are brahmi and gotu kola the same

While there are herbalists that refer to gotu kola as brahmi, it’s important to understand that gotu kola is a different herb that belongs to the carrot family. Also known as Centella Asiatica

, it has been known to be beneficial for memory loss.

Full Answer

What is Brahmi/gotu kola?

Tridoshic, high in sattva, and wonderfully rejuvenating, brahmi/gotu kola is a true super herb. It has been named “the herb of enlightenment” 1 and “the friend of the brain,” and it is considered one of the most important herbs in the Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia. Have we already said how much we love this herb?!

Is gotu kola the same as Bacopa monniera?

Some experts say that Bacopa monniera is more readily available in India and other parts of Asia than in the West. For this reason, gotu kola has often been substituted for Bacopa monniera—and thereby assumed the common name “brahmi” in the West.

Can Brahmi/gotu kola help you live longer?

Speaking of longevity, brahmi/gotu kola is often classified as a rasayana (rejuvenative herb) that works to slow the effects of aging. 12 Legend has it that Tai Chi Chuan master Li Ching-Yun lived to the age of 256 with the help of an herbal regimen that included brahmi/gotu kola. 13 Opening and Clarifying the Mind.

Where does banyan botanicals source our Brahmi/gotu kola?

Over the years, Banyan Botanicals has sourced our brahmi/gotu kola from Sri Lanka, India, and Zimbabwe, each of which possesses the warm, humid growing conditions that best help this remarkable plant thrive.

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What is another name for gotu kola?

Gotu kola (Centella asiatica) has been used to treat many conditions for thousands of years in India, China, and Indonesia. It was used to heal wounds, improve mental clarity, and treat skin conditions such as leprosy and psoriasis.

Is gotu kola and bacopa the same thing?

The Way of Ayurvedic Herbs “In India, Gotu Kola is often used interchangeably with another similar herb, Bacopa. Both are called Brahmi.

What is brahmi plant called in English?

Brahmi*, Indian pennywort, water hyssop, thyme-leafed gratiola, herb of grace. *In India, the common name “Brahmi” is also applied to a very different medicinal plant with similar medicinal properties, Centella asiatica, also known as “Gotu Kola”.

What is the English name for gotu kola?

Indian pennywortCentella asiatica, commonly known as gotu kola, kodavan, Indian pennywort and Asiatic pennywort, is a herbaceous, perennial plant in the flowering plant family Apiaceae.

What herb is similar to gotu kola?

Aloe.Arnica.Astragalus.Bilberry.Burdock.Calendula.Comfrey.Echinacea.More items...

Who should not take Bacopa?

Stay on the safe side and avoid use. Children: Bacopa is possibly safe when taken by mouth by children 6-12 years old for up to 6 months. Slow heart rate (bradycardia): Bacopa might slow down the heart rate. This could be a problem in people who already have a slow heart rate or other heart disease.

What are the side effects of Brahmi?

Brahmi has a few reported side effects, including nausea, increased stomach upset, and stomach motility. Therefore, it is essential to take precautions and immediately contact a doctor if any such side effects are observed. They will be the best person to provide you with proper treatment.

What is gotu kola good for?

Pegged as the “herb of longevity,” gotu kola is a staple in traditional Chinese, Indonesian, and Ayurvedic medicine. Practitioners claim the medicinal plant has the power to boost brainpower, heal skin issues, and promote liver and kidney health — and some studies seem to agree.

Can you take Bacopa and gotu kola together?

21–23 Gotu kola is extremely safe. Combination formulas combining bacopa and gotu kola, among many others, have also been studied for children and adolescents with ADHD.

Is Brahmi better than gotu kola?

However, other credible sources report that Bacopa monniera is referred to as “brahmi” in Northern India whereas gotu kola (Centella asiatica) is known as “brahmi” in Southern India (Banyan Botanicals, 2021). Fortunately, both of these herbs are highly beneficial and have very similar properties.

How does gotu kola affect the brain?

Gotu kola can improve mood and memory, protect the brain from toxins and free radical damage, and preserve mental sharpness. Consider gotu kola supplements or tea if you are looking for a cognitive enhancer that also helps reduce stress, anxiety, or insomnia.

What is gotu kola called in India?

