The Effects of a Bacopa monnieri Extract (Bacumen) on Cognition, Stress, and Fatigue in Healthy Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Lopresti AL, Smith SJ
Published in Clinical Drug Investigation
Methodology
Two-arm, 12-week, parallel-group, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial; 101 adults aged 40-70 with self-reported memory and attention problems received 300 mg/day Bacopa monnieri extract or placebo.
Key Findings
No between-group differences in the primary cognitive outcomes: verbal learning (p = 0.391), attention (p = 0.713) and working memory (p = 0.610). Secondary outcomes showed greater reductions in self-reported stress reactivity (p = 0.03) and in fatigue and stress after a cognitively demanding task. More self-reported adverse reactions occurred in the Bacopa group (p = 0.024), mainly digestive complaints and headaches.
Conclusions
Twelve weeks of 300 mg/day Bacopa did not improve cognitive performance versus placebo, though stress and fatigue measures improved.
Limitations
Single proprietary extract at a relatively low dose; 14 dropouts; positive findings were secondary self-report outcomes and not corrected for multiplicity.
Supplements Studied
Bacopa monnieri supplementation for 12 weeks did not result in greater improvements in cognitive performance.
Outcomes Measured
Fatigue and stress levels after exposure to a cognitive-demanding computer task were reduced.
There were no between-group differences in changes in the primary outcome measures comprising verbal learning, attention, and working memory.
In the Bacopa-supplemented participants, there were greater reductions in overall self-reported stress reactivity (p = 0.03).
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
Access Study
Disclosures
Funding
Supplement manufacturer funded
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.