Herb of Grace
Bacopa monnierifam. Scrophulariaceae
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Pl. A5AF — Bacopa monnieri
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IOverview
Overview
Herb of Grace, scientifically known as Bacopa monnieri and belonging to the Scrophulariaceae family, is a perennial plant native to the Galápagos Islands. It thrives in moist environments with light to partial shade, making it adaptable to various soil types including sandy, medium, and clay soils. This plant can grow up to 0.3 meters tall and is known for its edible flowers and leaves, which are often used in traditional medicine and cuisine. Bacopa monnieri has a long history of use in reducing stress and anxiety; studies have shown that it can help alleviate test-anxiety and support memory under stress within an 8-12 week period. Additionally, the herb is valued for its benefits in enhancing energy and focus, with multiple randomized controlled trials confirming its positive effects on cognitive function in older adults.
Quick answers
What is Herb of Grace?
Herb of Grace, scientifically known as Bacopa monnieri and belonging to the Scrophulariaceae family, is a perennial plant native to the Galápagos Islands. It thrives in moist environments with light to partial shade, making it adaptable to various soil types including sandy, medium, and clay soils.
What is Herb of Grace used for?
Traditionally used for stress & anxiety, energy & focus. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 2 evidence-ranked uses of Herb of Grace
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources- Traditional use: bacopa reduces test-anxiety, supports memory under stress. 8-12 week onset.
Bacosides on cholinergic + monoamines
- Traditional use: bacopa for memory and focus. Multiple RCTs confirm benefit in older adults. 8-12 week onset.
Bacosides — neuroprotective + cholinergic
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Mental Clarity
focustincture
Traditional use for enhancing memory and focus.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Herb of Grace thrives in full to partial sun and requires moist to wet soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is a perennial that grows up to 0.3 meters tall and is hardy in zones 8-11. For best results, plant it where it will receive ample moisture and the right amount of sunlight. Propagation can be done through stem cuttings. Enjoy its edible leaves and flowers while ensuring the soil remains consistently moist.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist, Wet
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
8-11
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.3 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Herb of Grace for the first time
7steps
Start with a simple, low-maintenance approach to grow Herb of Grace.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or small plants, potting soil, containers, water.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when temperatures are mild and stable.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a well-draining potting mix. Containers should be at least 15 cm deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds outdoors after the last frost, or start indoors 4-6 weeks before planting outside.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil consistently moist. Place in a sunny to partially shaded spot.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize sparingly with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back after flowering to encourage new growth and maintain shape.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersLeaves
Edible uses: Herb of Grace is eaten for its leaves and flowers. These are typically consumed fresh in salads or cooked as a green vegetable. The plant can also be steeped to make a tea.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 30 native
Asia5 regions
native (5)AfghanistanBangladeshCambodiaChinaIndia
Americas7 regions
native (7)BahamasBelizeBoliviaColombiaCosta RicaCubaDominican Republic
Broader regions
native:Brazil Northeast, Argentina South, Chile North, Alabama, Argentina Northwest, Bermuda, Chile Central, Galápagos, Aldabra, Argentina Northeast, Arizona, Brazil South, Brazil Southeast, Cayman Is., Chagos Archipelago, Congo, East Himalaya
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Scrophulariaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
shared use cases
Different families, similar therapeutic role — good for comparing.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Health goals
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
- Last updated
- Citation
- How to cite this entry · Submit a correction
Back to the cataloguePlant id · a5af15c9-9cf8-453b-9250-6711a5395c33
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