BrahmiGotu Kola is an ancient Indian herb, used both for culinary and therapeutic purposes. It is known as Mandukaparni in Sanskrit. But it is also used in the name of Brahmi.

Can I take bacopa and gotu kola together?

While bacopa benefits many of the same areas that brahmi/gotu kola does, these two herbs can also be combined to further support the mind and nervous system.

What is another name for Bacopa monnieri?

brahmiBacopa monnieri, also called brahmi, water hyssop, thyme-leaved gratiola, and herb of grace, is a staple plant in traditional Ayurvedic medicine.

What is the Chinese name for gotu kola?

ji xue saoGotu kola is also known as marsh penny and Indian pennywort. In traditional Chinese medicine, it is referred to as ji xue sao and, in Ayurvedic medicine, as brahmi.

Is bacopa the same as Ashwagandha?

Bacopa works similarly to ashwagandha and gotu kola by improving synaptic communication. It enhances the growth and proliferation of dendrites—the branched nerve cell extensions along which neural impulses travel—enhancing neural signaling.

What is a Gotu Kola?

Gotu Kola in the Landscape. This small, water-loving creeper has slender stems and leaves that gently curl in, creating small conical shapes. In fact, “gotu kola” is Sinhalese for “cone leaf.” 2 This plant is not to be confused with its close friend, bacopa (with the botanical name of Bacopa monniera ).

What is the best herb for the brain?

In particular, gotu kola brings these actions to the brain, making it the perfect herb to support a healthy mind, and promote concentration, memory, and intelligence. 13 Gotu kola certainly lives up to its name as “the friend of the brain!”. It also lives up to its name as “the herb of enlightenment.”.

What is the name of Centella Asiatica?

To keep it clear in this blog, we are talking about Centella asiatica, and we will simply call it gotu kola. Are you curious about how two separate plants can end up with the same name? We have an article that clarifies the similarities and differences between these two brahmi plants.

Why is Gotu Kola used in hair products?

Gotu kola is commonly used in skin care regimes because it promotes a clear complexion and healthy skin, and it is frequently used in hair products to support the health of the scalp and thick lustrous hair.

What is the name of the leaf of Gotu Kola?

Taking a look at a gotu kola leaf, we can see how it may have inspired another of the plant’s common names. The Sanskrit name for gotu kola is mandukaparni, or “frog-leaved,” and not surprisingly, the leaves are reminiscent of the webbed feet of a frog. 3 Plus, like frogs, this low growing plant loves wet and boggy environments.

What is the best herb for enlightenment?

Tridoshic, high in sattva, and wonderfully rejuvenating, brahmi/gotu kola is a true super herb. It has been named “the herb of enlightenment” 1 and “the friend of the brain,” and it is considered one of the most important herbs in the Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia.

What is Brahmi in Sanskrit?

Gotu kola. Sinhalese for “conical shape”. Mandukaparni. Sanskrit for “frog-leaved ”. Tiger herb.

What is the plant that gives elephants their memory?

This many-named plant is popular throughout several cultures as a brain and focus supplement, with some having called it "the herb of enlightenment." 10 In Sri Lankan folklore, for instance, it is said that gotu kola is what gives elephants their celebrated capacity for memory and longevity. 11

What is the name of Centella Asiatica?

The names of these two herbs can vary between teachers and geographic regions. Centella asiatica is commonly referred to as brahmi in northern India, while the name is more frequently used to describe Bacopa monnieri in southern India. 3

What subdoshas does Brahmi work with?

Brahmi/gotu kola also works very directly with some of pitta’s subdoshas, including sadhaka pitta (which is closely related to the intellect and intelligence) and bhrajaka pitta (located in the skin).

Where does Gotu Kola come from?

Sri Lanka, where its name of “gotu kola” originated, has a very well-established tradition of growing this herb, which is used in one of the country’s most popular dishes—the gotu kola sambol. In India, we partner with Panchvati Organic Farm, a certified organic farm whose focus crop is brahmi/gotu kola.

What is the meaning of the word "brahmi"?

It translates as “energy of universal consciousness,” and speaks to the legendary effects on the mind and consciousness that both brahmi/gotu kola and bacopa possess. 2. The names of these two herbs can vary between teachers ...

What part of the body does a leaf resemble?

