Brahmi, also known as waterhyssop and bacopa monnieri, is a non-aromatic perennial herb originating from the wetlands of Australia, Europe, Africa, south east India, Asia and North and South America. It is used in the ancient, traditional Indian medical system, Ayurveda, and it’s named ‘Brahmi’ after Brahmā, the creative aspect of God in the Hindu Trinity. It is considered an herb that promotes “subtle awareness”, as it’s endowed with ‘sattvic’ properties that confer clarity and wisdom Curious? So were we, read on for these Top 5 Health Benefits of Brahmi!
1. Promising effects on cognitive disorders
Although research is still limited it appears that Brahmi could help with Alzheimer’s disease symptoms, the bacosides (a biochemical compound) present in Brahmi may help, by influencing the brain cells and rebuilding brain tissues. There has been a study by the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuroscience (India) that suggested that the neuroprotective properties of the plant might have a curative potential for patients suffering from memory loss.
2. Supports stress and anxiety reduction
Brahmi is known to reduce and regulate stress and anxiety by decreasing the level of cortisol (the stress hormone). It has been used in Ayurveda as a nervine to calm the nervous system.
3. Rich in antioxidants
Brahmi is rich in antioxidants which help protect bodily cells whilst removing free radicals. It seems that Brahmi is particularly effective against acrylamide a toxin that is connected to several neurodegenerative diseases.
4. Anti-inflammatory
Brahmi has great anti-inflammatory properties. Its leaves can be rubbed on affected parts of the body to help reduce swelling and irritation. It is also used to provide relief from conditions such as arthritis and gout, moreover it soothes gastric ulcers and is effective in treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
5. Supports concentration, memory & intelligence
One of most well known benefits of Brahmi is that it stimulates the mind and concentration. It is suggested that Brahmi has a beneficial effect on the hippocampus part of the brain which is responsible for concentration, memory and intelligence. Curiously, the Brahmi leaf has a similar shape to the cerebellum; the part of the brain that helps control memory and concentration.
