BRAHMI (WATER HYSSOP)

Description

Brahmi is non-aromatic soft, perennial, creeping herb with succulent leaves. It has numerous branches that grow especially in wet and marshy places. This edible plant can grow up to 6 inches in height, branches creep horizontally to cover the ground.

Chemical constituents:
Although many chemical compounds have been isolated from Brahmi, the active fractions of this medicinal plant contain bacoside-A and bacoside-B. A number of other phytochemicals such as alkaloids, glycosides, flavonoids, saponins etc.
Properties: The whole plant can be used for medicinal purposes. It has bitter and sweet taste (Rasa), cooling energy (Virya) and sweet post-digestive effect (Vipaka). It normalizes all three Doshas and all Dhatus (tissues), especially nerve, blood and plasma. It has an effect on numerous Srotas (system); like circulatory, digestive, nervous, excretory, muscular and reproductive..

Benefits:

1. A Rich Source of Antioxidants
   Calling Brahmi a high source of antioxidants is not an exaggeration. In fact, it can protect you against cell damage due to harmful molecules (better known as free radicals). And did you know the damage caused by these harmful molecules can lead to severe ailments like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease?
   The prime compound of Bacopa monnieri neutralises the free radicals. It prevents fat molecules from reacting with the free radicals, resulting in lipid peroxidation.
2. Memory loss-Brahmi is useful in managing age-related memory loss due to the presence of antioxidants. It may reduce the damage caused because of free radicals and enhance learning and retaining potential in older people. Brahmi may also be useful in reducing the accumulation of a protein responsible for Alzheimer’s disease.
3. Irritable bowel syndrome-Brahmi has the property of managing intestinal spasms. It may provide temporary relief from the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), however, it does not treat IBS permanently
4. Anxiety-Brahmi may be useful in managing anxiety due to its anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) property. It may reduce the symptoms of anxiety and mental fatigue while increasing memory span. Brahmi may also prevent neuroinflammation (inflammation of the nervous tissue) which is responsible for anxiety
5. Depression- Brahmi has neuroprotective, anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) and antidepressant properties. These properties may be useful in managing mental illnesses like anxiety, depression and insanity. Brahmi may be useful in promoting mental health, intellect and improving memory.
6. Alleviating ADHD Symptoms-Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Anyone developing the symptoms will experience impulsivity, inattentiveness, and hyperactivity.
   And science suggests that an adequate amount of Brahmi extract a day will keep poor self-control, restlessness, impulsivity, and inattention in children at bay. In addition to this, it can also improve attention, impulse control, and cognition.
   Is Brahmi safe?
   Bacopa monnieri is generally safe, but some people may experience nausea, stomach cramps, and diarrhea. Pregnant women should avoid this herb, while those on medications should speak with their healthcare provider before taking it.

Contradictions:
Avoid taking brahmi or consult your doctor if you want to take brahmi during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Sedative: Because brahmi has sedative properties; it is advised to use it with caution in combination with other known sedative medicines.