What Is Brahmi: Learn About Brahmi Plant Care And Garden Uses
Brahmi is a plant that goes by many names. Its scientific name is Bacopa monnieri, and as such it is often referred to as "Bacopa" and frequently confused with a groundcover of the same name. Brahmi is an edible herb, and while it’s native to India, it has since spread to tropical regions all over the world. In fact you may already have heard about its restorative properties and its ability to calm nerves and aid in a peaceful night's sleep. Keep reading to learn more about brahmi care and uses.
Brahmi Plant Information
What is brahmi? It’s a low growing, creeping herb that reaches a maximum of about 6 inches (15 cm.) in height and grows outward in a sprawling pattern. If left to its own devices, it can spread rapidly. Brahmi plant care is pretty easy and forgiving. It prefers part to full sun and will grow in a wide range of soils. As long as it gets sufficient water, it can thrive in rock, sand, or mud. It will even grow directly in water features, forming its foliage as floating mats. Feed the plants moderately with slow release fertilizer. They’re not heavy feeders, but they do appreciate the nutrients. If you’re growing brahmi in water, however, don’t use any fertilizer, as this will just encourage algae growth.
What are the Benefits of Brahmi?
Brahmi has soft, hairy stems and bright green, oval, succulent leaves. Its flowers are small and white with yellow centers. It is completely edible and is very popular as a medicine when it is steeped into a tea, mixed with oil, or worked into a paste. So what are the benefits of brahmi? There is a huge list of ailments brahmi can be used to treat, from respiratory and stomach problems to memory loss to leprosy. It’s especially common in traditional Indian medicine. It’s also good for promoting general good health. Disclaimer: The contents of this article is for educational and gardening purposes only. Before using ANY herb or plant for medicinal purposes, please consult a physician or a medical herbalist for advice.
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The only child of a horticulturist and an English teacher, Liz Baessler was destined to become a gardening editor. She has been with Gardening Know how since 2015, and a Senior Editor since 2020. She holds a BA in English from Brandeis University and an MA in English from the University of Geneva, Switzerland. After years of gardening in containers and community garden plots, she finally has a backyard of her own, which she is systematically filling with vegetables and flowers.
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