10.31.08
Indication: Cognitive function (elderly)
Source: J Altern Complement Med, September24, 2008:14(6):707-13.
Research: Bacopa or water hyssop, a plant used since approximately the sixth century A.D., is known for its cognition-enhancing benefits. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial evaluated the effects of standardized bacopa extract on cognitive performance and its safety and tolerability in healthy elderly subjects. The study included 48 participants, age 65 and older, without clinical signs of dementia. The trial subjects were equally divided into two groups and received either 300 mg of bacopa or placebo daily for 12 weeks. The primary outcome variable was the delayed recall score from the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (AVLT).
Results: Researchers found that the participants who received the bacopa supplement had enhanced AVLT delayed word recall memory scores relative to placebo. There was significant improvement in the bacopa group, while the placebo group remained unchanged, with stomach upset noted as the only side effect. The researchers concluded that this study provides further evidence that bacopa has the potential to safely enhance cognitive performance in the elderly.