Brahmi

BRAHMI (Bacopa monniera)
(Water Hyssop)Cultivation - Damp soil or full water in semi shade.

Propagation - Cuttings taken in Summer

Flowers - appear in early Summer

Dimensions - Approx. 30cm high Indefinate width

USES

Medicinal

Can be used in Ayuvedic treatments. Also as a memory
inhancer, laxative, astringent, in cases of
insanity and epilepsy. It can be used as a carditonic
and diuretic. This plant may also have anti-cancer
properties

****All parts of this plant can be toxic if ingested,
so it is recommened to be only used by a qualified
practioner

Magical - None found

FOLKLORE AND HISTORY

I could find very little information on this plant. A
lot of people seem to recommend it but little appears
to be known about it, so if anyone has any additional
information on it, I would love to hear it. Brahmi
is a SE Asian member of the foxglove family and
contains saponins that are similar in effect to
reserpine (an alkaloid) which is found in Indian
Snakeroot (Rauvolfia serpentina). Therefore, I would
recommend this herb to be used in replacement of
Brahmi (where possible) as a lot more appears to be
known about Indian Snakeroot. Brahmi can be grown in
the ground or a pot with regular but not extreme
waterings. Mine is grown this way, but it has not
flowered yet, which is something to keep in mind.

Sources:

The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia
of Herbs and Their Uses by Deni Bown (ISBN
0751333867) Published by DK

Website:




http://www.shaman-australis.com/Website/subcat36.htm>Disclaimer: This is for reference guide only.
Herbs can be used
effectively for mild ailments but medical advice
should be consulted
first to rule out major illnesses.