Botanical Overview
Bacopa monnieri (family Plantaginaceae), commonly known as Brahmi, water hyssop, or herb of grace, is a creeping perennial aquatic plant valued for its nootropic and neuroprotective properties. The whole plant, including leaves and stems, is traditionally used in herbal medicine across India, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, Australia, and North America.
Energetics
Bacopa is considered cooling and moistening in energetic quality, with a bitter and sweet taste profile. It has a descending energetic directionality and is tonifying to qi, especially supporting nervous system vitality.
Primary Actions
- Cognitive enhancement
- Nootropic effects
- Neuroprotection
- Antioxidant activity
- Anti-inflammatory effects
Indications
Western
- Memory loss
- Anxiety
- Cognitive decline
- Attention deficit
Syndromes
- Cognitive impairment
- Neuroinflammation
- Oxidative stress
TCM
- Mental fatigue
- Poor memory
Syndromes
- Heart and Kidney yin deficiency
- Phlegm misting the mind
Ayurveda
- Poor memory
- Anxiety
- Epilepsy
- Asthma
Syndromes
- Vata imbalance
- Nerve degeneration
- Madhumeha (diabetes)
Unani
- Weakness
- Nervous exhaustion
Syndromes
Constituents & Mechanisms
Key phytochemicals include bacosides, flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, and phenolic compounds which contribute to Bacopa’s neuroprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Extract standardized to 20% bacosides, 300-450 mg daily
- Decoction using 3-5 g daily
- Powder 1-3 g daily
Safety & Contraindications
Generally well tolerated but caution advised in pregnancy and lactation due to limited data. Potential sedation may increase effects of sedative drugs. Use carefully in thyroid disorders under medical supervision.
Astrological Correspondences
Planetary and elemental rulers are not well established for Bacopa monnieri based on current authoritative sources.
Selected References
- Bacopa monnieri: A Review of Pharmacology and Clinical Effectiveness in Cognitive Disorders
- HMPC Assessment Report on Bacopa monnieri
- Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi) in Ayurveda
- Plant Resources of South-East Asia: Bacopa monnieri