Organic Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri)

Herbs are Sold By the Ounce, Price is Per Ounce

Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri)

Botanical Name: Bacopa monnieri
Common Names: Brahmi, Water Hyssop, Herb of Grace, Indian Pennywort
Family: Plantaginaceae
Origin: Native to wetlands in India, Australia, Europe, Africa, Asia, and North and South America
Parts Used: Leaves, stems, and sometimes the whole plant

Habitat & Cultivation

Brahmi thrives in warm, tropical climates, particularly in wet and marshy areas. It can often be found growing along riverbanks, in swamps, and in other waterlogged environments. Brahmi can be cultivated in gardens as long as it is kept moist and has access to full sunlight. It can also be grown in containers or aquatic gardens.

History & Folklore

Brahmi has a rich history in Ayurveda, where it has been used for centuries as a brain tonic and cognitive enhancer. The name "Brahmi" is derived from "Brahma," the Hindu god of creation, reflecting its reputation for fostering mental clarity and creativity. It is also mentioned in ancient texts like the Charaka Samhita as a powerful herb for the nervous system.

Metaphysical Properties

Brahmi is associated with enhancing memory, concentration, and mental clarity. It is often used in meditative practices to promote a calm and focused mind. Brahmi is also believed to open the crown chakra, facilitating spiritual growth and connection.

Botany & Identification

Brahmi is a creeping perennial herb with small, succulent leaves that are oblong and 4-6 mm thick. The flowers are small, white, or light purple, with four or five petals. It has a sprawling growth habit, making it suitable for ground cover in moist areas.

Growing & Harvesting

Brahmi prefers full sun to partial shade and needs consistently moist or wet soil. It can be propagated from cuttings or seeds and grows well in USDA zones 8-11. Harvesting typically involves cutting the leaves and stems, which can be dried or used fresh.

Constituents

Brahmi contains several active compounds, including bacosides (A and B), alkaloids (brahmine, herpestine), flavonoids, saponins, and sterols.

Energetics, Taste & Medicinal Actions

• Energetics: Cooling, calming
• Taste: Bitter, astringent
• Medicinal Actions: Nootropic (enhances cognitive function), adaptogen, nervine, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antianxiety

System Affinities

Brahmi is particularly beneficial for the nervous system and the brain. It supports cognitive function, reduces anxiety and stress, and improves memory. It is also used for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can benefit various body systems.

Uses

• Cognitive Enhancement: Brahmi is renowned for improving memory, concentration, and overall cognitive function.
• Stress Relief: As an adaptogen, Brahmi helps the body manage stress and reduce anxiety.
• Nervous System Support: It acts as a nervine tonic, supporting and calming the nervous system.
• Anti-inflammatory & Antioxidant: Brahmi has properties that help reduce inflammation and protect against oxidative stress.
• Skin Health: Brahmi can be applied topically to heal wounds, reduce inflammation, and treat skin conditions like eczema.

Cautions

Brahmi is generally considered safe when used appropriately. However, high doses may cause digestive upset, nausea, or dry mouth. It may interact with certain medications, such as sedatives or thyroid medications, so it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before using Brahmi, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking other medications.

Research and Studies

1. Cognitive Function: A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology showed that Bacopa monnieri has potential cognitive-enhancing properties, improving memory retention and reducing anxiety .
2. Anti-anxiety: Research in Phytotherapy Research indicated that Brahmi could reduce symptoms of anxiety and support overall mental health .
3. Antioxidant Activity: A study in Free Radical Biology & Medicine found that Brahmi has significant antioxidant properties, helping to protect the brain from oxidative damage.