Bacopa is an "adaptogen" and also "antioxidant"

An adaptogen is a herbal regulator that helps the body handle stress and maintain vitality. Stress affects memory. Adaptogens do not have a specific function but instead increase resistance to a wide range of physical, chemical and biochemical factors irrespective of the direction of the pathological state. They are more for long-term revitalization than immediate energy.

They are rich sources of strengthening nutrients that provide concentrated body support. They increase the body's overall immune function with broad spectrum activity, rather than specific action. They promote recovery from illness and may be used synergistically with other herbs to build strength. They are particularly beneficial in restoring the endocrine, nervous, digestive, muscle and hepatic systems.

 

A Russian scientist coined the term adaptogen in 1947. He defined them as "substances meant to put the organism into a state of non-specific heightened resistance in order to better resist stresses and adapt to extraordinary challenges."

Adaptogens help the body to have a "lower" stress response. This means that despite the same stressors. the physiological "reserves
of the body do not need to be used to deal with stress.

Bacopa is also an antioxidant

Brain-boosting powers are claimed for antioxidants. Although oxygen is vital to our bodies, too much or too little, creates a reaction which eventuates in toxic by-products called free radicals. Every cell in the body is at risk from damage by these highly reactive free radicals and brain cells are no exception. Because the "mop up" free radicals, antioxidants have a protective effect on neurons and may also therefore, be a useful weapon in the fight against cognitive dysfunction - and may prevent neurological damage down the road.

Tripathi YB, Chaurasia S, Tripathi E, Upadhyay A, Dubey GP Bacopa monniera Linn. As an antioxidant: mechanism of action. Indian J exp Biol 1996 June: 34(6): 523-6