With today's hectic lifestyle, stress, anxiety, and mental exhaustion have become all too common. Sleep disorders are common among most people, leading to brain exhaustion, poor concentration, and ill health. Instead of relying on artificial sleep medication, natural ingredients like Brahmi can be a lifesaver. This potent herb with long-time Ayurvedic roots is well known for enhancing mental functions, reducing stress levels, and promoting healthy sleep.
What is Brahmi?
Brahmi is one of the best-known adaptogens, i.e., it helps the body stress less. The herb is often called a 'brain tonic' and is taken extensively to increase memory, concentrate better, and calm anxiety.
While Brahmi is primarily known for boosting cognitive function, its sleep-promoting effects are equally significant. It naturally calms the mind and thus falls asleep with ease, as well as sleeping for a longer period.
Benefits of Brahmi For Improving Sleep
1. Minimises Stress and Anxiety
Stress and anxiety are one of the prime reasons for sleep unrest. Brahmi possesses natural adaptogenic and anxiolytic effects, which lower cortisol levels (stress hormone). By calming the nervous system, it provides the best atmosphere for sound sleep.
2. Increases Neurotransmitter Activity
Brahmi helps produce serotonin, a neurotransmitter, which is crucial for mood and sleep. Higher serotonin levels cause relaxation and promote deep sleep cycles. Brahmi also maintains the level of dopamine, which is necessary for overall emotional balance.
3. Prevents Brain Fatigue
Continuous mental strain can cause brain exhaustion, which makes it hard to relax at the end of the day. Brahmi has potent antioxidants that eliminate oxidative stress in the brain, hence mental exhaustion. This action enables the mind to relax easily into a state of rest.
Also Read: Medicinal Health Benefits Of Drinking Brahmi Leaves Juice Every Morning
4. Maintains the Sleep-Wake Cycle
Brahmi may also help control the body's circadian rhythm so that the sleep-wake cycle is balanced. If you find it difficult to sleep at odd hours or suffer from insomnia, adding Brahmi to your regimen can help balance your natural sleep patterns.
5. Reduces Inflammation in the Brain
Chronic inflammation may disrupt brain function and sleep quality. Brahmi has bioactive compounds, such as bacosides that are anti-inflammatory, which can reduce nervous system inflammation. This enhances cognitive function and sleep.
How to Use Brahmi for Better Sleep
1. Brahmi Tea
Consuming Brahmi tea at night is an effective way to ensure relaxation and sleep. Steep Brahmi leaves or powder in hot water for a few minutes, and drink a soothing herbal tea.
2. Brahmi Supplements
You can consume Brahmi capsules or tablets daily as part of your evening routine. It's best to consult a healthcare practitioner to decide the proper dosage based on your requirements.
3. Brahmi Oil Massage
Using Brahmi oil on the scalp and gently massaging can soothe the nervous system, alleviate tension, and enhance sleep quality. A soft head massage at the time of going to bed stimulates circulation and induces relaxation.
4. Brahmi Powder with Warm Milk
Mixing a small amount of Brahmi powder in warm milk and consuming it before sleep can be an effective natural remedy for insomnia. The blend supports neurotransmitter function and relaxes the body.
Also Read: Know The Power Of Brahmi Herb In Keeping Mental Well-being
According to the StatPearls, traditional medicine and clinical trials use the following doses of Brahmi:
- Dried herb: 5-10 grams per day, divided into 2-3 doses
- Liquid extract: 10-20 mL per day, divided into 2-3 doses
- Capsule or tablet: 300-450 mg per day, standardised to contain 24-55% bacosides
- For children aged 6-12, a dose of 225 mg per day may be used for up to 6 months
Who Can Benefit From Brahmi?
- People suffering from anxiety and stress
- People with insomnia or disturbed sleep
- Students and working professionals who undergo mental fatigue
- Old-age people who want to improve cognitive function and sleep.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issue to avoid complications.]