Evidence supporting the use of: Bacopa monnieri
For the health condition: Attention Deficit Disorder
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2
Bacopa monnieri, also known as Brahmi, is a traditional Ayurvedic herb with a long history of use for enhancing cognitive function. Its application for Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD/ADHD) is primarily based on its purported effects on memory, learning, and attention. Over the past two decades, a modest body of scientific research has investigated these claims. Several small, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials in children with ADHD have reported modest improvements in attention, cognitive processing, and impulse control following Bacopa supplementation (e.g., Kean et al., 2016; Sharma et al., 2016). The herb is believed to exert its effects through antioxidant activity, modulation of neurotransmitters (such as acetylcholine), and neuroprotective mechanisms. However, the overall evidence remains limited due to small sample sizes, short study durations, and variability in formulation and dosage.
Systematic reviews (e.g., Kongkeaw et al., 2014; Pase et al., 2012) conclude that Bacopa may have a small positive effect on cognitive performance, but emphasize that data specific to ADD/ADHD are preliminary and insufficient for robust clinical recommendations. No major international guidelines endorse Bacopa as a primary or adjunctive treatment for ADD/ADHD. Thus, while there is some emerging scientific support, the strength of evidence is low to moderate, justifying a conservative rating.
More about Bacopa monnieri
More about Attention Deficit Disorder
Other ingredients used for Attention Deficit Disorder
acetyl l-carnitineamino acids
ashwagandha
caffeine
citicoline
ginkgo biloba
ginseng
iron
l-theanine
l-tyrosine
magnesium
omega-3 fatty acids
phosphatidylserine
rhodiola
vitamin B
vitamin B6
zinc
herbal blend (proprietary)
1,3,7-Trimethylpurine-2,6-dione
Adrenergic amines
Brahmi
Bacopa
Catecholamine
Dopamine
Other health conditions supported by Bacopa monnieri
Alzheimer's DiseaseAnxiety
Anxiety Disorders
Attention Deficit Disorder
Dementia
Depression
Diabetes
Fatigue
Inflammation
Insomnia
Memory and Brain Function
Migraine
Parkinson's Disease
Stress
Thinking (cloudy)