Brahmi Herb (Bacopa) – 100 g ($12.99), 50 g ($8.99), 25 g ($5.99)
Benefits:
Nutrients
Various phytochemical studies have shown that the main chemical constituents of brahmi are alkaloids brahmine, herpestine, nicotine, saponin, monierin, hersaponin. Bacosides include A1, A2, A3, and B, bacogenins A1 to A4, steroids triterpene, and bacosine. In addition to Bacopa saponins A–F, three new triterpenoid glycosides and bacopasides III–V have also been identified. Saponins are the main active constituents of brahmi and are responsible for most of its pharmacological actions.
The active ingredients of extract of Bacopa monnieri are listed below.
Composition
Compound groups Compound Types
Saponins Bacoside A, bacoside B, bacopasaponins, D-mannitol, acid A, monnierin
Flavonoids Apigenin, luteonin
Alkaloids Brahmine, herpestine, hydrocotyline
Glycosides Asiaticoside, thanakunicide
Phytochemicals Betulinic acid, betulic acid, wogonin, oroxindin, stigmastarol, β-sitosterol
Sapogenin Jujubacogenin, pseudojujubacogenin
Other constituents Brahmic acid, brahamoside, brahminoside, isobrahmic acid
Amount/100 g
Moisture 88.4 g
Protein 2.1 g
Fat 0.6 g
Carbohydrates 5.9 g
Crude fiber 1.05 g
Ash 1.9 g
Calcium 202 mg
Phosphorus 16 mg
Ascorbic acid (Vit. C) 63 mg
Nicotinic acid 0.3 mg
Iron 7.8 mg
Energy 38 cal.
In general, brahmi is well tolerated by most people. While brahmi has its own uses and benefits, the most common side effect seen in some people is gastrointestinal distress. The main symptoms of gastrointestinal distress include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
The health benefits of Brahmi, an ancient herb steeped in the rich tradition of Ayurvedic medicine, have been known for centuries. This unassuming plant, scientifically known as Bacopa monnieri, is well-known for its ability to enhance cognitive function, alleviate stress, and promote overall well-being. Its Ayurvedic name ‘Brahmi’ comes from Brahma, the creator God of the Hindu pantheon. With the scientific name of Bacopa monnieri, this creeping, perennial herb was first mentioned in the 6th century A.D. in texts like the Charaka Samhita, Atharva-Veda, and Susrut Samhita. It is classified as a medhya rasayana herb, used to enhance intellect and alleviate cognitive impairments. Ancient Vedic scholars reportedly utilized the herb to help memorize extensive sacred hymns and texts. Many people chew 2-3 leaves daily as a general tonic, similar to taking a vitamin supplement. Join us in exploring its amazing health benefits.
Antioxidants Antioxidants are substances that help protect against cell damage caused by potentially harmful molecules called free radicals. Brahmi contains potent antioxidants, particularly bacosides, which neutralize free radicals and prevent lipid peroxidation. This helps protect against cell damage, reducing the risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. They also help reduce oxidative stress in the brain, which is linked to neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
For example, bacosides, the main active compounds in Bacopa monnieri, have been shown to neutralize free radicals and prevent fat molecules from reacting with free radicals (4). When fat molecules react with free radicals, they undergo a process called lipid peroxidation. Lipid peroxidation is linked to several conditions, such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and other neurodegenerative disorders (5, 6). Bacopa monnieri may help prevent damage caused by this process.
For example, an older study showed that treating rats (with dementia) with Bacopa monnieri reduced free radical damage and reversed signs of memory impairment (7). More studies in humans are needed to better understand these effects on neurodegenerative disease. A systematic review of 5 randomized controlled trials found no benefit of this herb in the treatment of Alzheimer’s, though the authors did note that the studies were of small sample sizes (8, 9).
Inflammation Inflammation is your body’s natural response to help heal and fight disease. However, chronic, low-level inflammation has been linked to many chronic conditions, including cancer, diabetes, and heart and kidney disease (10). Brahmi possesses anti-inflammatory properties that suppress the release of cytokines and inhibit enzymes responsible for inflammation. This action is similar to that of NSAIDs like diclofenac and indomethacin, making Brahmi effective in preventing chronic inflammation associated with conditions like diabetes, cancers, and heart diseases.
In test-tube studies, Bacopa monnieri appeared to suppress the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are molecules that stimulate an inflammatory immune response (11). In test-tube and animal studies, it inhibited enzymes, such as cyclooxygenases, caspases, and lipoxygenases — all of which play key roles in inflammation and pain (11, 12).
Bacopa monnieri had anti-inflammatory effects comparable to those of diclofenac and indomethacin — two nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs commonly used to treat inflammation (12, 13). More research is needed to determine how bacopa monnieri reduces inflammation in humans.
