My Vedic Life

What is Brahmi :

• Brahmi or Bacopa monnieri is a medicinal herb used in India by Ayurvedic practitioners. It has soft stems which bear bright green oval leaves and small white flowers. It grows in damp areas and marshy lands.
• Brahmi is used for improving memory power, boosts the immune system, cures the allergic condition, irritable bowel syndrome and it is a tonic to fight the stress. (More Details)

Availability:

• Brahmi is available in juice, powders or "churna", capsule, or tablet form.

What are its benefits:

• 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.
• Brahmi oil is useful for hair loss, its external use on the scalp gives nourishment, strength and promotes hair growth.

Ayurvedic Properties of Brahmi:

• It pacifies "Vata" and "Kapha" dosha.
• "Balya": Helps for improving strength and immunity.
• It's Rasa (Taste): Bitter, Astringent & Sweet.
• Brahmi eases the motions. It helps in boosting brain strength, increases lifespan, acts as "Rasayana", maintains vocal cords. Along with this, it also increases concentration, helps in skin and blood disorders. Brahmi is also helpful in jaundice, diabetes, cough, swelling, and fever. Moreover acts as an antidote. 

Regional Names:

• Kannada: Brahmi, Kiru brahmi; Hindi: Baam; Malayalam: Brahmi; Tamil: Neer brahmi, Pirami; Telugu: Sambrani aku; Marathi: Brahmi, Jalabrahmi; Gujarathi: Baam, Jalanevari; Sanskrit: Brahmi, Tiktalonika; English: Indian pennywort, Moneywort