The Brahmi plant, which derives its name from Lord Brahma, has been in use for almost 3,000 years. Ayurveda practitioners claim that Brahmi has dozens of medicinal properties ranging from fighting bronchitis to asthma, and from boosting the intelligence to maintaining cholesterol levels.The curative list of Brahmi, an Ayurveda
practitioner possesses with him, runs into several pages. This implies that Brahmi is indeed a divine herb with unparalleled medicinal properties.
Of late, Brahmi has been commercialised with several drug and cosmetic companies launching a number of products. Brahmi hair oil and Brahmi chyavanprash have become quite popular with women and students.
The entire Brahmi plant goes into Ayurveda and Unani formulations. The plant is dried in shade and then powdered for use in herbal formulations. Extracts are also obtained from the fresh plant. The leaves are bitter to taste.
Though recent research studies have shown that Brahmi is absolutely safe as a medicinal herb, doctors often caution against its over consumption. An overdose of Brahmi formulation or its fresh extract creates health complications. Fatigue and headache are the common symptoms of Brahmi abuse.
Otherwise, besides being a major brain tonic, Brahmi has been found to be good in treating health problems like epilepsy, heart diseases, hair loss, ulcers and diarrhea.
Home remedies
w For those suffering from bouts of epileptic fits, Brahmi juice is considered to be the best natural remedy.
w If you are suffering from insomnia and anxiety, simply rub Brahmi oil on the scalp. You will get sound sleep.
w Those conscious of their hair may try Brahmi hair oil formulations. Brahmi oil promotes hair growth, and keep the scalp free of fungal infections like dandruff.
w Paste prepared from Brahmi plant can be applied externally on wounds for quick healing.
w Practitioners of herbal medicine recommend decoction prepared from Aswagandha and Brahmi plants for quick relief from nagging headaches caused by migraine.