Brahmi Vati: Ingredients, Benefits, Dosage and Side Effects

Reviewed By Experts

In the world of traditional Ayurvedic medicine, Brahmi Vati is a renowned herbal formulation known for its cognitive and overall health benefits. “Brahmi” is derived from “Brahm,” signifying positive energy and creative potential. Brahmi is renowned for fostering stability and cultivating a heightened awareness of positive thoughts. It has the remarkable ability to enhance cognitive functions and support the nervous system. Brahmi Vati is a distinguished Ayurvedic remedy for addressing mental disorders and its potential to enhance mental clarity, memory, and overall well-being. [1] In this article, we will delve into the ingredients, benefits, dosage recommendations, and possible side effects of Brahmi Vati.

Brahmi Vati Ingredients

Brahmi Vati is primarily composed of several key ingredients, each contributing to its unique medicinal properties. These ingredients work synergistically to promote cognitive function and overall health. Below are some of the main Brahmi Vati ingredients:

1. Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri)
2. Vacha (Acorus calamus)
3. Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis)
4. Gavjaban (Onosma bracteatum) 
5. Swarna Makshik Bhasma
6. Ras Sindu 
7. Jatamanshi (Nardostachys Jatamansi) [1]

Nutritional Properties of Brahmi Vati ^[5]

The benefits of Brahmi Vati come from the many nutrients in it. Furthermore, the nutrients in the formula come with the following nutritional properties:

1. Memory enhancing property
2. Energizing property for the nervous system
3. Anti-anxiety and anti-depression property
4. Mood stabilizing property
5. Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties
6. Property as a relaxant for pulmonary arteries

Brahmi Vati Benefits

Brahmi Vati is believed to offer many benefits for both the mind and body. Some of its key Brahmi Vati benefits include:

1. Enhanced Cognitive Function or Useful for Alpamedha: 

Due to its Medhya property, Brahmi Vati is known primarily for its ability to enhance cognitive function with a particular focus on alleviating conditions such as poor memory, mental cloudiness, and anxiety. The active constituents within Brahmi, known as bacosides, are responsible for its ability to enhance these aspects of well-being. [1]

2. Stress Reduction or Useful for Tanav and Manshik klam: 

The herbs in Brahmi Vati such as Shankhpushpi and Vacha have a calming effect on the nervous system. These herbs can manage the issues of stress and anxiety quite effectively. Moreover, Brahmi the chief constituent in Brahmi Vati exhibits certain Ayurvedic properties as given below:

• Rasa (Taste): Bitter and Astringent
• Guna (Quality): Light
• Vipaka (Post-digestive Effect): Sweet
• Virya (Potency): Cold

These properties of Brahmi suggest that the herb has the potential to calm and balance the Snayu (nervous system), Indriya (sensory faculties), and Mana (mind). [1]

3. Enhanced Mental Alertness: 

Regular use of Brahmi Vati may lead to increased mental alertness and improved decision-making. Through its Madhura Vipaka, Brahmi nourishes the brain, supporting its health and function. Moreover, its Tikta and Kasaya Rasa help balance Pitta, facilitating the clearing of subtle channels (Srotosodhana action). This process aids in reducing both mental and physical heat (Tapa prashamana) and mitigating irritability and excitability (Chanchalanasha). [1]

4. Comes with Neuroprotective Properties: 

Brahmi Vati may offer neuroprotective effects. Studies show that the drug may protect the brain cells against oxidative stress. [1]

5. Better Sleep: 

There have been reports of improved sleep quality and reduced insomnia or Anidra symptoms when taking Brahmi Vati. [1]

6. Promotes Overall Well-being: 

The combination of ingredients in Brahmi Vati is thought to promote overall health and vitality, aiding in physical and mental well-being. This is due to its Srotasodhana action which nourishes the nerves, brain, and Indriya. [1]

Uses of Brahmi Vati ^[6]

There are several therapeutic Brahmi Vati uses as listed below:

1. Used to treat Alpamedha (Deficient Memory) [1]
2. Used as a remedy for Manshik klam (Mental Exhaustion)
3. Used to manage Tanav (Stress-related Disorders)
4. Used to treat Avasaad (Depressive Symptoms)
5. Used as a cure for Manoroga (Psychological Disorders)
6. Used as a remedy for Anidra (Insomnia)
7. Used as a natural treatment for Apasmara (Epilepsy)

How to use Brahmi Vati

Brahmi Vati may be used in the following ways:

1. In capsule or tablet form
2. In the form of a tincture
3. In the form of a powder or Churna
4. In the form of crude, raw extracts of herbs

The amount and frequency of Brahmi Vati to be taken will be prescribed by your Ayurvedic doctor. While tablets, capsules, and powder are typically taken with warm water or milk, it is ideal to follow the doctor’s prescription for consumption.

