Brahmi- Overview, History, Uses, Benefits, Precaution, Dosage

What Is Brahmi?

Brahmi is a famous Ayurvedic herb from 3000 years ago. It is also known as Bacopa monnieri in scientific terms. The perennial herb Bacopa monnieri belongs to the Prunusaceae family and can be found in Europe, Asia, North and South America, and North Africa. The old Indian medical system of Ayurveda has also utilised it as a successful herb to enhance memory and learning capacity. It is highly famous for brain health. It is named Brahmi after the name of lord Brahma, who is the god of memory and brain. An ancient form of Eastern medicine called Ayurveda has been practised in India from ancient times. It is a medication that stresses "preventive medicine" and is formally supported by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Although it is a weed in rice fields and rivers abroad, its hardiness and ease of growth make it a popular aquatic ornamental in India. The Brahmi word might not be familiar to all, because it is called a very different name in every region. There are many local names with the language and state like brahmi are Neerbrahmi, Bamanevari in Gujarati; Jalnam, Birami, Brahmi in Marathi; Brahmi in Oriya; Bhahmi in Malayalam; Brahmibuti in Punjabi; Sambarenu, Sambrani in Telugu; Brahmi vazhukkai, Nirabrahmi in Tamil; Ondelaga, Mandukaparni, Nirubrahmi in Kannada, MandukaParni in Hindi; Brahmi in Assamese; Kapotavanka, Sarasvati in Sanskrit; Thyme Leaved Gratiola in English. 

Ingredients and properties of Brahmi: Alkaloids and flavonoids are both present in Bacopa monnieri. Among these, bacopa monnieri has a special component known as bacopasite. The blood-brain barrier, which separates the blood from the brain, can be crossed by bacopasite, which also prevents brain oxidation. In addition, it increases the cerebral blood flow in the brain which gives better cognitive function to the human. It supports overall brain health from reducing stress to improving learning skills.

• Latin Name: The Latin or scientific name of Brahmi is Bacopa monnieri
• Family: Brhami belongs to the Plantains family, which is a family of flowering plants.
• Common name: The most common name of Brahmi is
• Habitat: Brahmi required canals and water bodies to grow properly.
• Season: To harvest the brahmi, the right season is October- November,

Brahmi Benefits

Some of the most notable and significant possible advantages of Brahmi herbs are following:

Strengthen memory & concentration: Brahmi or Bacopa Monnieri is a special herb that can enhance and improve memory and learning ability. According to one study, taking a certain amount of Brahmi herb every day for roughly 12 weeks straight may help the brain receive visual information from the surroundings more quickly. According to another study, when 54 healthy elderly subjects took 300 mg/day of Bacopa monnieri extract for 12 weeks, an improvement in verbal memory ability was observed. Therefore, this plant may be of assistance in strengthening and enhancing memory as well as raising learning capacity.

Reduce cognitive disorders: By lowering the risk of acquiring or treating certain illnesses and health issues, notably Alzheimer's and dementia, using the Brahmi herb can help prevent several conditions that may hurt cognition. According to one study, this herb contains chemical elements that could stimulate the body's natural process of creating new neural pathways. In addition, they lower the tension and stress that damaging oxidative processes have on the brain. Hence, it is therapy for memory loss and preventing harm to nerve cells.

Relieve stress and anxiety: Brahmi herb may aid a person's overall psychological health, which makes it potentially beneficial for those who suffer from psychological disorders like anxiety, stress, and depression. This herb has active ingredients that lower the body's cortisol levels, also known as the stress hormone. Hence, regulating the synthesis of several hormones whose levels may be impacted by stress, like serotonin and dopamine. A study found that when stressed rats were divided into two groups, one treated with 40 mg/kg of Brahmi and the other left untreated, the treated group had fewer gastric ulcers, weight gain in the adrenal glands, lower blood sugar levels, and higher levels of amino acid metabolism-related enzymes. Results indicated that in rats administered Bacopa monnieri, the increase in these values was inhibited. Furthermore, no rise in the weight of the adrenal glands, blood sugar levels, or enzyme levels related to amino acid metabolism was seen in rats given 80 mg/kg of Bacopa monnieri. According to this, Bacopa monnieri may have the ability to reduce stress.

