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Brahmi Plus
Bacopa Monniera, more commonly known as
Brahmi, originates from traditional Ayurvedic
medicine. It is a creeping plant found in damp, marshy regions throughout India. Of all
Indian herbal therapies, Brahmi was, and still is, considered to be the premier herb for
treating brain problems and age-related mental decline as well as to improve cognitive
processes such as memory.
The practice of Ayurveda is holistic and classifies people into having one of three main
body types -- Vata, Pitta and Kapha. These help determine all aspects of the person from
physical stature to personality traits. Whilst most people possess qualities of each,
there is usually one body type that is predominant. In conjunction with this, Ayurveda
sees that different nutrients and foods exert different effects on people depending on
their body type. However, the herb Brahmi is exceptional as it is recognised as a
tridoshic balancing herb which means it is suitable for all body types. In particular,
Ayurvedic physicians found that the Vata dosha, which governs the nervous system, benefits
the most from the effects of Brahmi. It was through the success of these ancient medical
practices over three thousand years ago that Brahmi was established as a powerful nervine
and brain tonic.
HOW IT WORKS
Although Ayurvedic practitioners and their patients have known of Brahmi's benefits for
thousands of years, it was not until the Central Drug Institute of India was established
in 1951 that formal scientific studies determined exactly how this herb works. They
discovered that Brahmi contained two main active ingredients, Bacosides A and B. The
neurobiological effects of these isolated molecules were found to increase protein kinase
activity and new protein synthesis, specifically in cells in regions of the brain
associated with long term memory. They determined that this long-treasured herb had the
amazing ability to facilitate learning, memory and concentration by stimulating neural
activity.
WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM BRAHMI?
The effects of Brahmi can be of benefit to anyone wishing to stimulate their powers of
recall and concentration. Although Brahmi has shown to be helpful in treating ADD
(Attention Deficit Disorder), age-related mental deterioration and concentration
difficulties due to stress, it may be incredibly beneficial where there is no health
condition, but only the desire to improve cognitive function. An animal study in 1982
found that Brahmi improved the initial acquisition of learned information as well as
retention ability. The study also showed that Brahmi delayed the length of time it took
for the information to become extinct or 'unlearned'.
Brahmi is as eminently suited to a healthy, young student looking to maximize their
ability to focus and study, as to an elderly person hoping to regain their memory. It
enables people to optimize their intellectual potential and mental vitality for the
betterment of both personal and professional pursuits.
TAKING THE STRESS OUT OF STUDY AND WORK
Aside from increasing intellectual and cognitive function, Brahmi induces a sense of calm
and peace in its users. It is unique in its ability to invigorate mental processes whilst
reducing the effects of stress and nervous anxiety. This makes Brahmi extremely applicable
in highly stressful work or study environments where clarity of thought is as important as
being able to work under pressure. Many people have the intelligence to perform to strict
standards, but lack the composure and self-confidence to reach them. Additionally, Brahmi
helps soothe the restlessness and distraction that nervousness causes. Brahmi is ideal for
students and workers faced with this problem.
As a nervine tonic, Brahmi has been used to help those affected by stroke, nervous
breakdown or exhaustion and Attention Deficit Disorder. It may also be of value in
assisting those with epilepsy.
OTHER HEALTH BENEFITS
The potential healing benefits of Brahmi extend beyond just that of the brain. Traditional
Ayurvedic practitioners utilized the herb for a number of conditions. It was used as a
blood cleanser and to treat fevers, inflammations, joint pain and a variety of skin
problems such as eczema, psoriasis, boils and ulcers. Brahmi is also reputed to stimulate
hair, skin and nail growth.
A study conducted to evaluate the efficacy of Brahmi in the treatment of irritable bowel
syndrome (IBS) found the herb to exert beneficial effects, particularly on the form where
diarrhea was predominant. Clinical studies on healthy human volunteers have also shown
multiple doses of Bacosides to be well tolerated and devoid of any untoward reaction or
side-effects.
BRAHMI FORMULATIONS
This exceptional herb is often combined with the circulatory booster Ginkgo biloba and
choline-rich Lecithin. Like Brahmi, these nutrients have long been associated with the
brain. Although they have independent modes of action, they may work well synergistically
to improve cognitive function, particularly powers of memory and concentration.
The pace of life we lead has never been more demanding. We find ourselves constantly
juggling the demands of healthy living, family responsibilities and a competitive work
environment. Our ability to perform both mentally and physically is crucial in today's
competitive environment.
Some individuals find concentration easy and can maintain alertness while others have
great difficulty with this. That is why it is important that we learn to cope with this
environment.
Brahmi +™ has been formulated with you in mind. Brahmi +™ contains herbs which
can assist to calm nerves, improve stress adaptation, help reduce effects of mild anxiety
and nervous tension.
These active herbal components provide endurance and stamina. Brahmi +™ can assist by
providing the correct blend of nutrients and herbs that will protect against harmful free
radical damage. Brahmi +™ can protect and maintain the health of capillaries, thereby
assisting peripheral circulation.
