How to Incorporate Brahmi into Your Daily Routine: Tips and Tricks

An old Ayurvedic herb known as Brahmi can significantly impact your mental health. Brahmi has been utilised for various purposes in Ayurveda for a long time, even before mental health medications were developed. These purposes include supporting healthy nervous system function, reducing anxiety, depression, and stress, enhancing memory, and even enhancing creativity.

This herb, also known by the Latin name Bacopa monnieri, benefits those looking for all-natural solutions to boost their creativity and improve their mental health. 

Brahmi is a member of a group of herbs used in Ayurveda known as Rasayana, or longevity enhancing agents, which help with anti-ageing, disease immunity, increased mental acuity, and reinforced physical tissues. 

In addition, the goddess of creation, wisdom, knowledge, and other titles are attributed to it since it is thought to be strong.

Importance of Incorporating Ayurveda to Combat Everyday Issues

Ayurvedic adaptogens, memory enhancers, and stress relievers commonly contain the medicinal plant Brahmi as one of their main constituents. Brahmi is a plant with small white blossoms and oval-shaped leaves widely accessible at ? Kerala Ayurveda in capsules and tablets. Walking through swampy areas, you could even see this wonder plant in all its natural splendour.

Brahmi is widely available because it is grown on a modest scale nationwide in regulated temperature and humidity environments. Brahmi is a mythological figure connected to Brahma, the god of wisdom. The plant is said to have been blessed by God, and individuals who use it properly—in the correct amounts for the proper lengths of time—might notice improved recall and memory.

Ancient sages have used Brahmi for hundreds of years as a mind rejuvenator. Brahmi is still used today to sharpen attention while engaging in extended meditation. Not only that, though. There are several undiscovered advantages of Brahmi.

Advantages of Using Brahmi to Promote Better Health

Receiving sufficient benefits often takes one to two months. You may pick between taking a pill or a powder; both offer the same advantages. It might take two to three months for the full effects of Brahmi’s benefits for hair growth to become apparent. 

According to studies, taking Brahmi tablets or drinking Brahmi juice every day for four weeks helps to relieve stress-related symptoms, including anxiety, palpitations, nervousness, sleeplessness, exhaustion, headaches, and stomach pain. 

The following are some Brahmi advantages that are supported by research:

1. Memory Enhancement

Participants were put through the Wechsler Memory Scale in a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled experiment. According to the results, people who took Brahmi had a noticeable improvement in their overall memory score. ¹

Another 12-week trial involving 46 healthy people revealed that, compared to the placebo, daily 300 mg of Brahmi dramatically accelerated learning and the processing of visual information and memory. ²

2. Lowers Tension

Three main mental states are distinguished in Ayurvedic psychology: inertia, agitation, balance, clarity, and tranquillity. The third characteristic of serenity in mind, according to Ayurveda, is brought about by Brahmi. Consuming 300 mg of Brahmi daily resulted in a considerable reduction in anxiety, according to two 12-week investigations that supported this conventional wisdom. ³

3. Reduction of Stress

As an adaptogenic herb, Brahmi aids in boosting your resistance to stress and other strains on your physical being and mind. In addition, recent studies show that this plant may elevate your mood by reducing cortisol levels. Because the hormone cortisol is responsible for causing stress, reducing your cortisol levels can help you feel less stressed.

According to traditional knowledge, this plant is said to help with remembering your more spiritual, deeper self. Additionally, it makes it easier for you to benefit from spiritual practices that aid in your capacity to heal from trauma and get spiritual inspiration.

4. Ensures the Health of Hair

The herb Bacopa monnieri, well-known for its soothing effects and pleasant flavour, prevents hair loss and early greying. These problems are attributed to the pitta dosha, or fundamental force of conversion and metabolism, in Ayurveda, which is too much heat in the physique and mind.

5. Encourages Sleep

Brahmi is one of the often-suggested herbs for improving sleep at night by Ayurvedic practitioners like me since it lowers tension and anxiety levels. In addition, this herb helps support your body’s adherence to circadian cycles by assisting in mental calmness because stress, worry, anxiety, and fear frequently keep us awake at night. ⁴

6. Normalises Blood Pressure

Brahmi may enhance endothelial function, which controls the tightening and loosening of blood vessels to control blood pressure. It also allows the body to use better nitric acid, which is suitable for blood pressure. Brahmi supports normal blood pressure by controlling and regulating these processes. ⁵

7. Strong Antioxidant Properties

Antioxidants eliminate free radicals produced by bodily functions like digestion. Brahmi is a potent antioxidant that may fight off free radicals or poisons to shield you from oxidative harm, shield you from different diseases, and promote general well-being. 