The leaves are also thought to resemble a cerebellum, representing one of the best examples of the "doctrine of signatures"—a school of thought which suggests that herbs have a special affinity for the part of the body that they resemble (in this case, the brain). 9. YouTube. Banyan Botanicals. 65.3K subscribers.

How to make a paste with water?

To make, mix a small amount of powder with water and mix until it has reached a paste-like consistency.

What is Bacopa Monniera good for?

Bacopa monniera is useful for rebuilding from fatigue, general weakness, and nervous exhaustion caused by excess vata dosha (Pole, 2013). In addition, like gotu kola, it supports sadhaka pitta (the pitta dosha of the mind). Also, similarly to gotu kola, bacopa is suitable for all three doshas. Yet, its energy is cool (though not as cool as gotu kola), so is best combined with warming herbs and spices when applied for vata imbalances.

What is a bacopa plant?

Bacopa is also a ground-cover type plant, similar to gotu kola, but with smaller, thicker leaves that even look a bit succulent, In addition, bacopa boasts small white five-petaled flowers when it blooms.

What is the name of the herb that supports memory?

There are a few different herbs that go by this name, the most commonly known are Bacopa monniera and Centella asiatica. Given that the name “brahmi” is applied to more than one herb, one may be left to wonder, “which is the real brahmi?” Is Bacopa monniera the true brahmi? Or is it gotu kola (Centella asiatica)? This post will compare two of the more widely used herbs that may go by the alias brahmi: bacopa (Bacopa monniera) and gotu kola (Centella asiatica). After reading this post, you will be left with a more clear understanding of bacopa vs gotu kola—where these two plant allies crossover, where they diverge, and why brahmi is an apt name for both.

What is the meaning of Brahmi?

It may also be translated as what gives knowledge of supreme reality (Dass, 2013; Frawley & Lad, 2001). In addition, brahmi is another name for Saraswati, the goddess of arts and letters (Dass, 2013), and is also related to universal, divine consciousness (Banyan Botanicals, 2021).

Is Gotu Kola better than Bacopa?

In searching for the true brahmi, it may be comforting to know that both of these herbs are wonderfully nourishing for the nervous system, support memory and healthy mental function, and perhaps both deserve to be called “brahmi.” Gotu kola is slightly more cooling than bacopa, so it is ideal for pitta dosha, but both herbs have an overall cooling effect and are suitable for all three doshas given the right formulation. Also, though both of these herbs act on the skin, gotu kola is more widely used for issues that pertain to the skin and hair. And, bacopa is a slightly more potent nervine. Yet, in the end, if you are looking for a plant ally that boosts memory and nourishes the nervous system and mind, there is no need to worry about which is the true brahmi—both bacopa and gotu kola are excellent choices.

Is bacopa a relaxant?

Conversely, gotu kola gently stimulates the appetite. Also, bacopa is useful as a relaxant for the entire nervous system. Thus, it may be taken for tense muscles, menstrual pain, and constipation (Pole, 2013).

Is Gotu Kola good for hair?

Furthermore, early hair graying and hair loss are associated with pitta dosha, and gotu kola is often used to support healthy hair and scalp. For this purpose, it can be taken internally as well as applied externally as a topical hair oil (Dass, 2013). Consider gently massaging gotu kola oil (often formulated in a base of coconut oil) into the scalp and soles of the feet at bedtime to support a calm, cool mind and healthy hair and scalp.

Is gotu kola and Brahmi the same thing?

Although gotu kola is referred to as “ brahmi ” by some, it is a separate herb called Centella asiatica, belonging to the carrot family of plants. Applied topically, gotu kola cream helps to regenerate collagen and inhibit scar formation.

What are the health benefits of gotu kola?

Keep reading to learn how gotu kola may help improve your overall health and well-being.

What is organic gotu kola?

Just Jaivik Organic Gotu Kola Powder (Centella asiatica) is one of the most popular herb from Indian Ayurveda. The leaves are highly sattvic (pure, harmonious) and historically have been eaten by yogis to assist in meditation. The herb is cooling and relaxing, making it an excellent tonic for summertime.

Does gotu kola raise blood pressure?

Gotu kola contains certain chemicals that seem to decrease inflammation and also decrease blood pressure in veins. Gotu kola also seems to increase collagen production, which is important for wound healing.

Is gotu kola good for hair growth?