SO WHAT'S IN OUR BRAHMI+ THAT
MAKES IT SPECIAL AND STAND OUT FROM THE REST
BACOPA MONNIERI (BRAHMI)
Bacopa Monnieri, also known as Brahmi, is the
foremost Ayurvedic herb that has been used for centuries as a nerve tonic (1). Brahmi has
been used as an Ayurvedic rejuvenative to assist in mental activity, brain function and
nervous exhaustion. It also assists in alleviating nervous exhaustion. The benefits of
Brahmi are mentioned in ancient Ayurvedic texts and it is reported that this remarkable
herb was used by scholars and students to help them memorise lengthy ancient Vedic hymns.
Modern research shows that the herb contains steroidal saponins such as bacosides A and B
which have been shown in studies to improve memory and learning capacities (2.3). Brahmi
also has a well established tradition in the treatment of asthma, anxiety and epilepsy.
The scientific validation of Brahmi, based on
extensive clinical and experimental data, that learning and memory are closely associated
with the functional status of the central cholinergic system is now widely accepted.
According to this model, Brahmi was evaluated in the presence of substances known to have
cholinotoxic effects associated with cognitive deficits. The results, recently published
in an Italian journal, Fitoterapia (Vol. LXVI, No.3, pp. 216-222, 1995), indicate that
Brahmi actively promotes cholinergic recovery, thereby facilitating central cholinergic
mechanisms. This confirms Brahmi’s effectiveness in promoting mental alertness.
PANAX GINSENG (KOREAN)
This herb is highly regarded in Chinese
herbal medicine. It has traditionally been used for generations to promote health and
vitality. The major active agents found in the ginseng root are the ginsenosides,
saponins, glycans and essential oils. Research has shown that oral doses of ginseng
improved learning, memory, sound and spatial discrimination (4). It is understood that its
ability to stimulate acetylcholine, a brain neurotransmitter (5). Human studies have shown
that ginseng can improve competence, mood and performance of nurses on night duty (6).
A double blind cross over trial confirmed
that ginseng improved performance university students to do mental arithmetic (7). In
another study, the benefits of ginseng on elderly patients were experienced within one
week of its use. Improvements in intellectual output, memory and slow thinking were
immediately evident with considerable improvements noted after 2 months (8).
PERIWINKLE (VINCA MAJOR) SEED
Periwinkle is an evergreen, vine-like plant.
The periwinkles or vincas have had a long history of use as a traditional tonic as well as
an astringent for skin conditions. There are many active ingredients in the vinca major
plant, and in recent years, there has been mounting scientific research showing the
importance of two primary extracts – vincamine and vinpocetine. Vinepocetine is a
derivative of the alkaloid vincamine and is found in small amounts in the seeds of the
periwinkle plant. Vinpocetine reportedly increases blood flow to the brain (9) and
increases brain cell energy through its effect on ATP production (the molecule that
creates energy) (10) as well as increasing the brains ability to function through more
efficient use of glucose (11) and oxygen (12). Brain hypoxia (reduced oxygen levels) is
known to lead to amnesia and forgetfulness. In studies using vinpocetine, researchers
found that brain glucose utilisation was more efficient and blood flow to the brain was
increased even when there was decreased circulation and oxygen supply (13).
GINKGO BILOBA LEAF
Extracts from the leaves of the Ginkgo Biloba
tree have been used for centuries by Chinese physicians. Research on Ginkgo is now
revealing the scientific basis of this beneficial herb (14,15,16) and it is now one of the
most widely used herbs in Europe. The constituents ginkgolides, only found in ginkgo, have
been extensively studied and have demonstrated remarkable pharmacological effects
including membrane stabilization, antioxidant and free radical scavenger activity. Other
known benefits of ginkgo include improved blood circulation in the body. Ginkgo works by
increasing blood and oxygen supply to the brain and other parts of the body. Many
scientific studies involving human subjects have now shown that Gingko improves mental
function, memory and alertness (17,18,19).
It promotes efficient circulation by helping
maintain the tone and elasticity of large and small blood vessels. It also protects
against retinal ischemia and enhances the opthalmoloical activity of bilberry (20).
PORIA COCOS ROOT
Also known as Hoelen, this herb has been used
for centuries as a premiere tonic to restore and refresh the body. It is one of the active
herbal constituents of the Chinese Herbal formula DX9386, which is traditionally used to
support memory and learning (21).
ELEUTHEROCOCCUS SENTICOSUS
Eleutherococcus, also known as Siberian
Ginseng is an ideal herb, which is known to facilitate resistance of an organism to
physical, chemical and biological stresses. Studies in humans have shown that mental and
physical output are increased by its use (22).
PIPER NIGRUM (BLACK PEPPER) FRUIT
Derived from Black pepper fruits Piper Nigrum
is classed as a "thermonutrient"". It is cultivated in the damp, nutrient
rich soil regions of southern India and is known to improve bioavailability of nutrients.
