Bacopa, also known as Bacopa monnieri, is an herb used in traditional Ayurvedic treatment. Both plants are occasionally referred to as Brahmi, however gotu kola should not be confused with it. The creeping perennial herb known as bacopa monnieri is indigenous to wetlands in Europe, India, Africa, Australia, Asia, and North and South America.

• The therapeutic qualities of the entire plant are highly valued. People can consume the herb as dried, ground, and combined with ghee.
• In addition, the juice can be combined with milk or ghee, which is clarified butter.
• Bacopa can be purchased commercially in pill or capsule form, either by itself or in combination with other plants.
• Bitter leaves and sensitive shoots are eaten cooked. Also regarded as a brain tonic, claimed to improve memory if consumed with milk.

Bacopa monnieri has various health benefits may include:

• Improves cognitive functions and memory
• Alzheimer’s and ADHD
• Stress and anxiety
• Neuroinflammation
• Anti-ageing
• Snake bites

When administered for twelve weeks at a dose of up to 600 mg per day, bacopa may be safe. However, the most frequent adverse effects could be

• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Bloating
• Diarrhea 
• Abdominal cramps

Regarding Bacopa monnieri use in people, there hasn’t been any evidence of toxicity. Those with the following conditions need to exercise cautious:

• People with bradycardia, a slow heartbeat – should consult their doctor before taking bacopa supplements because doing so could worsen their condition and increase their risk of developing heart disease.
• Blockage of the gastrointestinal system – before taking Bacopa, people with GI blockage should consult their doctor because Bacopa can potentially exacerbate the condition.
• Ulcers – Bacopa may aggravate stomach ulcers; therefore, those who already have them should speak with their doctor before taking it.
• Lung diseases – Before using Bacopa, those with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) should consult a doctor because it may exacerbate these conditions.
• People with thyroid problems or those using thyroid hormone treatments –should use Bacopa cautiously or avoid it altogether since it may raise thyroid hormone levels.