In addition, since it increases antioxidant activity in the kidneys, it can enhance renal function and help efficiently remove body pollutants. ⁶

8. Controlling the Signs of ADHD

Hyperactivity and inattentiveness are hallmarks of the neurological condition ADHD. Impulsive actions and patterns of restlessness are frequent among ADHD patients, whether young or adults. In addition, parents’ relationships with their children may be impacted by these tendencies and behaviours, which are frequently troublesome. 

The relaxing properties of Brahmi affect the brain. Children may focus on something useful and constructive, which helps lessen hyperactivity. ⁷

9. Heals Injuries

The juice of the Brahmi plant may be used on wounds to promote quick healing and to sanitise the region that has been injured. Brahmi juice should be applied to the afflicted region since it helps prevent scarring by giving the skin a smooth and supple feel.

10. Manages Blood Sugar

Brahmi leaves have been studied extensively for their effects on blood sugar, and they are highly suggested for people with diabetes. A healthy lifestyle and reduced diabetic symptoms have been linked to the frequent ingestion of Brahmi leaves. ⁸

11. Enhances Liver Performance

It is the liver’s primary function to store pitta energy and to facilitate the elimination of poisons from the body. 

The Ayurvedic herb Brahmi is said to aid in detoxification by stimulating liver activity. Brahmi is a herb that helps the liver work more efficiently without upsetting your primary energy or doshas. ⁹

12. Prevents an Asthma Attack

Those with asthma may benefit significantly from Brahmi. If you’re having trouble breathing from bronchitis, congestion, a cold, or sinusitis, try chewing on a few Brahmi leaves or steeping them in tea. Moreover, it helps eliminate phlegm and mucus from the respiratory tracts and throat, making it effective as an expectorant.

13. Good for Skin

Brahmi is a strongly encouraged herb for maintaining a youthful glow while treating various skin issues. Brahmi’s antioxidants and anti-ageing qualities encourage the creation of collagen and new cells. 

In addition, it is used in pharmacological and Ayurvedic medicines to reduce stretch marks, skin discolouration, and dramatic weight loss during pregnancy. The anti-inflammatory qualities of Brahmi can also help those suffering from acne or skin allergies. ¹⁰

How can you Identify the Brahmi Plant?

The leaves of the non-fragrant, perennial creeping plant, Brahmi, are delicate and succulent. It thrives in moist, swampy areas and spreads via multiple branches. This delicious plant may become as tall as 6 inches, with branches that spread out to cover the ground. 

Coin-shaped, green leaves with minute markings grow in clusters of two or three down the length of a hairy stalk. The flowers bloom throughout the year and are tiny, white and purple. The flower has four or five petals.

8 Smart Ways to Incorporate Brahmi into Your Daily Routine

3–5 gms (powder) and 30 ml (juice) of Brahmi per day are the suggested doses. But take advice from an Ayurvedic physician to establish your dose and duration if you have a pre-existing condition or medical history. 

Women can take Brahmi while pregnant or nursing only when directed by an Ayurvedic physician.

Brahmi can be ingested or used topically for different skin and hair benefits. Let’s discuss some common applications of Brahmi that provide good outcomes.

1. Brahmi Paste

The Brahmi paste may be used topically in the house for healthy skin and joints. In addition, the Brahmi paste’s somewhat thicker viscosity than oil makes it simple to use as a facial or hair mask. Depending on the ailment you seek to cure, you may make the paste by mixing water or carrier oil with Brahmi powder.

2. Brahmi Oil

Relieve arthritic pain and inflammation by massaging joints with Brahmi oil. Additionally, the oil can encourage hair growth and skin cell renewal. Finally, Brahmi oil for scalp massage enhances memory and strengthens the nervous system as a whole.

3. Brahmi Powder

With either hot or cold water, Brahmi powder can be taken. Combining it with a teaspoon of ghee increases memory and nervous system performance.

4. Brahmi Tablet / Syrups

You can find Brahmi tablet or Syrups as well, which can be found in both online and offline stores. To understand the precise technique and dosage to take Brahmi to get the greatest effect, however, you must consult an Ayurvedic practitioner before consuming it as a supplement. 

5. Brahmi Juice

Using a pestle and mortar and a few drops of water, mash the plant’s stems and leaves into a paste. Next, press the mixture to extract the juice using a muslin cloth or sieve.

6. Brahmi Ghee

It is a fantastic brain meal that combines the advantages of Brahmi and ghee, which are both great for boosting immunity. You may cook regular meals with this kind of ghee to include it in your diet. First, add a cup of ghee to a vessel to begin making it. 

Then fill the pan with 4 cups of drinking water plus 1/4 cup of Brahmi juice. On moderate to low heat, slowly simmer until it is reduced to 1 cup (by letting the liquid evaporate).

7. Add Brahmi to Lentil Soups

Warm lentil soups can benefit from adding Brahmi powder or fresh leaves (ideally). Additionally, you may add 1/4 tsp of crushed coriander, cumin, and fennel seeds to this combination throughout the summer and fall. 