Stabilise The Mind: Brahmi can calm the mind and decrease depressive symptoms. This is due to the Brahmi's components' activation of the serotonin receptor known as the 5HT1a. The central nervous system is home to 5HT1a receptors, which play a role in anxiety and depression. It is predicted to have a relaxing effect by activating 5HT1a receptors and may potentially be utilised as an antipsychotic or antidepressant. Additionally, it is said to be useful for mental illnesses like insomnia, anxiety, restlessness, and attention deficit disorder. It is also known to reduce the frequency of migraine attacks by blocking the activity of the serotonin receptor 5HT2a.

Fatigue Recovery Effect: Brahmi helps people recuperate from exhaustion. In a 3 week experiment, rats were divided into two groups: one that took 10 mg/kg of Bacopa monnieri, and the other that did not. According to the findings, the swimming time was around three times greater for the swimming group than for the non-swimming group. This shows a fatigue recovery effect of bacopa monnieri or Brahmi. Hence, it is a must try herb.

Increase lung health: The potential to improve respiratory health and avoid certain ailments, including colds, sinusitis, congestion, bronchitis, and asthma, is only one of the many health advantages of the Brahmi herb. Only chewing the herb's leaves or consuming tea derived from them may help to expel mucus that has collected in the respiratory system, enhancing the lungs' capacity to carry out their typical duties, minimising the likelihood of asthma episodes and maintaining the patient's condition as under control as possible. It is also effective to control any symptoms that a person with an allergy-related disease might experience.

Relieve Chronic Pain: One study found that the herb Brahmi has natural qualities that may make it have an effect similar to the action of the anaesthetic morphine, which helps reduce pain. This herb may be especially helpful for those with medical disorders that force them to live with chronic pain. As a result, it is permissible to utilise brahmi, particularly because the research stated above suggests that the brahmi herb may be a secure natural remedy for pain relief.

Boost Hair Strength: This herb and the oil made from it may assist in improving hair health because they both contain unique chemicals that minimise hair loss and treat various scalp and hair issues, like dandruff and alopecia. The daily use of Brahmi nourishes the scalp. It encourages and stimulates the genesis and growth of hair.

Improving Arterial And Heart Health: The Brahmi herb can have a positive effect that supports the blood vessels and the heart in general because it lowers excessive blood pressure and controls blood pressure. In addition, it also helps to lower the body's levels of harmful cholesterol. It is a great herb to use by heart patients.

Other Several Benefits

• Controlling the blood sugar levels.
• Treat wounds and lower scars that develop after wounds have healed.
• Treat several neurological conditions, including schizophrenia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and epilepsy.
• Enhance the body's defences against infection and improve its ability to prevent some diseases. 

Precaution while using Brahmi

Although Brahmi is a herb, here are some precaution points that you should consider while using Brahmi. Let’s begin-

• It is advised that you speak with your doctor if you are using it in conjunction with medication. Bacopa Monnieri in particular should not be taken by people who have thyroid dysfunction since it may raise blood levels of the thyroid hormone.
• Reduce the heartbeat's speed, if consumed in high doses.
• Exacerbation of certain medical conditions, including urinary tract blockage, thyroid disorders, emphysema, and stomach and intestinal ulcers.
• Additional potential side effects include weariness, dry mouth, nausea, cramping in the stomach, and intestinal congestion.
• It is best not to take this herb constantly for longer than 12 weeks and not to use it to treat any illness without first seeing a doctor to minimise any potential risks.

Brahmi Dosage

The FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) has established the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for all products and ingredients. The RDA value for Brahmi is-

• Whole plant- 5-10g (as fresh)
• Extract- 0.5-1 g

There is no scientific information that tells the right dose of Brahmi and its extract. The RDA value is the maximum limit. It can be harmful if overdoses more than the Recommended Dietary Allowance.

