Bacopa Monnieri (also known as Brahmi) is a natural medicinal plant with many health properties, benefits and uses. Read more about the benefits of Bacopa here. Bacopa is considered a miracle drug or smart-drug nootropic. A frequent question from our customers is whether there are Bacopa side effects to be expected. We answer this question about possible side effects of Bacopa Monnieri in our blog.

 

What are the Bacopa Monnieri side effects?

As with almost all medications and remedies, side effects can also occur with nootropics. Although these are rare when taking Brahmi, they are nevertheless possible and should therefore be observed.

On the one hand, it is, of course, important to observe the correct dosage. You can read dosage recommendations and other tips for taking Bacopa Monnieri in our blog on the subject.

In addition, it is necessary to start Bacopa Monnieri therapy with the lowest possible dose and observe the body's reaction. Slight Bacopa side effects are normal in the first few days of use. They should settle down within a few days once the body has a chance to get used to the medicinal herb. We cannot recommend Brahim for pregnant women because there are not enough studies on the mode of action and possible effects. If in doubt, pregnant women should definitely consult their family doctor or gynecologist beforehand.

 

The most common known side effects of Bacopa Monnieri include:

- dry mouth

- digestive problems

- nausea

- Stomach cramps / bloating

- diarrhea

- fatigue

- interactions, e.g. with thyroid medication

 

Such side effects are more pronounced when Brahmi is taken on an empty stomach. Therefore, the use of Bacopa Monnieri capsules, powder, extracts or similar is always recommended after meals or with a source of fat.

When Bacopa Monnieri side effects that do not go away after a few days, or if you feel very unwell, you should discontinue the nootropics immediately and consult a doctor immediately.

 

Is an overdose of Bacopa Monnieri dangerous?

You can find useful tips on the use and dosage of Bacopa Monnieri in our blog. It is important to follow the dosage recommendations.

According to general studies, doses of around 300 to 600 mg per day are considered safe for healthy adults, with many positive effects.

Since Brahmi is mainly used to improve memory, as an anti-aging agent and for sleeping problems, some users might think the more, the better. But, as always, the same applies here: a lot does not help a lot. The small fat leaf also contains alkaloids, which can be toxic in high doses. An overdose of Bacopa Monnieri must therefore be avoided.

Higher doses of Bacopa should only be taken on medical advice. Since the potency of active ingredients in Bacopa Monnieri tablets, powder differs depending on the manufacturer. As mentioned, you should always take food supplements in small doses at first and slowly increase them if necessary. If side effects occur, the dosage should be reduced or, if necessary, gradually stopped altogether.

 

In particular, caution is advised when using home-grown Brahmi plants as medicinal herbs, since the potency of the ingredients is difficult or impossible to assess. The main danger of an overdose with Bacopa Monnieri is the breakdown of red blood cells. If you have accidentally taken too high a dose and feel severe side effects or discomfort, you should stop taking it as a precaution and don't hesitate to call for medical help.

 

Can there be interactions with Brahmi?

Bacopa Monnieri is a powerful, natural remedy, so it is also possible that interactions can occur. It is especially true for people with pre-existing conditions and when taking prescription drugs.

Anyone taking certain medications, e.g. sedatives, Alzheimer's medication, calcium blockers, medication for the treatment of thyroid disorders, etc., should consult a doctor before taking Brahmi to rule out contraindications.

Since Bacopa Monnieri can also have a calming and slightly sedative effect, caution should also be exercised in combination with other sedatives or sleeping pills, especially during the day.

In the case of the following diseases, prior consultation with the treating physician is urgently recommended:

• Stomach or bowel disease

• Thyroid disorders

• Lung diseases

• Heart problems / low blood pressure

• ADHD

• Sleep disorders

• Etc.

 

How safe is Bacopa Monnieri as a dietary supplement?

The natural medicinal herb Bacopa Monnieri is widely recognized as a very safe dietary supplement. The benefits are immense, and Brahmi has been used in naturopathy for many centuries.

Nevertheless, pregnant women and people with previous illnesses should have their intake medically clarified in advance. Although intolerance and side effects of Bacopa Monnieri are rare, they are still possible. It is important to observe your own body closely and, if necessary, stop taking it or reduce the dosage. Precise dosing is usually easier with Brahmi tablets than with self-cultivation of the plants. On the other hand,  Brahmi powder allows for more precise dosing individually, but it is more recommended for experienced users.


 

Sources:

https://utopia.de/ratgeber/brahmi-wirkung-und-anwendung-des-ayurvedischen-heilkrauts/

https://www.naturalis-bio.de/bacopa-monnieri/

https://youoptimized.co/magazin/brahmi/

https://gehirn-doping.org/bacopa-monnieri-erfahrung-wirkung/

https://www.superfoods-online.org/brahmi-bacopa-moniera/

https://www.plantura.garden//krauterratgeber/Brahms

https://www.kraeuter-buch.de/kraeuter/Brahmi.html

https://www.superfoods-online.org/brahmi-bacopa-moniera/


Text author:

Kay Svegler

Communications, PR, American Studies, University of Leipzig

Journalist and freelance writer (e.g. Süddeutsche Zeitung, BILD, MDR etc.)

Former Senior PR Manager for Fischer Appelt, Sustainability and Diversity Manager for DKB