Your favourite soups will taste better, be easier to digest, and benefit from Brahmi’s advantages for mental health if you add the seasonally appropriate ghee and spice blend.

8. Cook Brahmi with Spinach

To the ghee, add the freshly picked leaves or 1/4 tsp. of Brahmi powder, along with 1/4 tsp. of cumin seeds, 1/4 tsp. of turmeric powder, and pink Himalayan mineral rock salt to taste. 

Then, boil the spinach using the abovementioned herbs for a bit of time, just long enough for the leaves to wilt. With tortillas, rice, or lentils, you may have this straightforward stir-fry of spinach.

Will Brahmi offer better results if you mix it with Ashwagandha?

You may take Brahmi and Ashwagandha together. The combination of these two helps increase brain activity. Two cups of water are brought to a boil, and one teaspoon of the Brahmi and Ashwagandha powder is added. Boil the mixture until one glass remains. For optimal benefits, use this herbal concoction once daily, at least. You’ll get better sleep and lessen the tension and worry that keep you up at night.

Bottom Line

Brahmi has advantages for the brain and nerves and its application in hair and skin care products. But if your daily dosage exceeds, you should get medical attention. It is a herbal memory booster that increases recollection and slows ageing-related cognitive loss. 

If used at the prescribed dosage, Brahmi is safe. A healthcare practitioner should be consulted if you have concerns about the recommended dose. 

If you have previous experiences with thyroid problems, lung conditions, or stomach ulcers, you should use caution when using it. High dosages might cause nausea, palpitations, and dizziness. 

The liver and general immune system both benefit from Brahmi. It may be applied as a massage oil to soothe joint discomfort and calm the nerves. Tablets, liquid extracts, paste, powder, oil, and capsules are all ways Brahmi can be consumed. 

Frequently Asked Questions

References

1. Stough, C., Lloyd, J., Clarke, J., Downey, L. A., Hutchison, C. W., Rodgers, T., & Nathan, P. J. (2001). The chronic effects of an extract of Bacopa monniera (Brahmi) on cognitive function in healthy human subjects. Psychopharmacology, 156(4), 481-484.[↩]
2. Raghav, S., Singh, H., Dalal, P. K., Srivastava, J. S., & Asthana, O. P. (2006). Randomized controlled trial of standardized Bacopa monniera extract in age-associated memory impairment. Indian Journal of Psychiatry, 48(4), 238-242.[↩]
3. Bhattacharya, S. K., Bhattacharya, A., Kumar, A., & Ghosal, S. (2000). Antioxidant activity of Bacopa monniera in rat frontal cortex, striatum and hippocampus. Phytotherapy Research: An International Journal Devoted to Pharmacological and Toxicological Evaluation of Natural Product Derivatives, 14(3), 174-179. Calabrese, C., Gregory, W. L., Leo, M., Kraemer, D., Bone, K., & Oken, B. (2008). Effects of a standardized Bacopa monnieri extract on cognitive performance, anxiety, and depression in the elderly: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 14(6), 707-713.[↩]
4. Sathyanarayanan, V., Thomas, T., & Einöther, S. J. (2013). Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) improves sleep quality in older adults with sleep disturbances: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 19(4), 370-376.[↩]
5. Sadauskas, D., Grigonis, D., Vaitkaitis, G., Klimasauskas, A., Kazlauskas, S., & Vezelyte, N. (2019). Effect of Bacopa monnieri (L.) on endothelial function and blood pressure in prehypertension: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 234, 149-156.[↩]
6. Bhattacharya, S. K., Bhattacharya, A., Kumar, A., & Ghosal, S. (2000). Antioxidant activity of Bacopa monniera in rat frontal cortex, striatum and hippocampus. Phytotherapy Research: An International Journal Devoted to Pharmacological and Toxicological Evaluation of Natural Product Derivatives, 14(3), 174-179.[↩]
7. Sumathi, T., Niranjali Devaraj, S., & Anitha, P. (2015). Cognitive enhancing and antioxidant effects of Bacopa monnieri (L.) in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Journal of Child Neurology, 30(9), 1117-1127.[↩]
8. Aguiar, S., & Borowski, T. (2013). Neuropharmacological review of the nootropic herb Bacopa monnieri. Rejuvenation Research, 16(4), 313-326.[↩]
9. Bhattacharya, S. K., Bhattacharya, A., Kumar, A., & Ghosal, S. (1999). Protective effect of Bacopa monniera on ischemia-induced brain damage. Phytotherapy Research: An International Journal Devoted to Pharmacological and Toxicological Evaluation of Natural Product Derivatives, 13(3), 209-213.[↩]
10. Chaudhari, K. S., Tiwari, N. R., Tiwari, R. R., Sharma, R. S., & Sharma, S. K. (2013). Bacopa monnieri (Linn.) as an effective topical anti-aging agent in Indian population. Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 26(6), 316-324.[↩]