So, it is important to check the relevant information on the label, that is, in which quantity of raw ingredients it includes. If it gets hectic for you, you can consult your healthcare professional.

How To Consume Brahmi Herb?

Brahmi is a very versatile herb that can be used in several ways. Well, the consumption of Brahmi leaves is more common. Here are a few typical ways to consume Brahmi:

• Fresh Brahmi Leaves: If you have fresh Brahmi leaves, then consume them. The leaves can be washed and used as a garnish or as an ingredient in salads. You can directly chew them too, but remember they taste a little bit harsh.
• Brahmi Powder: Dried Brahmi leaves are powered into a fine powder to make Brahmi powder. It is a very common supplement form. To consume brahmi powder, you can mix it with water, milk, or a smoothie. Start with a little dose (about 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon) and increase the dose gradually.
• Brahmi Tablets or Capsules: Brahmi supplements in the form of tablets or capsules are also available. They are easy to use. Just pay attention to the dosage guidelines on the product label.
• Brahmi Tea: To make brahmi tea, soak dried brahmi leaves in boiling water for a few minutes or use fresh leaves. It's an easy method of using Brahmi for its calming effects.
• Brahmi Oil: In Ayurveda, Brahmi oil is used to massage the scalp and support healthy hair. It's not meant for oral intake, so do not try it.
• Brahmi Syrup: You can get Brahmi syrups from the market. For consumption. diluted with water or another beverage. Observe the dosing instructions on the product label.
• It is necessary to start with a small dose, whatever the method you choose. For better results, it is important to consume daily.

FAQ(Frequently Asked Question) On Brahmi

Can Brahmi be taken daily?

Brahmi can be used as a supplement regularly, but it's best, to begin with a low dose and gradually increase it to gauge tolerance. A healthcare expert should be consulted for specific advice.

What is the best time to eat Brahmi?

To improve absorption, brahmi pills are often taken with meals. For cognitive advantages, the morning or early afternoon is frequently suggested.

Who should not use Brahmi?

Brahmi should not be consumed by anyone who has particular allergies, or medical conditions, or who is using specified drugs. If you have any worries, talk to a doctor.

Does Brahmi make you sleepy?

No, Brahmi is not known to make people drowsy. It's frequently employed to support cognitive ability and mental acuity.

What is Brahmi useful for?

Traditional uses of brahmi include improving memory and cognitive function, lowering anxiety, and supporting overall brain health.

Is it safe to take Brahmi daily?

Brahmi is generally safe for usage daily when taken in the appropriate doses. However, since every person will react differently, seek medical advice.

Who should not use Brahmi?

 Brahmi should be avoided by those who are pregnant, nursing, or have certain medical conditions. If you have any worries, talk to a doctor.

How to use Brahmi for hair?

Brahmi oil is frequently applied to hair. Before bathing, it can be massaged into the scalp for a while.

How long does Brahmi take to work?

The time it takes to experience Brahmi's effects can vary among individuals. Some notice benefits within a few weeks, while for others, it may take longer.

How to eat brahmi leaves for memory?

You can eat fresh brahmi leaves uncooked or mix them into salads. For memory assistance, dried Brahmi leaves can also be used as a powder or in tea infusions.

How to use Brahmi powder for the brain?

You can combine brahmi powder with milk, water, or a smoothie. Start with a little and work your way up. For mental benefits, it's commonly taken in the morning.

What is Brahmi script?

The Brahmi script, which was predominantly employed for Sanskrit writing in ancient India, is one of the earliest known scripts. It was essential to the growth of numerous South Asian scripts.

How to use Brahmi leaves?

Fresh Brahmi leaves can be used to prepare herbal infusions, added to salads, or eaten raw.

How to eat brahmi leaves?

Brahmi leaves can be eaten raw, added to salads, or used in herbal teas and infusions.

How to take Ashwagandha and Brahmi together?

Ashwagandha and Brahmi are often combined for cognitive and stress-relief benefits. They can be taken together in recommended doses, typically with meals. Consult a healthcare professional for personalised guidance.