Neer Brahmi

Neer Brahmi is a medicinal plant. It's botanical name is Bacopa Monnieri, family - Plantaginaceae. It's more commonly known as Indian pennywort, herb of grace, Brahmi, water hyssop. It grows abundantly in marsh land which means it's water tolerant. Likes acidic soil. Grows like a hanging creeper and also branches out. So it's good to grow them in hanging pots too. They are very easily propagated by cuttings. Take 3-5 " cutting with few leaves and nodes and dip it in aloe vera Juice. Aloe vera acts as a rooting hormone. Plant it in wet soil. 

This herb got its name from our creator Brahma. There are mentions about this power herb in our Vedas, the Charaka Samhita, the Sushruta Samhita which are over 3000 years old. They mentioned the benefits of Brahmi in promoting Medhya ( Intellect) Rasayana (rejuvenation) and more.

So the question then arises that how does one use this magical herb? Well everything in excess is bad so remember that we need to use it as minimal as possible. 

It's got a bitter taste. It's said not to be taken on an empty stomach. It could cause nausea or gastric problem. So how do we consume this? Well one could eat 5 to 6 tender leaves raw,  or,  pound them and boil it with water and add some honey to reduce the bitterness and drink this concoction after a meal. It will help boost your brain power or memory. It's said our sages consumed this so that they could retain the scriptures which they studied for years without any problems. I have read of people using the leaves while making dosa batter but I would advise you to please check the bitter quotient before adding this. Some sun dry and powder and use, the efficacy of this am not so sure. So it can be safely said it's tonic for the brain.

It's a maintenance free plant so do grow this.

Happy Growing!!

Do feel free to share your views and knowledge on this in the comments.