Ayurvedic Properties
- Taste (Rasa)
- Bitter (Tikta), Astringent (Kashaya), Sweet (Madhura)
- Quality (Guna)
- Light (Laghu)
- Potency (Virya)
- Cold (Sheeta)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka)
- Pungent (Katu)
- Key Constituents
- Bacosides, Brahmine, Herpestine, Alkaloids, Saponins
- Also Known As
- English: Brahmi, Water Hyssop, Thyme-leaved Gratiola
Sanskrit: ब्राह्मी, सरस्वती, सुरश्रेष्ठा, सोमलता
Hindi: ब्राह्मी, जलनीम
What is Water Hyssop (Brahmi / ब्राह्मी)?
Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) is one of the foremost Medhya Rasayana herbs. It grows in moist and marshy areas. The plant has small succulent leaves and white-blue flowers. The whole herb is used. It is the premier brain tonic in Ayurveda, enhancing memory, intellect, and cognitive functions. It is used for anxiety, epilepsy, and mental fatigue. Also known as Bacopa in modern herbalism. The plant is a small creeping herb found near water bodies. Leaves are 0.25 x 0.25 inches with small blue flowers. Dose: Swarasa 8-25 x 25-20 drops; Churna: 4 grams. Verse: 271. Also known as Herpestis monniera. B. monniera Wetts.
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3
Therapeutic Actions (Karma)
- Medhya (intellect promoting)
- Smritiprada (memory enhancing)
- Ayushya (life prolonging)
- Rasayana (rejuvenative)
- Prajasthapana (promotes conception)
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3
Water Hyssop by Condition
Explore how Water Hyssop is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.