Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Bacoside is a group of active compounds found in Bacopa monnieri, a traditional Ayurvedic herb. The use of Bacopa monnieri (and thus bacosides) to support cognitive function, including concentration and memory, has both traditional roots and scientific investigation. Several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have evaluated Bacopa extracts standardized to bacoside content for cognitive enhancement. Studies in healthy adults, older adults, and children have shown small to moderate improvements in measures of attention, information processing, and cognitive performance with chronic supplementation (usually over 8-12 weeks). Proposed mechanisms include antioxidant effects, modulation of neurotransmitters such as acetylcholine, and support of neuronal communication. Systematic reviews (e.g., Kongkeaw et al., 2014; Neale et al., 2013) conclude that while there is evidence for modest improvements in some aspects of cognition, including attention and concentration, the quality of evidence varies and larger, more rigorous studies are needed. Side effects are generally mild. Thus, scientific evidence does support the use of bacoside-containing Bacopa extracts to improve poor concentration, but the effect is modest and not all studies show benefit. The evidence base would benefit from further high-quality research.

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