Brahmi

Properties

Neuroprotective (antioxidant), Antimicrobial, Anticonvulsant, Anti-inflammatory, Antitumour

Dosage

Fresh juice: 10-20 ml; Powder: 1-3 grams; Extract: 250-500mg once or twice daily; Brahmi Ghrita: 6-12 grams

Classical attributes

• Rasa: Tikta (Bitter), Kashaya (Astringent)
• Virya: Sheeta (Cold)
• Vipaka: Madhura (Sweet)

Benefits

• A randomized controlled trial (PMID: 12086102) demonstrated improved retention of new information with Brahmi supplementation in adults
• Another study (PMID: 35219447) found Brahmi vati comparable to Manasmitra vataka in managing generalized anxiety disorder
• Additionally, a clinical trial (NCT02416245) aims to assess the impact of a Brahmi-fortified beverage on short-term memory in children
• These trials suggest Brahmi's potential benefits for memory, anxiety, and overall cognitive well-being
• Medhya (improves intelligence)

Traditional uses

• Memory improvement
• Insomnia
• Epilepsy
• Anxiety
• Age-related memory loss

Dosha effects

• vata: balancing
• kapha: balancing
• pitta: balancing

Preparation methods

• Svarasa (fresh juice): Standard preparation as per API.
• Churna (powder): Standard preparation as per API.
• Ghrita (ghee): Standard preparation as per API.
• Taila (oil): Standard preparation as per API.
• Kwatha (decoction): Standard preparation as per API.
• Asava/Arishta (fermented liquids): Standard preparation as per API.
• Vati/Gulika (tablets): Standard preparation as per API.
• Lepa (paste): Standard preparation as per API.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to Bacopa
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding
• Thyroid disorders
• Gastric ulcers or acute gastritis
• Bradycardia or heart conditions

Side effects

• Use with caution in individuals with asthma, low heart rate, urinary tract disorders, or those taking sedatives. May cause nausea, increased stomach motility, or stomach upset. Long-term use (more than 12 weeks consecutively) should be avoided without consulting a healthcare professional.

Interactions

• Sedatives
• Thyroid medications (levothyroxine or hyperthyroidism medications)
• Antidepressants and anxiolytics
• Cholinergic drugs
• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin)

Clinical evidence

Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) has been investigated in several clinical trials for its effects on general health, particularly cognitive function and anxiety. A randomized controlled trial (PMID: 12086102) demonstrated improved retention of new information with Brahmi supplementation in adults. Another study (PMID: 35219447) found Brahmi vati comparable to Manasmitra vataka in managing generalized anxiety disorder. Additionally, a clinical trial (NCT02416245) aims to assess the impact of a Brahmi-fortified beverage on short-term memory in children. These trials suggest Brahmi's potential benefits for memory, anxiety, and overall cognitive well-being.

Ayurvedic karmas

• Medhya (improves intelligence)
• Rasayana (rejuvenative)
• Kandughna (relieves itching)
• Arsoghna (treats hemorrhoids)
• Vranahara (wound healing)
• Balances Vata and Pitta
• Improves voice
• Improves memory
• Nervine Tonic
• Antioxidant
• Adaptogenic
• Anxiolytic
• Antidepressant
• Neuroprotective
• Anti-inflammatory
• Cardiotonic
• Bronchodilator
• Peptic ulcer protection
• Diuretic
• Febrifuge

Classical clinical indications

• Memory improvement
• Insomnia
• Epilepsy
• Anxiety
• Age-related memory loss
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Asthma
• Improving sexual performance
• Pain relief
• Hoarseness of voice
• Depression
• Skin diseases
• ADD/ADHD
• Mental retardation
• Tumors
• Ulcers
• Splenomegaly
• Ascites
• Constipation
• Sterility

Frequently asked questions