- Plantaginaceae
- Whole herb, cut
- Wetlands of India · Sri Lanka
- Dried herb, for infusion
Bacopa
Bacopa monnieri
Select sizeThe plant
Bacopa is a small creeping water-loving plant with fleshy leaves and delicate pale flowers. The above-ground parts are used in herbal preparations.
What's in it
Bacosides are a group of natural compounds found in bacopa. They belong to the saponin family—plant substances that can form foam in water. Bacosides are among bacopa’s best-known natural constituents.
Bacosides
Triterpenoid saponins, named after the plant. The marker compounds.
Bacopasides
A related saponin group, catalogued more recently.
Alkaloids
Including brahmine, named from the Sanskrit.
Sterols
Present in the aerial parts in small amounts.
How it works
Memory and focus: Bacopa is traditionally valued for remembering, learning and calm concentration. These are the everyday skills involved in taking in information and recalling it later. A mind tonic: In Ayurveda, this means a herb traditionally chosen to support mental function over time. Bacopa has a longstanding place in routines for study and thoughtful work. Calm attention: Its traditional appeal combines a settled mind with focus, making it a well-known herb in Ayurvedic approaches to mental wellbeing.
In the tradition
In Ayurveda, bacopa is one of the herbs called brahmi and has a long tradition of use by students, scholars and those seeking calm concentration.
Bacopa naturally thrives around water, and its juicy leaves help it flourish in wet ground where many herbs struggle.
- 1Steep 1–2 tsp of dried bacopa in 250ml hot water, covered, for 8–10 mins, then strain.
- 2Drink 1–2 cups daily.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and moisture. Best used within 12–24 months.
- May not suit everyone’s digestion.
- Check before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or when taking medicines.
- On thyroid medication: may affect hormone levels.
- On sedatives or anti-anxiety medication: may enhance effects.
- Slow digestive transit: may slow gut motility further.
- Children under 5.
A food supplement, not a substitute for a varied diet. Speak to your doctor before use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking medication.
Common questions
How do I prepare bacopa?
Bacopa is steeped as an infusion. Steep 1–2 tsp of dried bacopa in 250ml hot water, covered, for 8–10 mins, then strain. Full directions are in the How to use panel above. See also: Infusion vs decoction.
What is bacopa?
Bacopa (Bacopa monnieri) belongs to the Plantaginaceae family; the whole herb is used. Origin: Wetlands of India, Sri Lanka. A classic Ayurvedic herb traditionally associated with memory, focus and a calm, clear mind.
How should I store dried bacopa?
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and moisture. Best used within 12–24 months.
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