Nootropics that Improve Nervous Disorder Symptoms

Nervous Disorders can be wildly life-changing, developing pain and inconveniences of all sorts. Some common nervous disorders include but are not limited to: Alzheimer’s disease, Bell’s palsy, Cerebral palsy, epilepsy, Motor neurone disorder, Multiple sclerosis, Neurofibromatosis, Parkinson’s disease, and more. These disorders will manifest a large variety of symptoms which can affect small and large parts of living function alike. Fortunately, there are nootropic supplements which can aid in the treatment and management of these disorders and their symptoms.

Top Nootropics for Nervous Disorder Support

The following nootropics are some of the most common in terms of managing the symptoms nervous system disorders.

Bacopa Monnieri

Bacopa monnieri is a staple in Ayurvedic medicine and traditional holistic healing (Chevallier, 2016). It is especially well-known throughout Ayurvedic practice to aid with a variety of nervous system disorders. Some of the top disorders Bacopa can help with include epilepsy, mental illness, and neuralgia (2016). Bacopa works wonders for dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, especially due to its adaptogenic and antioxidant properties (Manap et al., 2019). It also helps that the herb has the ability to offer neuroprotective benefits, being able to pass through the blood-brain barrier. For these reasons it is commonly referred to as one of the most therapeutic nootropic herbs for nervous disorders (2019).

Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo is known to be one of the oldest trees on planet Earth, dating back over 190 million years ago (Chevallier, 2016). It is a long part of traditional Chinese medicine with many therapeutic uses. It has found its place in the treatment of many neurological disorders, especially Alzheimer’s and forms of dementia. There are many empirical studies which outline the herb’s ability to improve memory, which is very helpful in many neurological disorders. For this reason it is commonly used to help with memory in aging patients suffering from neurodegenerative conditions (2016). There are very specific studies which prove its ability to help with dementia patients (Balch, 2016). Ginkgo has also been shown to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease (2016). Some studies prove the plant can offer significant benefits to patients suffering from multiple sclerosis (Murray & Pizzorno, 1998). There is empirical evidence which outlines improvements to cognitive impairment and overall mental function in MS patients, as well as improvements to attention span and executive function (1998).

Lion’s Mane Mushroom

Lion’s Mane Mushroom is a highly versatile herb, finding its place in both medicinal and culinary scenes. It has been used in both ancient times and modern cultures for its brain-boosting and medicinal benefits (Beshara et al., 2019). Lion’s Mane is a common treatment in traditional medicines for peripheral neuropathy, both as a tea and an extract (Weil, 2004). One of the reasons is it so commonly used for this condition is for its natural nerve growth factor (2004). It has been used to improve symptoms in patients suffering from ischemic stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and more (Li et al., 2018). Some recent studies have shown Lion’s Mane the ability to activate peripheral nerve regeneration following injuries (Wong et al., 2016). And there are many studies which prove the herb is able to improve overall brain and nerve health (Sabaratnam et al., 2013).

Honorable Mentions

One honorable mention worth noting is Huperzine A. Huperzine A is a powerful nootropic for combating Alzheimer’s disease and similar forms of dementia (Du et al., 2017). This includes slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s and reducing symptoms (Beshara et al., 2019). It is also known for its ability to promote overall cognitive function. Huperzine A can improve memory as well (2019).

Final Notes On Using Nootropics for Nervous Disorders

Nervous disorders can create large inconveniences in one’s life. Fortunately, there are a lot of nootropic supplements which can help improve the symptoms of nervous disorders. Sometimes just one of these nootropics is enough to manage symptoms. Other times individuals will use many nootropics in combination to attain the desired benefits and symptom reduction. And the nootropics on this list also offer other favorable benefits too, making them a wonderful addition to almost any nootropic stack.

A Note From NooFiles

This article is intended to be used for information only. We want to remind you that consulting your physician is recommended before adding any dietary supplement of any kind to your daily regimen.

