Learn the Herbs: Brahmi
Brahmi or Bacopa Monnieri is a creeping perennial herb from the plantain family. Also known as water hyssop, Indian pennywort, herb of grace, and thyme-leaved gratiola, the non-aromatic herb has been a staple in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries.
Are you wondering what’s so special about this herb? Let’s take a look!
Chemical Composition of Brahmi
The following major chemical compounds have been identified in this non-aromatic creeping herb:
- Betulinic acid
- Oroxindin
- Wogonin
- Flavonoids – luteolin and apigenin
- Sapnonins – bacopaside I and II
- Alkaloids – brahmine, nicotine, herpestine
- Serine
- Aspartic acid
- Glutamic acid
- Triterpenoid glycosides
A Brief History of Brahmi’s Use
Named after the Hindu god Brahma, associated with intellect, Brahmi has always been revered by Ayurvedics as a neural tonic. It has been used to help improve cognitive function, prevent and reduce cognitive decline, and protect brain cells. It’s also considered a great natural aid for oxidative stress, inflammation, and anxiety.
Health Benefits of Brahmi
Due to its significant importance in traditional Indian medicine, i.e., Ayurveda, Brahmi has been quite extensively studied by scientific researchers over the years. Following are some of the science-backed benefits of Brahmi:
It Helps Improve Brain Function
Several research studies have confirmed the brain-boosting properties of Brahmi. Researchers found that the effects are due to the nootropic action of bacosides, the major active components of the Brahmi plant.
Two 12-week research studies found similar results regarding Brahmi’s brain function boosting properties. The participants who were given 300mg of Brahmi extract daily showed significant improvements in their ability to process information, speed of learning, and memory.
The herb is found to work in two ways to help protect brain cells – it supplies the body with antioxidants that protect neurons from damage due to oxidative stress and also stimulates the production of natural neuro-protective chemicals in the brain.
It Can Help Prevent and Alleviate Stress and Anxiety
Ayurvedics have long used Brahmi as a nervine tonic and an adaptogenic herb.
For those who do not know, nervine herbs help calm the nervous system, whereas adaptogens help increase the body’s resistance against all types of stressors.
These properties of the Brahmi plant aren’t as extensively studied as its cognitive-enhancing properties. However, there is some evidence that the herb works by reducing cortisol levels in the body. The herb also helps improve mood.
One study conducted on rodents found that the anti-anxiety effects of Brahmi are comparable to those of lorazepam, a commonly used anxiolytic.
It’s a Great Antioxidant
Brahmi is a powerful natural antioxidant. The herb helps protect the body from free radical damage, which has been scientifically proven to contribute to several chronic diseases. The herb works by neutralizing free radicals in the body. It is also found to help inhibit lipid peroxidation by preventing fat molecules from reacting with free radicals.
The process of lipid peroxidation has been linked to neurodegenerative disorders. The herb is also effective against acrylamide, a chemical linked with nerve damage and nervous system disorders.
The Final Word
Although scientific research on Brahmi is still going on, there is enough evidence to support most of its uses in traditional medicine. The water-loving, non-aromatic herb is a powerhouse of beneficial health chemicals, so make the most of it by getting organic Brahmi tincture or capsules from Secrets of the Tribe.