Bacopa (Bacopa monnieri) vs Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea)

Bacopa (Bacopa monnieri)

Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea)

About

Bacopa, also known as Water Hyssop or Brahmi, is a creeping succulent perennial that can grow to about 20 inches. It features spatula-shaped fleshy leaves and pale blue or white flowers on slender stalks. It thrives in marshlands and along the edges of mangrove swamps in warmer temperate and tropical climates, especially southern Asia, where it forms dense mats on mudflats.

Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea) is a fleshy perennial (up to about 16 in / 40 cm tall) thriving in mountainous and Arctic regions. Rhodiola has a long history of use in Russia, Scandinavia and other parts of Europe, where it was traditionally used for work performance, endurance, fatigue, depression and altitude sickness. NCCIH says there isn't enough reliable evidence to know whether rhodiola is useful for any health purpose.

Safety & precautions

Not recommended for individuals with hyperthyroidism, as bacopa may influence thyroid function. Ask a pharmacist before combining it with any prescription medicine. Avoid during pregnancy and lactation unless under professional guidance.

Irritability & Sleep Disturbance: May occur if taken in large amounts or late in the day. Manic/Bipolar Disorders: Not advisable. General Safety: NCCIH says rhodiola is possibly safe for up to 12 weeks; monitor for overstimulation.

Safety text above is printed in full and is never abbreviated. For each plant’s complete precautions, drug and food interactions and preparation notes, open its own page - both are free.