, a traditional Ayurvedic herb also known as Brahmi. Bacopa is widely studied for its cognitive-enhancing effects, and numerous preclinical and some clinical studies suggest its constituents, including bacosine, contribute to these effects by modulating the cholinergic system, which centers on the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Experimental data (mainly from animal studies) indicate that Bacopa extracts may increase acetylcholine levels in the brain, inhibit acetylcholinesterase (the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine), and upregulate choline acetyltransferase (the enzyme that synthesizes acetylcholine). While most research focuses on Bacopa as a whole extract and its predominant saponins (bacosides), there is emerging evidence that bacosine also plays a role in these mechanisms, though its specific contribution is less well-characterized compared to bacosides.

Clinical studies in humans using Bacopa extracts (not isolated bacosine) have demonstrated modest improvements in memory and cognitive function, presumed to be mediated in part by effects on acetylcholine pathways. However, direct evidence for bacosine alone in supporting the acetylcholine system is limited. Thus, while the use of Bacopa (and by extension, its constituents such as bacosine) for supporting the acetylcholine system is supported by a moderate level of scientific evidence, more research is needed to isolate bacosine’s specific effects.

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Other body systems supported by Bacosine

Acetylcholine
Brain
Nerves

Products containing Bacosine

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