The pepper fruits are hand harvested just prior to ripening and sun dried for optimum
maturity and quality. The use of this extract may assist thermogenesis – the
metabolic process that generates activity at the cellular level in our body. Thermogenesis
enables the proper nutrient uptake from the food we eat. Further studies have shown the
improvement in bioavailability of certain vitamins and a variety of nutrients when piper
nigrum is added.
SCHISANDRA CHINENSIS
Schisandra has been used in traditional
Chinese medicine to improve mental, physical and sensory performance. The active
constituents consist of a large number of lignans known as schizandrins and gomisins.
Others include triterpenic acids, triterpenic lactones, essential oil, citric acid and
vitamins C and E. Amongst its many benefits, clinical trials have now shown that
schisandra improves mental efficiency, sensitivity of sight And hearing, increases the
speed of adaptation to the dark, enlarges the visual field and increases the
discrimination of skin receptors (16). The lignans have been shown to improve activities
requiring concentration and fine co-ordination in humans. Animal studies have shown that
schisandra exhibits antidepressant activity (23).
CANTELLA ASIATICA
Also known as gotu kola, centalla is a
herbaceous perennial plant native to India, China Indonesia and Africa. Centella has been
used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries as well as by the people of Java and other
islands of Indonesia. The medicinal use has centered around its ability to heal wounds and
treat skin conditions like leprosy. In China, the plant has been used to treat boils and
fevers as well as to delay senescence. Its reputation as a promoter of longevity stems
from the Chinese herbalist Li Chung Yun, who was supposed to have lived to the age of 256
years due to the regular use of a herbal mixture based on centella. The active components
of centella have mild tranquilising, anti-stress and anti-anxiety actions (24).
LECITHIN
A yellow-brown fatty substance of the group
called phospholipids composed of units of choline, phosphoric acid, fatty acids and
glycerol. Phospholipids are the major components of cell membranes and they act as
gate-keepers with important roles in maintaining cell permeability, controlling enzyme
activity in the membrane and transporting fat through the intestine and the liver.
Lecithin supplies choline to make acetylcholine, an important neurotransmitter in brain
chemistry, which is required for learning, memory and mental alertness. It is particularly
useful with memory problems associated with the aged (25). Phophatidylserine is derived
from lecithin and concentrates in the brain to improve its functionality.
GLUTAMINE
Glutamine is one of the most abundant amino
acids present in the Cerebrospinal Fluid and is a major component in the synthesis of
neurotransmitters. It is the precursor of glutamic acid, which provides energy to the
brain. Glutamine plays a significant role in muscle metabolism, the healthy functioning of
the gastrointestinal tract and serves the brain by neutralising excess ammonia thus
creating a clearer space for brain activity (26).
THIAMINE HYDROCHLORIDE, RIBOFLAVIN, NICOTINIC
ACID, PYRIDOXAL 5-PHOSPHATE
All the B group vitamins are water-soluble
and are responsible for converting carbohydrates into glucose thereby providing the body
with energy. B Vitamins are intimately involved in the metabolism of all nerve and brain
cells. B1, B2, B3, B6 stimulate the glucose energy cycle. Individuals consuming a diet
high in refined or processed foods will have an increased requirement for these nutrients.
Nicotinic acid is also essential for the production of the brain’s chemical
messengers called neurotransmitters.
Pyridoxal-5-phosphate is the active form of
vitamin B6 and therefore is ready to be fully utilized by the body. It is required for the
breakdown of glycogen, the metabolism of fatty acids and amino acids as well as the
synthesis of hemoglobin. It is also required in the formation of two regulatory compounds
in brain activity, serotonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).
FOLIC ACID AND CYANOCOBALAMIN (B12)
These important B vitamins are required for
the synthesis of DNA. Folic acid is required for the conversion of a toxic by-product of
ordinary protein metabolism to a beneficial amino acid (that is homocysteine to
methionine).
ZINC
This is an important trace mineral and next
to iron is the most concentrated mineral in the body. It is present in most body organs
and is vital to the activity of a large range of cell enzyme systems and physical
processes. Animal studies have shown that deficiencies in this trace mineral may cause
concentration and memory deficits (27).
RECOMMENDED USE
Everyone of us, in the course of our daily lives, faces stress. Busy lives, work
commitments or study, and the pressures of learning to combine work, relationship and
family are likely to keep us in fight or flight mode. Unfortunately, our stresses
are not easily confronted or escaped.
Environmental, economic and social stress can have adverse effects on our health.
Prolonged stress may affect our ability to learn and retain information. Stress also
lowers blood sugar, particularly blood sugar to the brain.
The brain uses more than 20% of the body's blood sugar while at rest and more when engaged
in mental activity. When the body is overworked, it needs to repair itself. proper
nutrition and diet are key factors. Exercise and relaxation are also essential.
Brahmi +™ has been formulated to assist you to deal with today's demanding
lifestyles. Brahmi +™ contains the right blend of herbs and nutrients to assist in
the maintenance of general well being.
Brahmi +™ should be taken for at least 3 months to receive the optimum advantages.
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