By Dr. Surya Bhagwati
Chief In- House Doctor
BAMS, DHA, DHHCM, DHBTC | 30+ Years of Experience
For eons, Ayurveda has been the chosen remedy for a multitude of maladies, expertly harmonizing the intricate workings of the human body. Among the arsenal of powerful herbs is Brahmi, a supremely potent stimulant for the brain. This elusive plant flourishes in the lush, damp earth of marshlands and the shallow beds of still waters. According to specialists, "Brahmi is a great herb that boosts memory and improves brain function." It has a cooling quality that soothes the mind and prevents anxiety.
Brahmi is also known by other names like Bacopa Monnieri, Babies tear, Bacopa, Herpestis monniera, Water hyssop, and Sambarenu.
7 Benefits of Brahmi
Brahmi is an adaptogen, which means it can help your body and mind adapt to new or difficult situations. Furthermore, it is well known for giving numerous advantages, including:
- Brain Function Improvement: Brahmi is said to enhance cognitive function, improve memory, and boost concentration and focus.
- Stress Relief: Brahmi is known to have adaptogenic properties that help the body adapt to stress and promote relaxation.
- Anxiety Reduction: Brahmi has been traditionally used to treat anxiety and depression, and some studies suggest that it may have anti-anxiety effects.
- Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Brahmi's anti-inflammatory characteristics may make it useful for lowering systemic inflammation, which would be good for health in general.
- Improved Cardiovascular Health: Brahmi has been shown to positively impact cardiovascular health, including reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
- Respiratory Health Properties: Brahmi tea or chewed leaves improve respiratory health. Ayurveda treats bronchitis, congestion, chest colds, and sinuses with Brahmi leaves. It instantly relieves swelling throat and respiratory tract by removing extra mucus and phlegm.
- Skin Health Improvement: Brahmi is said to have skin health benefits, such as lowering indications of ageing and aiding wound healing.
How to Use Brahmi
You can use Brahmi in
- Powder
- Syrup
- Infusion (prepared by soaking the herb in liquid)
Before consuming Brahmi-based herbal supplements, you should seek medical advice. Also, don't stop taking a modern medicine treatment or switch to an ayurvedic or herbal one without first talking to a healthcare professional.
Precautions to Take with Brahmi
It might be safe if you only take a small amount of Brahmi. But some general precautions need to be taken to avoid problems.
- For Breastfeeding and Pregnancy: There isn't enough information about how safe it is to use during these times. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, don't take Brahmi and talk to your doctor if you want to.
- Sedative Properties: Brahmi can make you sleepy, so you should be careful if you take it with other medicines that make you sleepy.
- Children and Older People: It's also important to be careful when giving it to children and older people, whose weak immune systems could cause reactions in the body.
- People need to know that they shouldn't take Brahmi on their own before seeing a doctor.
Conclusion
The use of Brahmi herb has been widely recognized as an effective means of promoting cognitive function and overall brain health. Its long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine, combined with modern research, has confirmed its potency as a natural and safe way to enhance brain function, improve memory and concentration, and reduce stress and anxiety. Whether consumed as an Ayurvedic medicine, used in herbal blends or applied topically, Brahmi continues to be a highly sought-after herb in both traditional and contemporary wellness practices.
FAQs on Brahmi
Is Brahmi beneficial to the brain?
Brahmi may have benefits for the brain. It may also have calming, antidepressant, antianxiety, and cognitive effects on the brain.
Are there any Brahmi side effects?
The negative effects of Brahmi include nausea, increased stomach distress, and stomach motility. Therefore, it is vital to take measures and consult a physician promptly if such side effects occur. They will be the most qualified to give you appropriate care.
Can Brahmi be taken while pregnant?
No, insufficient evidence exists to justify its use during pregnancy. Avoid brahmi or visit your physician if you are pregnant.
Is Brahmi healthy for hair?
Brahmi can be used as a hair tonic to promote healthy hair. However, more evidence is needed; additional research is required to substantiate this claim.
Is it safe to take Brahmi while breastfeeding?
No, there isn't enough evidence to show that it should be used during breast feeding. So, avoid Brahmi or talk to your doctor before taking it.
Does Brahmi have an effect on the thyroid?
Brahmi may stimulate thyroid hormone production. Brahmi has the ability to interact with the body's thyroid hormone. Therefore, before using Brahmi, you should visit a physician.
Dr. Surya Bhagwati
BAMS (Ayurveda), DHA (Hospital Admin), DHHCM (Health Management), DHBTC (Herbal Beauty and Cosmetology)
Dr. Surya Bhagwati is an established, well-known Ayurvedic expert with over 30 years of experience in treating and consulting in the field of Ayurveda. She is known for the timely, efficient, and patient-centred delivery of quality health care. The patients under her care receive a unique holistic treatment comprising not only medicinal treatment but also spiritual empowerment.