A brahmi paste can be applied to inflamed areas to relieve pain and inflammation. The paste is also sometimes applied in cases of poisoning. More research is needed to determine how bacopa monnieri reduces inflammation in humans.
Brain What if we told you there was a plant used to treat memory and brain-related disorders for thousands of years — a plant thought to be so beneficial to the mind that it’s been a staple of traditional Ayurvedic medicine in India for thousands of years? Bacopa is the herb that checks off both boxes and many others. Also known as brahmi, bacopa is used to treat a broad range of mind-related health concerns, including Alzheimer’s disease, memory loss, anxiety, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms, epilepsy and as a general tonic to fight stress. Best of all, it has far fewer severe side effects than the dangerous psychotropic drugs often prescribed today. People also take the nootropic (Cognitive enhancer – memory, alertness, focus, performance) bacopa to improve their mental strength.
Brahmi is a brain tonic that enhances cognitive function by improving memory, concentration, and information processing. The bacosides in Brahmi stimulate the production of neurotransmitters like acetylcholine, crucial for learning and memory. Studies indicate that Brahmi supplementation can improve spatial learning in children and visual processing in adults, while also aiding in the treatment of Alzheimer’s and dementia. Brahmi’s anti-inflammatory properties may also contribute to its cognitive benefits. Brahmi enhances cognitive function and improves intelligence by boosting memory, concentration, and learning abilities. It stimulates the brain and supports the production of neurotransmitters essential for cognitive processes.
Bacopa monnieri has been used by Ayurvedic medical practitioners for centuries for a variety of purposes, including improving memory, reducing anxiety, and treating epilepsy (2). Research shows a boost in brain function and that it alleviates anxiety and stress, among other benefits.
Older studies suggests that Bacopa monnieri may help enhance brain function. For example, one study in mice showed that supplementing with Bacopa monnieri improved their spatial learning and ability to retain information (14). The same study also found that it increased dendritic length and branching. Dendrites are parts of nerve cells in the brain that are closely linked to learning and memory (14). A 12-week study in 46 healthy adults observed that taking 300 mg of Bacopa monnieri daily significantly improved the speed of processing visual information, learning rate, and memory, compared with the placebo treatment (15). Another 12-week study in 60 older adults found that taking either 300 mg or 600 mg of Bacopa monnieri daily improved memory, attention, and the ability to process information, compared with the placebo treatment (16).
A small, double-blind, 12-week study conducted at the Neuropsychology Laboratory at the School of Biophysical Science and Electrical Engineering in Australia had volunteers take 300 milligrams of bacopa daily while other volunteers received a placebo. Prior to the study commencing, researchers tested all volunteers on visual information processing, memory and speed of information processing. The tests were repeated five and 12 weeks after the study began. A significant improvement among the volunteers in the bacopa group was found compared to those in the placebo group, leading researchers to conclude that it “may improve higher order cognitive processes that are critically dependent on the input of information from our environment such as learning and memory.”
Alzheimer’s Disease, Dementia Alzheimer’s disease is a brain disorder that progressively causes memory loss, dementia and early mortality. Natural Alzheimer’s treatment can include supplementation with bacopa. According to the Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation, it holds promise for preventing the dementia (decline in mental ability severe enough to affect daily life) associated with Alzheimer’s.
No high-quality human studies have been conducted, but the animal research shows great results so far. For example, several animal studies have found that bacopa improves cognition, reduces oxidative stress and may protect the brain from Alzheimer’s- and dementia-related symptoms. While the bacosides that provide neuroprotective properties are thought to help with these cognitive diseases, more reliable, better-focused studies are needed to confirm effectiveness.
Epilepsy Seizures occur in the body when your brain cells, which communicate through electrical signals, send out the wrong signals. Generally, several seizures are needed before there is a diagnosis of epilepsy. While little human research has been done, there is a lot of animal research that suggests bacopa may be a natural epilepsy treatment. These research studies find that treatment with bacopa regulates gene expression, helps correct faulty reception of brain cells and helps increase GABA responses. All of these results are a good sign that the cognitive impairment and seizure activity caused by epilepsy could be relieved with bacopa. It is an anti-convulsant and also helpful in cases of mania.
Schizophrenia Bacopa is one supplement in a long list of hopeful treatments to reduce symptoms of schizophrenia, although no human research has yet been completed. Animal studies show it may be able to protect against the cognitive impairments frequently seen in schizophrenia.
ADHD Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is characterized by symptoms like hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattentiveness (17). Research has shown that Bacopa monnieri may reduce ADHD symptoms.
One study in 31 children aged 6–12 years found that taking 225 mg of Bacopa monnieri extract daily for 6 months significantly reduced ADHD symptoms, such as restlessness, poor self-control, inattention, and impulsivity in 85% of the children (18). A more recent study of 112 males aged 6-14 years with ADHD found cognitive, mood, and sleep benefits among those taking Bacopa monnieri, but saw no effect on behavioral outcomes (19). Although some findings are promising, more large-scale studies examining the effects of Bacopa monnieri on ADHD are needed before it can be recommended as a treatment.
