This randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled clinical study investigated the effectiveness of Bacopa monniera supplementation on memory performance in healthy older adults. Participants were randomized to receive a placebo or Bacopa, 300 mg per day for 12 weeks and assessed for neuropsychologic and subjective memory assessment at baseline and after 12 weeks of supplementation. Audioverbal and visual memory performance were measured by the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (AVLT), the Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Test (CFT), and the Reitan Trail Making Test (TMT). Subjective memory performance was measured by the Memory Complaint Questionnaire (MAC-Q).
The results showed that bacopa supplementation significantly improved verbal learning and memory acquisition, while delaying recall, total learning and retroactive interference, suggesting that bacopa supplementation may improve memory acquisition and retention in healthy older adults. Bacopa caused GIT side effects of increased stool frequency, abdominal cramps, and nausea; therefore, care should be taken with supplementation, by ensuring use of quality extracts.
References:
Morgan, A., & Stevens, J. (2010). Does Bacopa monnieri improve memory performance in older persons? Results of a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial. Journal of alternative and complementary medicine (New York, N.Y.), 16(7), 753–759. https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2009.0342