Local Name: Brahmi, gotu kola, mandukaparni, Jalanimba, Neerbrahmi, Bamanevari, Jalnam, Birami, Bhahmi, Brahmibuti, Sambarenu, Sambrani, vazhukkai, Ondelaga, Kapotavanka, Sarasvati
Botanical Name: Bacopa monnieri
Family: Scrophulariaceae
Types:
Mainly two types Bacopa monnieri and Centella asiatica. However, other credible sources report that Bacopa monniera is referred to as “brahmi” in Northern India whereas gotu kola (Centella asiatica) is known as “brahmi” in Southern India. Fortunately, both of these herbs are highly beneficial and have very similar properties. succulent (stems adapted to store water), glabrous (smooth), creeping or prostrate (branches above the ground) annual herb.
Bacopa monnieri
Centella asiatica
Habitat:
Centella asiatica is indigenous to the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, parts of Australia, and wetland regions of the Southeastern US. Because the plant is aquatic, it is especially sensitive to biological and chemical pollutants in the water, which may be absorbed into the plant. It can be cultivated in drier soils as long as they are watered regularly.
Bacopa monnieri is one of the most widespread Bacopa species. It commonly grows in marshy areas throughout India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, China, Pakistan, Taiwan, Vietnam, tropical and southern Africa, on Madagascar, in Australia, in the Caribbean as well as in Middle and South America. It is also found in Florida, Louisiana, Texas, and Hawaii.
Who Cannot take Brahmi:
Brahmi may increase stomach and intestinal secretions. So it is generally advised to consult your doctor while taking Brahmi if you have stomach ulcers. Brahmi may increase the fluid secretion in lungs. So it is generally advised to consult your doctor while taking Brahmi if you have asthma or emphysema.
Various Benefits of Brahmi:
Brahmi Benefits for Brain:
We cannot avoid aging it is inevitable. Declining of memory power one of the significant side effects of aging (cognitive deficits). Brahmi can delayed brain degeneration to some extent. Brahmi is considered a brain tonic for people of all ages and genders. Taking Brahmi as a supplement can help increase focus and support brain function. Brahmi has also been proven to show therapeutic effects against brain degeneration caused by Alzheimer’s disease. However, more research is required in this area.
Ref: https://www.keralaayurveda.biz/blog/brahmi-benefits-uses
Internal Swelling:
Swelling in the brain is alarming and can be life-threatening. Taking Brahmi capsules or tablets along with the prescribed treatment may help reduce systemic swelling in the brain.
Ref: https://www.keralaayurveda.biz/blog/brahmi-benefits-uses
Potential Uses of Brahmi for liver:
Brahmi was found to be beneficial against drug-induced kidney and liver toxicity. It may also show strong activity in maintaining the antioxidant system that might benefit animals from drug induced liver toxicity. However, this information is not sufficient because these studies are done on animals. We require more human study to support the true scope of brahmi on human health.
Ref: https://pharmeasy.in/blog/ayurveda-uses-benefits-side-effects-of-brahmi/
Helps Normalize Blood Pressure:
Brahmi also enables the body to increase the utilization of nitric acid, another positive factor for blood pressure. By managing and regulating these functions, Brahmi helps promote normal blood pressure.
Ref: https://www.keralaayurveda.biz/blog/brahmi-benefits-uses
Sedation:
Study on animals found brahmi extract and the extract of the whole plant may have sedative and tranquillising (reduces anxiety, tension, fear) effects on animals. Require more studies on humans to suggest that brahmi may have sedative properties.
Ref: https://pharmeasy.in/blog/ayurveda-uses-benefits-side-effects-of-brahmi/
Improves Sleep Patterns:
Most people have inconsistent sleep patterns because of a lack of physical exercise, poor diet, and stress, which can be detrimental to their health. Besides the many Brahmi uses, it can also help improve sleep patterns and reduce insomnia by reducing hyperactivity and stress.
Ref: https://www.keralaayurveda.biz/blog/brahmi-benefits-uses
Brahmi Benefits for Hair:
Brahmi is an excellent herb for hair growth. It is blended with herbs like reetha, shikakai and amla to prepare scalp and hair masks. Brahmi strengthens the roots, treats split ends, and prevents dandruff. It is cooling, so you should avoid it while having a cold or in winter. You can prepare a hair mask at home by blending Brahmi herbs with carrier oil, like mustard, coconut, or amla oil. Apply this hair mask twice weekly to promote growth and get gorgeous, thick locks.
Ref: https://www.keralaayurveda.biz/blog/brahmi-benefits-uses
How to use:
- In Oil form
- In Powder form
- In Paste form
- In Tablet or Capsule form
- In infusion with water form
- In Brahmi Ghritham (Brahmi Ghee)
Side Effects of Brahmi:
Commonly reported side effects of brahmi include:
- 1. Nausea
- 2. Increased stomach motility (food moving from mouth to the throat)
- 3. Stomach upset
However, if you experience any adverse reactions to brahmi, immediately contact a doctor or your Ayurvedic physician who has prescribed it to you. They will be able to guide you appropriately for your symptoms.
Ref: https://pharmeasy.in/blog/ayurveda-uses-benefits-side-effects-of-brahmi/
Precautions to Take with Brahmi:
Brahmi might be considered safe if it is consumed in small amounts. However, general precautions have to be followed to avoid complications.
- 1. Avoid in case of breastfeeding and pregnancy
- 2. Children and Elderly: One must also be cautious while giving it to children and older people because their weak immunity might develop reactions in the body.
People need to be aware that brahmi should not be used to self-medicate before consulting a doctor.
Ref: https://pharmeasy.in/blog/ayurveda-uses-benefits-side-effects-of-brahmi/