Sources

Balch, P. (2010). Prescription for Nutritional Healing. Fifth Edition. Avery Publishing. New York, New York. ISBN 978-1-58333-400-3

Beshara, J., Engle, D., and Haynes, K. (2019). Beyond Coffee. Monocle Publishing. ISBN 9781544505459

Chevallier, A. (2016). Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine. Third Edition. DK Publishing. New York, New York. ISBN 978-1-4654-4981-8

Du., Y., Liang, H., Zhang, L., and Fu, F. (2017). Administration of Huperzine A exerts antidepressant-like activity in a rat model of post-stroke depression. Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior. Vol. 158. Pp. 32-38. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pbb.2017.06.002

Li, I., Lee, L., Tzeng, T., Chen, W., Chen, Y., Shiao, Y., and Chen, C. (2018). Neurohealth Properties of Hericium erinaceus Mycelia Enriched with Erinacines. Behavioural neurology. PMID: 29951133. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1155/2018/5802634

Manap, A., Vijayabalan, A., Madhavan, S., Chia, P., Arya, Y., Wong, A., Rizwan, E., Bindal, F., & Koshy, U. (2019). Bacopa monnieri, a Neuroprotective Lead in Alzheimer Disease: A Review on Its Properties, Mechanisms of Action, and Preclinical and Clinical Studies. Drug Target Insights. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/1177392819866412

Murray, M., and Pizzorno, J., (1998). The Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. Third Edition. Atria Paperback. ISBN 978-1-4516-6300-6

Sabaratnam, V., Kah-Hui, W., Naidu, M., and Rosie David, P. (2013). Neuronal health – can culinary and medicinal mushrooms help?. Journal of traditional and complementary medicine. Vol. 3(1). Pp. 62–68. DOI: https://doi.org/10.4103/2225-4110.106549

Weil, A. (2004). Natural Health, Natural Medicine. Houghton Mifflin Publishing. New York, New York. ISBN 978-0-618-47903-0 Wong, K., Kanagasabapathy, G., Naidu, M., David, P., and Sabaratnam, V. (2016). Hericium erinaceus (Bull.: Fr.) Pers., a medicinal mushroom, activates peripheral nerve regeneration. Chin J Integr Med. Vol. (10). Pp. 759-67. DOI: 10.1007/s11655-014-1624-2

Everything You Need To Know About Bacopa Monnieri

General Information

Scientific Name: Bacopa monnieri (Scrophulariaceae)

Any Other Names: Brahmi (Hindi), Indian Pennywort, Water Hyssop, Waterhyssop, Herpestis monniera

Primary Constituents: Triterpenoid Saponins (includes bacosides)

Country or Region of Origin: Southern and Eastern India, Tropical Climates and Warmer Temperate Regions (especially in Asia)

Known Uses: Cognitive Enhancer, Memory, Stress, Anxiety, Adaptogen, Fertility, Nervous Disorders, Indigestion, Ulcers, Gas, Constipation, Asthma, Bronchitis, Rheumatic Conditions, Diuretic, and Arthritic Pain Relief

General History & Introduction

Bacopa monnieri is one of the most studied, ancient medicinal herbs on Earth (Beshara et al., 2019). It is a member of the Scrophulariaceae family. It is a creeping perennial which can grow up to 50 cm tall. The leaves are green and tear-shaped, paving the way for blue-white flowers. Although the plant is native to India’s region, it has been known to thrive and be cultivated in many other areas around the world. Some of these regions include Africa, Australia, Europe, and the Americas. The plant does very well in swamp and marshland. It can be found growing prevalently throughout rice fields.

All aerial parts of the Bacopa plant are therapeutically, medicinally, or otherwise used (Chevallier, 2016). It is common to find recipes which utilize the plant’s parts to make a variety of herbal teas, tonics, oils, extracts, rubs, and juices. Most commonly, the herb is taken in capsule form as a dietary supplement. Unlike many other herbs which may provide some of the same benefits and treat some of the same ailments, Bacopa is known to nourish neurons, rather than deplete them (Aguiar & Borowski, 2013).

Nootropic Benefits of Bacopa Monnieri

Cognitive Enhancer and Memory

Bacopa monnieri is well-used as a cognitive enhancer, as the nootropic has suggested benefits in form of executive functioning, memory, concentration, learning, and overall cognitive function (Chevallier, 2016). The herb has even been proven to reduce learning time (2016). In Ayurvedic medicine, Bacopa is associated directly with the brain (Orr, 2014). In fact, the term is literally mapped in Hindi to the brain, although so were any other nutraceuticals which bolster mental acuity (Stough et al., 2001). The traditional Indian art of holistic healing also recognizes Bacopa monnieri for its incredible, natural memory-boosting ability (Walker & Brown, 1998). Bacopa even helps bolster the memory retrieval process (Stough, 2011).

