Indian Ayurveda has many powerful and multipurpose herbs like giloy, Mulethi, Ashwagandha etc but do you know about a multipurpose herb which can work as a memory booster. This article is about one such herb which can greatly enhance one’s cognitive abilities. The name of that herb is Brahmi.
What is Brahmi ?
Brahmi, botanically called Bacopa monnieri is a small, succulent, glabrous, creeping or prostrate annual herb. The term brahmi is derived from the word ‘Brahma’, which refers to the God of creation in Hindu mythology.
It has been used for nearly 3000 years in Indian Ayurveda as the brain is considered the center of creative activity, any substance that might boost the brain’s health is known as brahmi.
It is known by various names such as
Neerbrahmi
Bamanevari in Gujarati
Jalnam, Birami, Brahmi in Marathi
Brahmi in Oriya
Bhahmi in Malayalam
Brahmibuti in Punjab
Sambarenu, Sambrani in Telugu
Brahmi vazhukkai, Nirabrahmi in Tamil
Ondelaga, Mandukaparni, Nirubrahmi in Kannada
Manduka Parni in Hindi
Brahmi in Assamese
Kapotavanka, Sarasvati in Sanskrit
Thyme Leaved Gratiola in English.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Brahmi good for ?
It is good in certain conditions and diseases like Alzheimer’s disease, improving memory, anxiety, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), allergic conditions, irritable bowel syndrome, and as a general tonic to fight stress.
Is Brahmi good for sleep ?
Yes, it is good for sleep as it is a great herb to help you achieve a good night’s sleep.
Can I take Brahmi everyday ?
Yes, it can be taken daily as it is safe to consume 2 – 3 grams of Brahmi powder daily along with meals.
Is Brahmi good for hair ?
Yes, it is good for hair as it reduces dryness, itchiness and flakiness in the hair. It helps in reducing hair fall to a considerable amount and also boosts hair growth at the same time.
What are the properties of Brahmi ?
The properties of brahmi are described as follows:
- It have analgesic potential
- It have anti-inflammatory potential
- It have antimicrobial property
- It have anti-convulsant potential
- It have anti-depressant property
- It have anxiolytic property
- It have anti-neoplastic property
- It have antioxidant property
- It have beneficial properties for liver health
- It have an immuno-stimulatory potential
- It have sedative potential
- It have anti-ulcer potential
Benefits of Brahmi
Good Brain Booster :- It has been a memory booster for several centuries for increasing focus and attention. Its 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 :- Studies reveal that drinking its juice or taking supplements daily for 4 weeks reduces anxiety, palpitations, nervousness, insomnia, fatigue, headaches, stomach discomfort caused due to stress.
Helps in Asthma :- It is highly beneficial for patients suffering from asthma. Chew its 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.
Helps in Healing wounds :- Its juice acts as an instant healer in treating wounds and disinfecting the affected area. Apply its juice on the affected area as it prevents scars by providing a soft, supple texture to the skin.
Maintains Blood sugar :- Its leaves are known for antihyperglycemic properties and are widely recommended for diabetics. Regular consumption of its leaves can improve the symptoms related to diabetes and help in leading a healthy life.
Conclusion
Brahmi is an ancient Ayurvedic herbal remedy for many ailments. Its leaves are a powerhouse of valuable alkaloids and triterpene saponins that can stimulate brain chemicals for sharper thinking, memory and learning. It may help boost brain function, treat ADHD symptoms, and reduce stress and anxiety. It may also possess anticancer properties and reduce inflammation and blood pressure.
