Brahmi, also called gotu kola, is an ayurvedic herb traditionally known as a brain and nerve tonic. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, a study of 13 women showed that use of brahmi decreased joint pain and improved dexterity. The herb comes in several different forms and has many other health benefits. Brahmi is natural and produces very few side effects.
Identification
The brahmi plant has small fan-shaped leaves with white or purplish pink flowers. It produces a small oval fruit. The plant itself is tasteless and odorless. The leaves and stems are the parts of the plant used for medicinal purposes. Brahmi is native to India, China, Indonesia, Japan, South Africa, Sri Lanka and the South Pacific.
History
Brahmi has been used as a medicinal herb in India, China and Indonesia for thousands of years. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, legend claims that a Chinese herbalist lived for over 200 years as a result of using the herb earning it the name "fountain of life." Alternative names include gotu kola, centella, centella asiatica, hydrocotyle, Indian pennywort, luei gong gen and marsh pennywort.
Benefits
The Yoga Journal lists several health benefits of brahmi. Robin DiPasquale, chair of botanical medicine at Bastyr University in Seattle, recommends drinking two cups of brahmi tea daily to improve focus and memory. The Yoga Journal also recommends using the herb as a sleep aid. A warm cup of brahmi tea can help relax you and fall back to sleep. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, a study showed that brahmi decreased joint pain and skin hardening in women with scleroderma. Brahmi also can even be used as a supplement to promote healthy hair.
Other Medical Uses
Brahmi is used to treat chronic venous insufficiency, a condition in which blood vessels lose their elasticity and blood pools in the legs. Brahmi helps reduce swelling and improve circulation. The herb also contains triterpenoids, chemical compounds proven to help heal wounds. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, triterpenoids strengthen the skin, boost antioxidants in wounds and increase blood supply. Because of this, brahmi has been used to treat minor burns and psoriasis.
Forms and Dosage
Brahmi can be taken in the form of a tea, taken as a capsule or applied topically. Dosage varies depending on your condition; however, standard dosages are recommended by the University of Maryland Medical Center. You may make a tea out of the dried herb and drink it three times daily. Powdered brahmi can be taken in the form of a capsule ranging from 1,000 to 4,000 mg. Ointments are also available.
Side Effects
The University of Maryland Medical Center says that brahmi may affect the liver, and those with liver disease or taking medications for the liver should consult a doctor before taking brahmi. While side effects are rare, they may include skin allergy and burning sensations for topical use. Headache, nausea, dizziness and extreme drowsiness have been reported by those who have taken very high doses of brahmi. Alternative medicines should never take the place of conventional medical treatment and you should always consult your physician before taking beginning alternative treatments.
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