Stem plant
Scrophulariaceae, brahmi, small fat leaf.
Medicinal drug
The dried herb is usually used. The pressed juice from the fresh herb and extracts from the drug are also used.
Ingredients
Brahmi contains the steroid saponins bacoside A and B.
Effects
The drug is believed to have antioxidant, adaptogenic, neuroprotective, and cholinergic effects, among others. In particular, brahmi is thought to improve intellectual performance.
Indications for use
Brahmi has traditionally been used in Ayurvedic medicine for a number of ailments, including anxiety, forgetfulness, and cognitive disorders. In the West, it is marketed as a smart drug to promote intellectual performance. Some studies have been conducted, but its efficacy in humans has not been reliably demonstrated to date, in our estimation.
Adverse effects
We are unable to adequately assess potential risks based on the literature available to us.