Bacopa monnieri —A Functional Leafy Vegetable and Medicinal Herb: A Comprehensive Review of Scientific Evidence and Proposed Mechanisms Underlying Its Influence on Circadian Rhythm

Abstract

Bacopa monnieri (BM) is a known leafy vegetable with reported uses in traditional medicine in many countries. In traditional medicine, B. monnieri has been used to manage neurological disorders, enhance memory, and address sleep problems. As it is already recognized as a leafy vegetable suitable for consumption by both children and adults, it is timely to investigate its potential in addressing one of the most prevalent health issues in modern society—sleep disorders. This review connects traditional medicinal knowledge and modern scientific findings by examining the chronotherapeutic potential of B. monnieri. Relevant studies on B. monnieri and its effects on circadian rhythm and sleep quality were identified through a systematic and comprehensive examination of the literature. A total of 160 references, including research articles, review articles, and book chapters, were identified and summarized to provide the current scientific evidence on the effects of B. monnieri in improving sleep quality. After a thorough review, three possible pathways were identified: B. monnieri’s effects on brain neurotransmitters responsible for circadian rhythm, hormonal regulation, and its effect on stress levels, which indirectly affect sleep quality. Scientific evidence supporting the use of B. monnieri for sleep or circadian regulation remains limited and has shown mixed results. Some studies report improved sleep duration and reduced stress, with strong evidence suggesting that B. monnieri has significant potential to improve sleep quality; others show no significant effect on sleep quality. Therefore, more standardized studies are needed to confirm whether B. monnieri is effective in improving sleep quality.