Herbal Extract
Cognance™ (Bacopa monnieri) Extract
Also known as: Bacopa monnieri, Brahmi, Water hyssop, Bacopa extract
Bacopa monnieri is a traditional Ayurvedic herb with published research supporting potential benefits for memory, cognitive function, and anxiety. The Cognance™ formulation is standardized to contain 10% Ebelin lactone, a bioactive constituent group.
Primary uses
- Memory and cognitive function support
- Mental clarity and focus
- Anxiety management
- Neuroprotection
How it works
- Modulation of acetylcholine and other neurotransmitters
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in the brain
- Enhancement of dendritic density and synaptic plasticity
- Potential GABA-related anxiolytic activity
Dosage
- Typical range
- 250–600 mg daily of standardized extract
- Timing
- Divided into morning and afternoon doses, or as directed
- With food
- Can be taken with or without food; taking with food may improve tolerability
- Duration
- Benefits typically appear after 4–12 weeks of consistent use; longer studies (8–12 weeks) show stronger cognitive effects
- Special populations
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: limited safety data; avoid or consult healthcare provider
Forms
- Capsule· 70/100
- Extract powder· 70/100
- Standardized extract· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, diarrhea, constipation)
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Headache (mild)
- Dry mouth
Contraindications
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding (insufficient safety data)
- Active peptic ulcer disease
- Concurrent use with anticonvulsants (potential additive effects)
Evidence notes
Multiple controlled trials demonstrate improvements in memory retention and processing speed; consistent evidence for anxiety reduction in clinical populations. Standardized extracts (like those containing bacosides or ebelin lactones) show stronger evidence than unstandardized forms. Grade B reflects good-quality evidence, though human RCT data is more limited compared to common supplements.
Grade B: Some human trials support key claims; further confirmation needed.
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