One recent, double-blind, placebo-controlled study outlined empirical proof that the herb improved information processing speed, learning rate, and memory (Beshara et al., 2019). It is especially helpful with memory retention and short-term cognitive enhancements (2019). Some studies seem to reveal increased cerebral blood flow (Aguiar & Borowski, 2013). It has shown great clinical potential in alleviating and regressing dementia symptoms (2013). There are many other studies which outline the herb’s ability to remove neuro toxins, symptoms of amnesia, and immobilization stress (Stough et al., 2001).

Stress and Anxiety (Adaptogen)

An adaptogen helps stabilize the mind and body to relieve stress and tension (The Nootropics Zone, 2017). The Bacopa herb is one of the most powerful nootropic adaptogens. The herb’s ability to dramatically reduce anxiety is supported in numerous clinical trials and studies (2017). It’s natural relaxation properties are suggested to help with memory recall (Beshara et al., 2019). In fact, one recent study proved the herb offered a significant reduction in anxiety. It has been known to reduce nervousness, palpitations, insomnia, headaches, and concentration (2019). Bacopa also sports an ability to reduce oxidative stress and is purportedly one of the strongest nootropic antioxidants (Aguiar & Borowski, 2013).

Libido and Fertility

The Bacopa plant has a long traditional history of being used to treat infertility (Chevallier, 2016). It has been known to be used for a variety of libido and sex-related ailments in men. More specifically, it has been used to treat impotence, premature ejaculation, infertility, and general libido. Unfortunately, while Bacopa monnieri may be proven to enhance libido in men, the herb may possibly stunt the production and quality of sperm (Mishra et al., 2018). This study may suggest that while a small amount of Bacopa may produce aphrodisiac-like effects, too much of the herb may act as a form of male contraceptive (2018).

Nervous Disorders

Bacopa monnieri is well-known in Indian holistic medicine to treat a variety of nervous system disorders (Chevallier, 2016). Some of these disorders include epilepsy, mental illness, and neuralgia (2016). It’s ability to provide adaptogenic benefits and antioxidant benefits make it a wonderful addition to any daily regimen for a dementia or Alzheimer’s patient. It is also proven to offer neuroprotective benefits and can pass the blood-brain barrier, which is very helpful with most nervous disorders (Manap et al., 2019). The participants in a variety of clinical trials and studies on Bacopa’s effects on Alzheimer’s have even called the herb “therapeutic” (2019).

Other Uses

Bacopa monnieri is considered a multipurpose herb, making itself useful across a wide spectrum of ailments. Some of these disorders and ailments which the herb can help with, not previously mentioned, include indigestion, ulcers, gas, and constipation (Chevallier, 2016). The herb has also been known to help with asthma, bronchitis, and rheumatic conditions. It can be used as a laxative, diuretic, or a purgative. Traditionally, Bacopa has also been applied as a rub to help alleviate mild arthritic pain (2016). It has been helpful in the treatment of dementia and Parkinson’s disease (Aguiar & Borowski, 2013). It could be said that Bacopa also offers excellent mood enhancing properties, as it can improve both anxiety and depression (Calabrese et al., 2008).

Dosing and Usage Information

Many clinical trials and empirical studies support the use of Bacopa monnieri to treat a variety of ailments and conditions (Calabrese et al., 2008). Many double-blind, placebo-controlled studies have outlined the herb’s ability to enhance cognitive function with a mere dose of 300 mg daily in healthy adults (2008). This does has also been proven in empirical data to improve learning and memory (Stough et al., 2001). It is especially effective for elderly, dementia patients, and enhancing memory retention. The same study which highlighted these benefits also proved the herb’s favorable impact on anxiety, tension, and depression (2008).

Side Effects

Most of the clinical trials and studies which dive into the use of Bacopa and its benefits have outlined very few side effects, if any. It is commonly considered safe for short-term use by most medical professionals for most people (Beshara et al., 2019). The few side effects reported in some studies include stomach cramps, mild nausea, and increased bowel movements (2019). Still, it remains one of the most researched nootropics used in modern holistic healing.

