The Chronic Effects of an Extract
of Bacopa monniera (Brahmi) on
Cognitive Function in Healthy Human Subjects

This section is compiled by Frank M. Painter, D.C.
Send all comments or additions to:    Frankp@chiro.org

FROM:   Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2001 (Aug); 156 (4): 481–484

Stough C, Lloyd J, Clarke J, Downey LA, Hutchison CW, Rodgers T, Nathan PJ

Neuropsychology Laboratory,
School of Biophysical Science and Electrical Engineering,
Victoria, Australia

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RATIONALE:   Extracts of Bacopa monniera have been reported to exert cognitive enhancing effects in animals. However, the effects on human cognition are inconclusive.

OBJECTIVE:   The current study examined the chronic effects of an extract of B. monniera (Keenmind) on cognitive function in healthy human subjects.

METHODS:   The study was a double-blind placebo-controlled independent-group design in which subjects were randomly allocated to one of two treatment conditions, B. monniera (300 mg) or placebo. Neuropsychological testing was conducted pre-(baseline) and at 5 and 12 weeks post drug administration.

RESULTS:   B. monniera significantly improved speed of visual information processing measured by the IT task, learning rate and memory consolidation measured by the AVLT (P<0.05), and state anxiety (P<0.001) compared to placebo, with maximal effects evident after 12 weeks.

CONCLUSIONS:   These findings suggest that B. monniera may improve higher order cognitive processes that are critically dependent on the input of information from our environment such as learning and memory.

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