Centella Asisatica (Brahmi): A Herbal Medicince Plant

It has been in use, as a medicinal herb, for thousands of years in India, China and Indonesia. Its ability to heal wounds, improve mental clarity, and treat skin conditions such as leprosy and psoriasis were important reasons for its extensive use in these countries. It has also been called one of the miracle elixirs of life. Historically, Centella asiatica has also been used to treat syphilis, hepatitis, stomach ulcers, mental fatigue, epilepsy, diarrhea, fever, and asthma. Today herbalists use Centella asiatica for disorders that cause connective tissue swelling, such as scleroderma, psoriatic arthritis (arthritis occurring in conjunction with psoriasis), anklylosing spondylitis (arthritis of the spine), and rheumatoid arthritis. Recent studies confirm some of the traditional uses and also suggest possible new applications for Centella asiatica, such as lowering high blood pressure, treating venous insufficiency (pooling of blood in the veins, usually in the legs, boosting memory and intelligence, easing anxiety, and speeding wound healing. These leaves are useful in abdominal disorders 1-4 due to dysentery in children. Charaka includes this drug in his Vayasthapana Varga, the group of drugs that are capable of maintaining the youthful vigour and strength, Mandooka Parni is also a Medhya drug, which improves the receptive and retensive capacity of the mind. Legend goes that the tigers used to rub themselves with the Tigers herb (Centella plant), in order to heal their scars. Centella has also been used traditionally as an anti-inflammatory, particularly for eczema, and also for minor itching and insect bites.