Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri L) is a small creeping herb, known for supporting better brain health. The name “Brahmi” comes from the word “Brahma”, a key God in Hindu tradition. Brahmi has been known for its use in neurological disorders for a long period of time. In many countries, it has been a popular herb due to its healing benefits. As a result, it has attracted attention in many research works.
The first record of Brahmi appears in the Charaka Samhita, a famous ancient Ayurvedic text. It has remained a gold standard in Ayurvedic medical practice, especially for boosting better brain health.
People like to take Brahmi in many different forms depending on health goals. It is available as tea, powder, tablets, and even fresh leaves. Many use Brahmi oil for hair care. Moreover, some people eat fresh Brahmi leaves on an empty stomach. Some others blend it into green juices and herbal chutneys.
Brahmi (Bacopa Monnieri) and Brain Function:
Brahmi or Bacopa monnieri has been a common and important part of Ayurvedic medicine for a long time. People value it for its ability to support better brain health, enhancing longevity, learning and all other mental function. Traditionally, it is popular as a brain tonic. Now, Brahmi is a natural nootropic that promotes better brain health by supporting memory, attention, alertness, and mental clarity.
Notably, Brahmi contains many helpful plant compounds, such as:
- Bacoside A & B
- Bacopa saponins
- D-mannitol, acid A, monnieri)
- Alkaloids
- Flavonoids
- Glycosides
- Sapogenin
Importantly, Bacosides (Bacoside A & Bacoside B) are most important. They support neuroprotection and neurotransmitter balance and help to improve synaptic plasticity-a key for better memory and learning. Bacosides help in reducing oxidative stress in the brain and thereby supports better brain health.
Additionally, brahmine and herpestine helps with mental relaxation and stress reduction. Flavonoids, such as luteolin, apigenin have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. They protect the brain cells from damage. Moreover, it can also improve blood circulation in the brain.
What Research Says
A 2014 study with 17 people found that one dose of Brahmi extract (320 mg and 640 mg) improved:
- mental focus
- mood
- and lowered cortisol, the stress hormone.
The Higher 640 mg dose had a stronger effect.
Another small study with 30 healthy adults tested 450 mg daily for 12-week. It showed no major change in memory score. However, the group, taking Brahmi, showed reduced anxiety. (Bacopa monnieri by Eric a. Walker; Mark V. Pellegrini)
Medical Students Study (2016): This study on medical students found that Brahmi helped to improve memory and attention over 6 weeks.
Brahmi (Bacopa Monnieri) and ADHD Symptoms:
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder. It is a condition that is responsible for causing:
- hyperactivity,
- impulsivity,
- restlessness, and
- inability to focus or pay attention.
- It may affect children and adults alike. The state of behavior interferes with daily functioning or development.
Interestingly, many studies show that Brahmi (Bacopa Monnieri) may help in managing ADHD symptoms. Research shows that :
- Brahmi supports brain function.
- It may help to improve focus and attention in both kids and adults with ADHD.
One key study (2008-2010) investigated the effectiveness of Standardized Bacopa Monnieri Extract (SBME) in making improvement to the severity of the symptoms of ADHD in children.
What did the Study Bring to Light?
This study showed that children with ADHD who took standarardized Bacopa extract had up to 50% improvement in test scores.(Usha Pinakin Dave et al. Adv Mind Body Med. 2014;28(2):10-15.)
Brahmi may reduce Stress and Anxiety:
Most importantly, people in modern society struggle with stress and anxiety. Fortunately, Brahmi works as adaptogen- a substance that helps the body deal with stress.
According to Ayurvedic texts, Brahmi has the ability to reduce stress and anxiety. It can also support mental balance and calmness. Hence, it is a key to achieving better brain health.
Furthermore, Brahmi helps by:
- lowering cortisol level (the stress hormone)
- promoting relaxation of both body and mind.
- increasing serotonin and dopamine- feel good hormones that improve mood.
More Benefits of Brahmi
Brahmi is not just for mental health. In addition, it offers many other health benefits. It is a powerful antioxidant that:
- Boosts immune system
- Helps in detoxification
- Moreover, reduces inflammation, which may help with arthritis and other joint pains
- In addition, promotes skin and hair health.
- Slows aging, making skin look fresh and youthful.
Possible Side Effects of Brahmi:
Brahmi is usually safe for most people. Still, it can sometimes cause side effects like:
- nausea
- stomach cramps
- diarrhea in some people.
Therefore, it is not often recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women. One should always consult a physician before using it.
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