Benefits of Brahmi Leaves
#MyGreenGarden

Having Brahmi around the house is an age old tradition in my home. The importance of the leaves struck me all the more only when I became a mother. I am sure all you mothers will agree that if there is anything we can do to protect our children then we will go any lengths to achieve it. Well, in this case there were no realms I had to transpire, but to find a small piece of this creeping herb and pot it. Viola! In a few weeks I had them growing really fast and clambering onto my other pots as well. Notice, that the first one is hybrid and has bigger leaves, while the second one is a local variety and has smaller leaves, although both are equally nutrient-rich.
Brahmi/ Gotu Kola, scientifically known as Bacopa monnieri is a creeping herb that is good to have in the house. This is a fast growing; easy maintenance, powerful herb that is filled with memory boosting and stress busting capabilities. Studies have shown that the active components in Brahmi have very positive effects in maintaining brain health. It is regarded as a mental tonic that increases memory power, focuses concentration and improves mental alertness. (All of which are very important for growing children) If you look at the shape of the leaf it resembles the cerebellum of the brain, which is responsible for concentration and memory. By decreasing the levels of cortisol (the stress hormone), Brahmi is believed to elevate mood. It is also said that Brahmi has antioxidant properties and encourages liver functions.
A caveat, however, is that the leaves are highly absorbent and is best grown where there are chances of lesser pollution. Therefore it is safer to monitor the leaves by growing them yourself at home than picking them up from stores.
As kids, I remember my granny giving us these leaves to eat and when we were unwilling to mouth it, she used to tell us to imitate a cow (her idea of a joke) and we obediently did. To be honest convincing kids these day to eat some ‘mysterious’ leaves is a story for another day altogether! When cajoling and threatening will not work, I would suggest you to use your mummy powers to get kids eat the leaves by hook or crook. Meanwhile I have a simple South Karnataka recipe to help you out:
Brahmi Thambuli
1. Clean and chop Brahmi leaves coarsely.
2. Add grated coconut, Brahmi leaves in a mixer and add water to make it a smooth paste.
3. After transferring it to a bowl, add beaten curd, water and salt.
4. Temper it with oil, mustard seeds and red chilies.
5. Best eaten with hot rice.