Promising results with Brahmi for ADHD
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is characterised by symptoms like hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattentiveness.
Clinical diagnoses of ADHD and the use of prescription medications for its treatment have increased in recent years. Current treatments may involve amphetamine-type substances, a path not favoured by many parents. Therefore, alternatives are required.
Few nutritional or pharmacological alternatives that reduce ADHD associated symptoms (hyperactivity and inattention) have been subjected to rigorous clinical trials.
However, research may be on the cusp of showing that Bacopa monnieri, otherwise known as Brahmi, may help reduce ADHD symptoms.
A 2014 study in 31 children aged 6-12 years found that taking 225 mg of Bacopa monnieri extract daily for six months significantly reduced ADHD symptoms such as restlessness, poor self-control, inattention, and impulsivity in 85% of the children involved (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24682000).
A more recent 2022 study of 112 boys aged 6-14 years with ADHD found cognitive, mood, and sleep benefits among those taking Bacopa monnieri, but saw no effect on behavioural outcomes (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35041248).
Although some findings are promising, more large-scale studies examining the effects of Bacopa monnieri on ADHD are needed. Interestingly, Viridian has named Brahmi its 2024 Ingredient of the Year for much wider reasons than its potential for ADHD, not least its tradition in cognitive health.
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