5 Skin and Hair Benefits of Brahmi

Bacopa monnieri, also known as Indian pennywort, water hyssop or brahmi, is a creeping herb that commonly grows in the wetlands throughout India, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, China, and Vietnam. It is also found in the southern United States. Brahmi is sometimes confused with Gotu kola (Centella asiatica), which is known by this name in some regions, but in this article we’ll be talking about India pennywort, “the original brahmi”.

The plant’s Hindu name is derived from the name of the Hindu god Brahma. Brahma is venerated as a creator god associated with great intellect, and the plant is believed to have been named in his honor because of its supposed ability to improve memory and brain function in general. As a skin and hair care product, brahmi is primarily valued for its antioxidant properties. What are its major beauty benefits?

Combats Free Radicals

As we’ve already mentioned above, brahmi has antioxidant properties, and antioxidants neutralize the harmful effects of free radicals that are considered one of the major reasons of aging. Face packs with brahmi powder or oil help smooth out fine lines and reduce deeper wrinkles, boost skin elasticity, and prevent dull complexion.

Prevents Inflammation and Speeds Up Healing

Brahmi has an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effect. When applied topically to pimples or minor skin injuries, brahmi juice or oil disinfects the skin, speeds up the healing process, and prevents scarring, leaving your with smooth and healthy skin. Brahmi is also believed to help with eczema and psoriasis, but if you have any kind of skin condition, you should consult a doctor before trying any home remedies.

Improves Complexion

Thanks to antioxidants, brahmi helps get rid of toxins and stimulates skin cell regeneration thus leaving you with healthy and glowing complexion. To improve your complexion, try this facial pack with brahmi powder. Mix 2 tsp of powdered brahmi with hot water into a paste. In a separate bowl, puree about 2 tsp of fresh papaya. Add the mashed papaya to the brahmi paste and mix together until well-blended. Papaya contains enzymes that brighten the skin and reduce pigmentation, while brahmi stimulates skin renewal.

Reduces Hair Loss

If you regularly massage your scalp with brahmi oil, it will improve microcirculation and strengthen hair follicles thus reducing hair loss and stimulating the growth of healthy hair. In addition, brahmi oil relieves itchy and flaky scalp as well as prevents dandruff. If you have oily scalp, you can use brahmi hair packs instead of oil: mix some powdered brahmi with warm water to get a moderately thick paste, apply it to your scalp and let it sit for about 15 minutes, than shampoo your hair thoroughly.

Prevents Hair Breakage

Brahmi strengthens hair shafts along the entire length and protects them from the environment, preventing hair breakage and split ends. If you have dry and brittle hair, try using brahmi oil or any kind of carrier oil mixed with brahmi powder at least once a week. In a relatively short time, you will notice your hair getting stronger and shinier.