Evidence supporting the use of: Bacosides (mixed)
For the body system: Serotonin
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2
Bacosides are the primary active compounds found in Bacopa monnieri, a traditional Ayurvedic herb. While Bacopa monnieri has a long history of use for enhancing memory and cognitive function, modern research has begun to explore its effects on neurotransmitter systems, including serotonin. Preclinical studies (in vitro and animal models) suggest that bacosides may influence serotonergic activity, potentially by modulating serotonin synthesis, release, or receptor sensitivity in the brain. For example, some studies have shown that Bacopa extracts can increase serotonin levels in specific brain regions of rodents, which may contribute to observed anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) and antidepressant-like effects in these models.
However, robust clinical evidence in humans directly linking bacosides or Bacopa supplementation to modulation of the serotonin system is limited. Most human studies have focused on cognitive outcomes rather than direct measurement of serotonin or its metabolites. Therefore, while there is some preclinical scientific rationale for the use of bacosides to support the serotonin system, clinical validation is currently insufficient. The rating reflects this gap between promising mechanistic data and conclusive human evidence.
Other ingredients that support Serotonin
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)amino acids
California poppy
cowage seed
hops
inositol
l-tryptophan
lactium casein decapeptide
lavender
magnesium
omega-3 fatty acids
passionflower
phytocannabinoids
polygala root
pyridoxal-5-phosphate (P-5-P)
rhodiola
saffron
SAMe (s-adenosyl-l-methionine disulfate p-toluensulfate)
sceletium
skullcap
vitamin B6
vitamin D
kanna
silk tree
St. John's Wort
5-Methoxytryptamine
Alpha lactalbumin
Baccosides
Bacopin
Brahmi
Bacopa
bacoside
Clary sage
Chocolate
Convolvulus prostratus
Convolvulus Pluricaulis
Celastrus
Dwarf Morning Glory
Other body systems supported by Bacosides (mixed)
AcetylcholineBrain
Hypothalamus
Nerves
Parasympathetic Nervous System
Serotonin