Ayurvedic Medicinal Plants
Bacopa monnieri (L) Wettst
Family : Scrophulariaceae
PLANT NAME IN DIFFERENT LANGUAGES
English: Brahmi
Hindi: Brabmbhi
Malayalam: Brahmi
Sanskrit Name: Brahmi, Trayamana, Seetakamini, Trayanthi, Bhekaparni
MEDICINAL PROPERTIES
The leaves of this plant are succulent and relatively thick. Leaves are oblanceolate and are arranged oppositely on the stem. The flowers are small and white, with four or five petals. Its ability to grow in water makes it a popular aquarium plant. It can even grow in slightly brackish conditions. Propagation is often achieved through cuttings.
It commonly grows in marshy areas throughout India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, China, Taiwan, and Vietnam, and is also found in Florida, Hawaii and other southern states of the USA where it can be grown in damp conditions by the pond or bog garden.
It has been used in traditional Ayurvedic treatment for epilepsy and asthma. It is also used in Ayurveda for ulcers, tumors, ascities, enlarged spleen, indigestion, inflammations, leprosy, anemia, and biliousness. Brahmi is used for the preparation of the medicated ghee Padadihridham which is an important medicine for the bite of Viper.