An aquatic plant native to India, Bacopa Monnieri or water hyssop is a botanical variety known since ancient times. It is used in herbal medicine for its interesting properties against persistent insomnia and anxiety, and is also effective on some mental processes, such as concentration and memory.
But it is above all in the context of the millenary tradition of Ayurveda that this plant is used and known as an antioxidant and to counteract cellular aging and the formation of free radicals.
Known as water hyssop, in India it is called ‘Brahmi ‘, referring to the god Brahma, revered in the Hindu religion. This aquatic plant was used since ancient times as a natural remedy.
Let’s find out the applications and how to best use it.
Bacopa monnieri: where does it come from
This is the scientific name for the most widespread variety of this plant , a creeping perennial herb native to the wetlands of southern and eastern India. However, it grows spontaneously also in areas other than the Asian continent, such as Europe and Australia.
Bacopa: the plant
This herbaceous plant belonging to the Scrofulariaceae family. It stands out for its thick leaves and its small white flowers. Flowering generally occurs between the months of April and September.
Bacopa: the therapeutic properties
Thanks to the substances present in it, this plant can boast interesting antioxidant properties. In particular, there are good concentrations of vitamin C, flavonoids, saponins and mineral salts, such as iron, calcium and phosphorus.
The main benefits of this botanical species are associated with the active ingredients present in it. For example, these include bacosaponin, birch acid and beta-sisterol.
Bacopa: what is it for
The uses of this botanical variety are linked to both the therapeutic properties and the aesthetic beauty of its flowers. In the first case it is used as a natural remedy, especially in the Ayurveda tradition.
In the second case, however, it is used for essentially decorative purposes. Furthermore, thanks to its antioxidant properties, its plant extracts are used in cosmetics for the preparation of anti-aging creams and lotions.
Bacopa and the aquarium
One of the possible uses of this botanical species is inside aquariums. The plant adapts easily to this type of environment and tends to grow very quickly.
Bacopa: the benefits
Thanks to its antioxidant action, this botanical species is a natural remedy useful for preventing and countering cellular aging and the formation of free radicals.
The beneficial action on mental processes is instead associated with the effect of the active ingredients present in the plant. In particular, there is a beneficial effect on the nervous system in terms of improving attention and concentration, with more effective memorization performance.
The effect of the extract of this plant as a real natural anxiolytic is also well known.
Bacopa for insomnia
In the tradition of Ayurvedic medicine, brahmi extract can be taken to counteract persistent insomnia.
Bacopa: when to take it
In Ayurveda its extracts are used for the treatment of insomnia or for a greater efficiency of cognitive abilities.
Bacopa as a supplement
The extract of this botanical variety can be purchased on the market in the form of a supplement.
Recently the extracts obtained from this plant in the list of plants allowed for use in supplements.
The physiological effects recognized to the parts of the plant are those related to memory and cognitive functions, to relaxation, especially during sleep and, more generally, to mental well-being.
Bacopa in drops
It can be available in both drops, capsules or tablets.
Bacopa-based supplement: contraindications
Following the indicated dosages, the intake should not present particular contraindications. However, it is important to evaluate the appearance of any side effects. Among the side effects found in the literature, nausea and gastrointestinal disturbances stand out as adverse reactions associated with the consumption of the extracts of this medicinal plant.
In particular, its use should be limited or avoided in case of hypersensitivity to the plant components. It is also better to avoid administration to children and adolescents or to pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Bacopa: cultivation of the plant
In addition to its multiple phytotherapeutic uses, this medicinal plant can also be grown for ornamental purposes. The favorite natural habitat of this botanical species is that of marshy and humid areas.
The plant grows spontaneously around lakes, streams or stagnations of water. Thanks to its speed of growth and its ability to adapt, it can also be used as a plant for aquariums. Ideal conditions include exposure in partially bright places.
Furthermore, the preference is for cold waters although it also tolerates waters with a temperature of about 30 °.
