There are some herbs and plants that are revered in a certain part of the world and others that find prominence in different countries and cultures. But there are some herbs that are known all around the world for their brilliant health benefits and therapeutic value. Brahmi is one such herb which has been grown all over the world for thousands of years and during this time has been well-known for its medicinal properties.
Brahmi is a perennial herb that has the scientific name of Bacopa monnieri. It has some extremely valuable nutrients which enable it to work its magic on a number of diseases. Among the nutrients found in brahmi are alkaloids, saponins and volatile oils – all of these can bestow amazing benefits on the human body, some of which are discussed below:-
- It boosts cognitive ability and also protects the brain
One of the foremost uses of brahmi is related to the exceptional effect it has on the human brain. Not only does it greatly improve the cognitive abilities of a person, it also protects the brain from a variety of diseases.
A variety of organic compounds present in brahmi ensure that it stimulates your brain and improves concentration. Also it improves your memory by providing an extra dose of strength to the neural pathways in your brain.
Not only does brahmi increase cognitive abilities, it also shields the brain from debilitating diseases like Alzheimer’s. A number of different factors like old age, environmental causes and lifestyle choices can lead to this terrible incurable disease but brahmi has been suggested to be a suitable preventative for it. Brahmi boosts the creation of new neural pathways and lowers the damage caused by free radicals and thus can go a long way in protecting you from this horrid ailment. Brahmi has also been used for a long time as a treatment for epilepsy.
- It provides relief from respiratory diseases
Due to the high amount of pollution in the air around us, a lot of people and many children are succumbing to diseases of the respiratory tract. But brahmi can provide relief to patients of bronchitis, asthma and congestion by effectively acting against the inflammation in the respiratory tract and throat. In addition to this, it also clears out the phlegm that gets lodged in the lungs and airways and ensures that they are expelled from the body. Thus, it clears the airway for easy and efficient respiration.
- It eases digestive problems
Brahmi has also been used historically as a treatment for various digestive issues. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, it can ease the immense discomfort caused by stomach ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome. Brahmi also has a mild sedative effect which is beneficial for digestive issues.
- It is a powerful stress buster
Another of brahmi’s well-known and historical uses is to relieve stress and anxiety. Now more than ever we need brahmi’s help as stress levels are going through the roof!
By controlling the release of hormones that signal to our brain that we are in stress, brahmi can effectively reduce its effect. In particular, brahmi decreases the levels of cortisol, an important stress hormone, thereby inducing a feeling of calm and peace.
- It increases the body’s immunity to diseases
Brahmi’s rich nutrient content combined with a rich dose of anti-oxidants strengthens the body’s immune system, allowing it to resists common illnesses with ease.
Brahmi is undoubtedly an incredible herb but a few precautions must be kept in mind before you start using it. It shouldn’t be consumed for more than 12 weeks consecutively and people suffering from diabetes, urinary infections and heart problems should consult their physicians before embarking on a course of brahmi. Moderate use for short duration is the best way to get the most out of this amazing herb!
To learn more about the properties and effects of brahmi, click here.