It’s used to strengthen hair and promote hair growth. It’s also known to contain several antioxidants. Gotu kola (Centella asiatica): Gotu kola is one of the most popular Ayurvedic herbs. It’s thought to increase hair length and stimulate hair growth, possibly by increasing blood circulation to the scalp.

Does gotu kola give you energy?

Gotu kola has been used in traditional medicine systems to help improve brain function, alertness and mood . It leads to betterment of working memory and self-rated mood. Gotu Kola also helps in improving attention, reducing anxiety, and mental fatigue.

Is gotu kola good for skin?

Gotu kola is also known to repair veins on your skin. That’s because it can penetrate into the deep layers, and show its benefits. It is so effective that it is widely used as a treatment for varicose veins, and helps to break down cellulite by shrinking connective tissues that bind fat cells under the skin.

What is Brahmi used for?

Bacopa monnieri or Brahmi is a plant that belongs to family of snapdragons and is also known as water hyssop. Popularly used to treat Alzheimer’s disease, the plant is known to help induce calmness and is used to help ease nervous tension and stress. The plant is also noted for curbing restlessness and inducing a peaceful feeling.

What is Gotu Kola?

Gotu Kola Versus Bacopa – How They Compare. Gotu kola and Brahmi are well-known supplements that are used for the treatment of memory loss and Alzheimer’s disease. However, there has been confusion between the two since there are Herbalists that interchange them. Native to North America, both plants are also found in certain parts ...

Where are gotu kola and brahmi found?

However, there has been confusion between the two since there are Herbalists that interchange them. Native to North America, both plants are also found in certain parts of India where the stems get collected for medicinal purposes. While the use of gotu kola and brahmi can affect the central nervous system, it’s important to note ...

Why is Brahmi good for IBS?

Brahmi helps increase the production of mucus along the digestive tract which is also why it is used to treat IBS or irritable bowel syndrome and stomach ulcers.

Does Gotu Kola help with veins?

Among these include headache, drowsiness and burning skin irritation. Gotu kola may also provide such health benefits including supporting and enhancing vein functions . There is still very little evidence scientifically, however, to back up most of the claims that many manufacturers of the supplement have put out there.

Is Gotu Kola good for scars?

When applied as a topical solution, gotu kola cream is helpful in preventing the formation of scars as well as the regeneration of collagen. It is also useful in treating wounds , minor burns, scars, scleroderma, and even psoriasis.

Is Gotu Kola a carrot?

While there are herbalists that refer to gotu kola as brahmi, it’s important to understand that gotu kola is a different herb that belongs to the carrot family. Also known as Centella Asiatica, it has been known to be beneficial for memory loss. The herb is also used as treatment for venous insufficiency and varicose veins, ...

What is the name of the trial that modifies the echogenicity of femoral plaques after treatment with?

Incandela L, Belcaro G, Nicolaides AN, et al. Modification of the echogenicity of femoral plaques after treatment with total triterpenic fraction of Centella asiatica: a prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Angiology 2001;52 Suppl 2:S69-73. View abstract.

How long does gotu kola last?

There is some evidence that taking gotu kola for 3 months to 4 years, with or without maritime pine, might help stabilize these plaques so they are less likely to break off and trigger clot formation.

How long does it take for Gotu Kola to work?

Taking gotu kola or a specific extract of gotu kola (Centellase) by mouth for 4-8 weeks seems to improve blood circulation and reduce swelling in people with poor blood circulation in the legs. Skin damage caused by radiation therapy (radiation dermatitis).

What sedatives are used with Gotu Kola?

Some sedative medications include clonazepam (Klonopin), lorazepam (Ativan), phenobarbital (Donnatal), zolpidem (Ambien), and others. Moderate Interaction. Be cautious with this combination. Medications that can harm the liver (Hepatotoxic drugs) interacts with GOTU KOLA. Gotu kola might harm the liver.

What is Gotu Kola?

Gotu kola (Centella asiatica) is an herb in the parsley family. It has a long history of use in the traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine systems.

Why do people use Gotu Kola?

People use gotu kola for burns and poor circulation that can lead to varicose veins. It is also used for scars, stretch marks, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support most of these uses.

Is Gotu Kola safe for pregnant women?

Gotu kola may cause itchiness and redness. Special Precautions and Warnings. Pregnancy: Gotu kola is POSSIBLY SAFE for pregnant women when applied to the skin.