Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri)

Dr. Sangeeta Pahuja

Brahmi is considered as the most saatvik (spiritual) herb in Ayurveda. Brahmi (derived from the name of Lord Brahma and Goddess Saraswati) is well known for its memory enhancing property. Brahmi is laghu (light) guna,Tikt (bitter) ras pradhan, ushn virya (hot potency) katu vipaka (taste after digestion)

It's called in Ayurveda as -

Vatahara - Vatashamak	Rasayana- Rejuvenator particularly to the nervous system
Anuloma- Redirects the flow of Vata downwards	Ayushya - Longivity
Vishaghna- Remove toxins	Balyam -Boost immunity and strength)
Jeevaniya- Provide energy	Medhya -Brain Tonic(memory enhancer)
Unmadahara- Antipsychotic	Nidrajnana- Promotes sleep
Smritiprada-Memory enhancer	Kushtaghna -Used in the treatment of skin diseases.
Pradnya Shakti- Increases intellectual power	Manasvikara- Used in the treatment of mental disorders.
Hridya- cardio-protective	Rasayana- Rejuvenator particularly to the nervous system

Brahmi is considered as Madhya Rasayan, well known as neuro-protective, cardio-protective, Antispasmodic, Anticonvulsant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antipyretic, antiepileptic agent and is very commonly used in neurological and psychotic disorders.

Whole Plant (Panchang) is used in Ayurvedic formulations. Brahmi tea helps to manage cold, chest congestion and bronchitis by clearing out the mucus from the air passages which helps ease breathing.

It also reduces pain and inflammation in the throat and respiratory tracts due to its anti-inflammatory property. Taking Brahmi powder along with milk helps improve brain functions by preventing brain cell damage caused by free radicals due to its antioxidant property.

It is used as a memory enhancer and brain tonic for kids due to its property to improve cognition. Brahmi oil prevents hair loss by applying on the scalp as it nourishes the hair roots and strengthen the hair. It also has relaxing properties and has calming effects.

Due to analgesic and antipyretic properties reduces pain and helps in wound healing. Brahmi is a wonder herb to boost intelligence.

It is effectively enhances the mental performance, concentration, alertness and memory due to neuro-protective properties and helps in treatment of diabetes.

Being a neuro-protective it is used in treating Alzheimer's disease. It is also used in treatment of gastric ulcers and IBS, because of its pitta-pacifying properties.

It reduces stress and anxiety due to calling effect and regular consumption of Brahmi helps in strengthening the immune system.

Always consult your doctor for better therapeutic results.