Brahmi is also known as Bacopa is a plant that is extensively used in Ayurveda for its numerous medicinal properties. A creeper and a perennial herb, Brahmi has been in usage for generations and is widely beneficial in treating various health conditions as recommended by Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani and other alternative medicines across the world. The western world refers to Brahmi as water hyssop, however, it should not be confused with Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica), often referred to as Brahmi.
Brahmi leaves are a powerhouse of valuable alkaloids and triterpene saponins that can stimulate brain chemicals for shaper thinking, memory and learning. The next time you find Brahmi leaves, toss them in your salad, dry and powder the leaves to sprinkle in your curries and chutneys.
Amazing Health Benefits Of Brahmi:
Cognitive Abilities:
Brahmi has been hailed as a memory booster for several centuries for increasing focus and attention. Ayurveda recommends Brahmi extract or supplements for kids aged between 6 to 8 years for improving hand-eye coordination. It is also recommended for people suffering from seizures and those with Alzheimer’s.
Prevents Anxiety:
If you are suffering from anxiety and sudden panic attacks, it’s time to include Brahmi in your daily diet. Studies reveal that drinking Brahmi juice or taking supplements daily for 4 weeks reduces anxiety, palpitations, nervousness, insomnia, fatigue, headaches, stomach discomfort caused due to stress.
Avoids Asthmatic Attacks:
Brahmi is highly beneficial for patients suffering from asthma. Chew on few Brahmi leaves or steep them in your tea for improving pulmonary function and to treat various respiratory issues like congestion, bronchitis, colds, sinusitis. It also acts as an expectorant by clearing phlegm and mucus in the throat and respiratory tracts.
Heals Wounds:
The juice of Brahmi acts as an instant healer in treating wounds and disinfecting the affected area. Apply Brahmi juice on the affected area as it prevents scars by providing a soft, supple texture to the skin.
Controls Blood Sugar:
Brahmi leaves are known for antihyperglycemic properties and are widely recommended for diabetics. Studies reveal that regular consumption of Brahmi leaves can improve the symptoms related to diabetes and help in leading a healthy life.
Effect On Doshas:
Brahmi is a splendid herb for promoting nervous system activity and increasing memory, concentration, being regarded as a “Medhya Rasayana” or brain-rejuvenating plant in the ancient ayurvedic scriptures of Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya. It possesses an inherent Tikta Rasa or bitter taste with a Kashaya i.e. astringent flavour. Brahmi is very easy to assimilate in the gut with a Laghu Guna and is also useful for cooling the body, thanks to its superb Sheeta Veerya. This potent herb aids in rectifying Vata and Pitta Dosha imbalance, to help maintain tridoshic harmony.
Dosage:
As per certified Ayurvedic doctors, it is safe to consume 2 – 3 grams of Brahmi powder daily along with meals. The decoction of brahmi powder in boiled water can be ingested at a dose of 25 – 50 ml per day for adults.
For infants and children, brahmi can be given in very small doses, in the form of Brahmi ghrita, mixed with honey, ghee and some water, which assists in bolstering brain power and immunity in kids.
In case of pre-existing health conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, hypertension, it is advised to consult with a physician prior to taking Brahmi powder or supplements.
Side Effects:
Mostly, Brahmi is well-tolerated by the majority of individuals. However, people with low blood pressure and a reduced rate of heartbeat tend to experience dizziness, headache, and fainting after consuming Brahmi powders or supplements and it is hence recommended for such individuals to avoid taking this herb.
Additional Wellness Incentives
Keeps BP Under Control
High blood pressure is a severe health disorder. By placing strain on blood vessels, it can weaken the heart and cause major heart troubles. Brahmi has been known to help keep both systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels in check. The herb releases a compound called nitric oxide which can dilate blood vessels, thus resulting in improved blood flow and balance BP levels.
Alleviates Inflammation
Inflammation is our body’s natural response to fight any kind of illness, but long-term inflammation can be an underlying cause of many chronic conditions, including cancer, diabetes, and kidney disorders. Brahmi has components that can suppress the release of pro-inflammatory cytokine which is responsible for stimulating an inflammatory immune response. Moreover, it also inhibits enzymes, (namely, cyclooxygenases, caspases, and lipoxygenases) all of which play an active role in causing inflammation.
Reduces Cancer Cell Growth
It is believed that the presence of antioxidants and compounds like bacosides present in Brahmi is responsible for its cancer-fighting properties. Bacosides found in Brahmi kill active tumor cells. The component can and even inhibit the growth of colon cancer cells.
Improves Mood
Brahmi has been traditionally used as a mood enhancer in Ayurvedic medicine. Back in the day (and even now) it was used as an antidepressant due to its capacity to modulate neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenaline. All these play a key role in regulating mood. By influencing these neurotransmitter systems, Brahmi can help alleviate symptoms of depression and promote a positive mood.
Induces Deep Sleep
Imbued with calming and sedative properties, the herb promotes relaxation and aids sleep quality. It is often used in Ayurvedic preparations to help induce sleep and alleviate insomnia. Brahmi may achieve this effect by reducing stress and anxiety levels and managing certain neurotransmitters involved in sleep regulation, such as gamma-aminobutyric acid. By promoting relaxation and reducing mental chatter, Brahmi helps individuals enjoy restful sleep.
Aids Digestive support
In Ayurveda, Brahmi is also used to support digestive health. It is believed to have carminative properties that can alleviate symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and gas. Brahmi also promotes healthy digestion by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes and enhancing the absorption of nutrients in the gastrointestinal tract. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties may help soothe the lining of the digestive system and reduce inflammation, which can contribute to digestive discomfort.
References:
- The Molecular Links of Re-Emerging Therapy: A Review of Evidence of Brahmi
Deepali Mathur,1 Kritika Goyal,2 Veena Koul,3 and Akshay Anand
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4778428/
- https://www.nature.com/articles/1395862