Other Important Information

The nick name given to Bacopa, Brahmi, was chosen in honor of the great Hindu creator God Brahma (Stough et al., 2015). It has been greatly revered throughout all of ancient, Ayurvedic medicine as a mind medicine. At the start of its extensive history, it was first mentioned in an ancient, Sanskrit text, the Caraka Samhita, amongst others (2015). The herb was categorized as a memory and intelligence herb (Nemetchek et al., 2017). It literally fit into the Indian category Medhya Rasayana, which translates into intellect and rejuvenation (Stough et al., 2015). It is noteworthy that bacopa monnieri may have an ability to moderate brain serotonin levels (Stough et al., 2001).

Bacopa monnieri has a strong presence in many Hindu religious rituals, consecration routines, and new-born baby celebrations (Stough et al., 2015). Traditionally, it was believed that Bacopa monnieri could open the gateways to great knowledge (2015). Modern-day classification of the herb names it a nootropic, or“smart drug.” This is because it is regularly used for its ability to improve learning, memory retention, and overall concentration (Beshara et al., 2019). The herb is especially helpful with memory consolidation, verbal and visual processing of information, and environment-based learning (Stough et al., 2001).

Conclusion

The verdict may still be out on the correct dosages and applications of the herb, but Bacopa monnieri’s ability to offer medicinal effects of some kind are no longer in question. The plant’s ability to improve memory, learning, and cognitive function is world-renown. The tonic, positive effects Bacopa has on the brain are well documented throughout Chinese and Ayurvedic medicines (Chevallier, 2016). 300 mg of Bacopa extract has been supported in many studies and clinical trials as a reasonably effective daily dose (Stough et al., 2001). Its ability to relax the brain, destress the body, and improve learning and focus makes it a wonderful suggestion to alleviate ADHD symptoms (Beshara et al., 2019).

A Note from NooFiles

This article is intended to be used for information only. We want to remind you that consulting your physician is recommended before adding any dietary supplement of any kind to your daily regimen.

Sources:

Aguiar, S., & Borowski, T. (2013). Neuropharmacological review of the nootropic herb Bacopa monnieri. Rejuvenation research. Vol. 16(4). Pp. 313–326. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1089/rej.2013.1431

Beshara, J., Engle, D., and Haynes, K. (2019). Beyond Coffee. Monocle Publishing. ISBN 9781544505459

Calabrese, C., Gregory, W. L., Leo, M., Kraemer, D., Bone, K., & Oken, B. (2008). Effects of a standardized Bacopa monnieri extract on cognitive performance, anxiety, and depression in the elderly: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Journal of alternative and complementary medicine (New York, N.Y.). Vol. 14(6). Pp. 707–713. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2008.0018

Chevallier, A. (2016). Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine. Third Edition. DK Publishing. New York, New York. ISBN 978-1-4654-4981-8

Mishra, R. K., Singh, S., & Singh, S. K. (2018). Natural products in regulation of male fertility. The Indian journal of medical research. Vol. 148(Suppl). Pp. S107–S114. DOI: https://doi.org/10.4103/ijmr.IJMR_1968_17

Nemetchek, M. D., Stierle, A. A., Stierle, D. B., & Lurie, D. I. (2017). The Ayurvedic plant Bacopa monnieri inhibits inflammatory pathways in the brain. Journal of ethnopharmacology. Vol. 197. Pp. 92–100. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2016.07.073

Orr, S. (2014). The New American Herbal. Clarkson Potter Publishers. New York, New York. ISBN 978-0-449-81993-7

Stough, (2011). Neurocognitive effects of herbal extracts. Lifetime Nutritional Influences on Cognition: Behaviour and Psychiatric Illness. Woodhead Publishing. ISBN 978-1-84569-752-5

Stough, C., Lloyd, J., Clarke, J., Downey, L., Hutchison, C., Rodgers, T., and Nathan, P. (2001). The chronic effects of an extract of Bacopa monniera (Brahmi) on cognitive function in healthy human subjects. Rapid Communication. Psychopharmacology. Vol. 156. Pp. 481-484. DOI: 10.1007/s002130100815

Stough, C., Singh, H., & Zangara, A. (2015). Mechanisms, Efficacy, and Safety of Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi) for Cognitive and Brain Enhancement. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine. 717605. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1155/2015/717605

The Nootropics Zone (2017). Nootropics: Unlocking Your True Potential With Smart Drugs. ISBN 9781520552729

Walker, L., and Brown, E. (1998). The Alternative Pharmacy. Prentice Hall Press. Paramus, New Jersey. ISBN 0-7352-0021-1

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nootropics for nervous disorders

Best Nootropics for Nervous Disorder Support