Herb · Asia
Brahmi
Bacopa monnieri
Traditionally attributed effects: strengthens the heart and nerves, diuretic, mildly laxative, calming; for urinary retention with constipation, acute bronchitis and cough in children, exhaustion and nervous breakdown, hysteria, epilepsy, hoarseness.
Safety notes
Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Preparation
Tea 8–16 ml; powder 5–10 g; with ghee as 'brahmi ghrita'; cooked herb as a compress on the chest.
Use in traditions
Described in the Ayurvedic materia medica and Ayurveda in the kitchen and daily care. Sanskrit name: Brahmi. Brahmi, named after Brahma the creator, is in Ayurveda a medhya rasayana, a remedy for memory and learning. Children were given brahmi ghee before exams. Some studies find a small effect on memory in adults. It grows in wet areas in the tropics.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Ayurvedic materia medica
Attributed effects
Strengthens the heart and nerves, diuretic, mildly laxative, calming; for urinary retention with constipation, acute bronchitis and cough in children, exhaustion and nervous breakdown, hysteria, epilepsy, hoarseness.
Preparation and amount
Tea 8–16 ml; powder 5–10 g; with ghee as 'brahmi ghrita'; cooked herb as a compress on the chest.
Everyday Ayurveda
Attributed effects
Calms the mind and nerves, reduces stress (a cause of hair problems).
Preparation and amount
Powder in shampoo paste or mixed into hair oil.