Dosage Recommendations

It is crucial to take Brahmi Vati as per the recommended dosage to maximize its benefits and minimize the risk of side effects:

1. Capsule Form: Brahmi Vati is commonly available in tablet form. A typical dosage for adults is 1-2 tablets (250-500 mg) twice a day.
2. Churna Form: Some formulations of Brahmi Vati are available in powder form. The recommended dosage may vary, but it is usually taken in doses of 1 to 2 g, once or twice a day. [2]
3. Crude Herb: Individuals consume 5 to 10 g of the herb per day, dividing the intake into 2 or 3 portions.
4. Tincture (1:5): Generally, a dosage of 10 to 20 mL of the 1:5 tincture is recommended daily, distributed across 2 or 3 separate administrations.
5. Extract: For adults, a typical dosage ranges from 300 to 450 mg daily. These extracts are usually standardized to contain 24% to 55% bacosides, ensuring consistency and potency.
6. For children aged 6 to 12 years, Bacopa can be given at a regular dose of 225 mg, and this regimen can be safely continued for up to 6 months. [4]

Possible Brahmi Vati Side Effects

While Brahmi Vati is generally considered safe when used as directed, there is a possibility of experiencing Brahmi Vati side effects, especially if consumed in excess or by individuals with specific sensitivities. 

The most common side effects are:

1. The most frequently observed side effects are primarily associated with its cholinergic properties, leading to common issues such as nausea, gastrointestinal discomfort, and increased intestinal motility. 
2. Studies have also shown that with a high dose of 500 mg/per kg body weight, there is a gradual decrease in appetite over time. It is noteworthy that the study determined a median lethal dose to be 2,500 mg/kg, which is relatively high and suggests a low risk of acute toxicity. [2]
3. Yet another study indicated decreased sperm motility, viability, and sperm count. Interestingly, while libido remained unaffected, fertility was significantly reduced. [2]

Precautions to Keep in Mind

1. Overdose of Brahmi Vati may have an impact on your brain health and nervous system. Though limited research is available on this subject, it is best to consume this medication as per the dosage prescribed by an Ayurvedic expert.
2. Whether this medication is safe for pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers is not known clearly. Therefore, to avoid unwanted side effects, it is best to consult your healthcare provider before taking this medication.
3. This medication may cause drowsiness and sleepiness. Therefore, you should avoid driving after taking this medication.
4. This medication needs to be kept out of the reach of children, as an overdose may lead to unwanted side effects.

FAQs

Conclusion

Brahmi Vati is a well-regarded herbal formulation deeply rooted in the tradition of Ayurvedic medicine. Its blend of natural ingredients, including Brahmi and other herbs, offers a range of potential cognitive and overall health benefits. However, it is essential to approach the use of Brahmi Vati with caution and adhere to recommended dosages. When used responsibly, Brahmi Vati can be a valuable addition to your wellness regimen, supporting cognitive function and overall vitality.

Disclaimer:

This article is written from a health and wellness perspective and is not medical advice. Kindly seek the help of a certified medical practitioner before initiating any treatment.

References:

1. Critical Review on Brahmi Vati- An Ayurvedic Formulation Effective In Management of Memory Loss
2. Neurocognitive Effect of Nootropic Drug Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) in Alzheimer’s Disease
3. Effect of Brahmi vati and Sarpagandha Ghana vati in management of essential hypertension – A randomized, double blind, clinical study
4. Bacopa monnieri
5. Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) as functional food ingredient in food processing industry
6. CLINICAL EFFICACY OF BRAHMI VATI: A CRITICAL REVIEW