10 Possible Side Effects Of Bacopa Monnieri (Brahmi)

Bacopa monnieri has some side effects when used improperly, such as gastrointestinal upset, allergic reactions, and increased liver enzymes.

The causes of these side effects may be due to excessive dosage, interactions with other medications, or sensitivity to the herb's compounds.

These side effects can worsen people's lives by causing discomfort, inflammation, and potentially leading to more serious health issues, such as liver damage or respiratory problems.

This article explains in details the 10 most common side effects of Bacopa monnieri if used imporperly.

1. Aggravates anxiety disorders

Bacopa monnieri increases blood pressure slows due to its ability to stimulate the sympathetic nervous system and constrict blood vessels.

This can cause a temporary increase in blood pressure in some individuals.

Additionally, Bacopa's potential to reduce stress and anxiety by interacting with neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine may also contribute to increased blood pressure as a result of its calming effects on the body.

2. Aggravates anxiety disorders

Bacopa monnieri causes drowsiness and fatigue due to its ability to increase the levels of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine in the brain.

This increased activity can slow down mental processing speed, leading to feelings of tiredness and sleepiness.

Additionally, Bacopa's interaction with GABA, a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation, can further contribute to drowsiness and fatigue.

3. Aggravates anxiety disorders

Bacopa monnieri stimulates excessive salivation occurs due to its ability to enhance the production of neurotransmitters in the brain.

This increased activity may lead to an overstimulation of the parasympathetic nervous system, resulting in an excessive secretion of saliva.

Additionally, Bacopa's saponins, which are responsible for its cognitive-boosting properties, may also contribute to this side effect by interacting with the body's natural salivary glands and increasing their activity.

4. Aggravates anxiety disorders

Bacopa monnieri disrupts sleep patterns arises due to its ability to stimulate the brain and increase alertness.

The herb's bioactive compounds, such as bacosides and saponins, can interact with neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, leading to an increased sense of mental clarity and focus.

This stimulation can make it difficult for individuals to wind down at night, resulting in insomnia or difficulty falling asleep.

5. Aggravates anxiety disorders

Bacopa monnieri lowers seizure threshold does.

This herb is believed to increase the activity of neurotransmitters, such as GABA and serotonin, which can lead to a decrease in the seizure threshold.

Additionally, Bacopa monnieri may enhance the excitatory effects of glutamate, another neurotransmitter involved in seizures, further increasing the risk of seizures.

6. Aggravates anxiety disorders

Bacopa monnieri interacts with thyroid drugs.

This interaction is due to the way Bacopa monnieri affects the metabolism of certain medications, including thyroid hormones. As a result, people taking Bacopa monnieri may experience changes in their thyroid function, which can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain or loss, and depression.

Additionally, the herb's ability to stimulate the production of thyroxine-binding globulin may further complicate thyroid medication efficacy.

7. Aggravates anxiety disorders

Bacopa monnieri affects heart rate beats by stimulating the sympathetic nervous system, leading to an increase in heart rate and cardiac output.

This is due to its ability to enhance the release of neurotransmitters such as epinephrine and norepinephrine, which play a crucial role in regulating cardiovascular activity.

As a result, individuals may experience palpitations, tachycardia, or increased blood pressure when using Bacopa monnieri.

8. Aggravates anxiety disorders

Bacopa monnieri triggers allergic reactions develops in some individuals due to its chemical composition, which includes compounds like bacopaside I and jaborosalactone.

These compounds may stimulate an immune response, leading to the production of IgE antibodies, resulting in symptoms such as hives, itching, and swelling.

In rare cases, this reaction can progress to more severe allergic responses, including anaphylaxis.

9. Aggravates anxiety disorders

Bacopa monnieri enhances digestive enzyme activity by stimulating the production of gastric amylase, lipase, and trypsin.

This increased enzyme activity breaks down complex carbohydrates, fats, and proteins more efficiently, potentially leading to improved nutrient absorption and digestion.

As a result, individuals may experience an increase in stomach acid secretion, flatulence, or loose stools due to the enhanced digestive process.

10. Aggravates anxiety disorders

Bacopa monnieri increases urination frequency does so because of its diuretic properties.

This herb stimulates the kidneys to produce more urine, which can lead to increased trips to the bathroom and a greater volume of urine produced.

Additionally, Bacopa's ability to improve blood circulation may also contribute to this side effect by increasing blood flow to the kidneys and bladders, further stimulating urination.