The bacosides in bacopa monnieri are said to sharpen cognitive function by improving transmission of nerve impulses, which makes it promising for the treatment of ADHD. ADHD often begins in childhood and is a chronic condition that involves attention difficulty, hyperactivity and impulsiveness. In a 12-week, double-blind, randomized clinical trial, children with ADHD who took 50 milligrams twice a day showed significant improvement over children receiving a placebo in tests of mental control, logical memory and paired associated learning. Evaluation of study subjects did not occur until four weeks after stopping bacopa usage, indicating that the supplementation had a lasting effect. Another study published in 2022 conducted on boys aged 6–14 who exhibited inattention and hyperactivity revealed that “may have cognitive, mood and sleep benefits in children aged 6 to 14 years” though cautioned that “further study is required to support the findings presented here.”
Overall, it makes sense why it would be helpful for the symptoms of ADHD. Bacopa creates a sense of calm and peace, which is very helpful for the hyperactive and impulsive tendencies of those with ADHD. It also has a unique ability to invigorate mental processes while reducing the effects of stress and nervous anxiety, which is a perfect combination for an ADHD sufferer’s attention difficulties.
Bacopa Compared to Adderall Adderall is a form of amphetamine legally used in a limited number of countries, primarily the U.S. and Canada, for the treatment of ADHD, narcolepsy and depression. It’s a common drug to treat ADHD, but it comes with some unhealthy side effects that are much more dangerous and common than those of bacopa.
Here’s how the two stack up:
Bacopa Advantages
- Not addictive.
- Improves memory and cognitive function.
- Shown to improve anxiety and depression.
- Shown to support focus, attention, learning and memory.
- Shown to enhance brain communication.
- Positively regulates dopamine and serotonin.
Bacopa Disadvantages
- Can cause upset stomach if taken without food.
- For cognitive benefits it can take time to work — studies show improvements are much better at eight to 12 weeks than they are at four to six weeks.
- Its powder form has a very bitter taste.
Adderall Advantages
- When used short term, Adderall can have the positive effect of counteracting symptoms of ADHD by increasing availability of certain neurotransmitters, like norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, which boosts alertness, attention and energy levels.
- Increases the heart rate and flow of blood to the muscles, making the user feel more energized.
- Can cause feelings of energy and invigoration.
- Can also create rewarding feelings of euphoria, but this has led to it becoming popular as a recreational drug.
Adderall Disadvantages
- Adderall can be highly addictive and dangerous to those who abuse it
- Even when taken as prescribed, Adderall can have several negative effects in the short term, including:
- Appetite suppression and unhealthy weight loss.
- Irritability.
- Trouble sleeping.
- Feelings of restlessness.
- Potentially dangerous cardiac issues.
Bacopa has been a star of traditional Ayurvedic healing for centuries. Modern-day research continues to confirm bacopa’s abilities to improve and positively change not just mental abilities like memory and learning, but also mental health like depression and anxiety.
ADHD is on the rise globally and so is the use of conventional treatment like the drug Adderall, but bacopa is a natural substance that has the potential to significantly help ADHD without all of the scary side effects of conventional treatment. If you think that you or someone you know could benefit from bacopa, it’s worth considering this water plant for its incredible medicinal abilities.
Don’t forget, in addition to treating ADHD, bacopa is an adaptogenic stress reducer, anti-anxiety and antidepressant agent, memory enhancer, potential Alzheimer’s disease and dementia treatment, epilepsy treatment, chronic pain minimizer, and blood pressure regulator — making it a safe, healthy alternative to potentially remedy and/or prevent a host of health issues.
Anxiety, Stress Bacopa monnieri may help prevent anxiety and stress. It’s considered an adaptogenic herb, meaning that it increases your body’s resistance to stress (20). Research suggests that bacopa monnieri helps reduce stress and anxiety by elevating your mood and reducing levels of cortisol, a hormone that is closely linked to stress levels (21).
One rodent study showed that bacopa monnieri had anti-anxiety effects comparable to those of lorazepam (benzodiazepine), a prescription medication used to treat anxiety (22).
However, human studies on bacopa monnieri and anxiety show mixed results. For example, two 12-week human studies found that taking 300 mg of bacopa monnieri daily significantly reduced anxiety and depression scores in adults, compared with the placebo treatment (1, 15). A more recent human study found taking 500 mg bacopa monnieri twice daily for 4 weeks reduced depression, anxiety and stress (23). Yet another human study found that treatment with bacopa monnieri had no effect on anxiety (24). More large-scale human studies are needed to confirm its effects on stress and anxiety. It’s probably not too surprising that just as it reduces stress, this beneficial plant also potentially can reduce anxiety and depression symptoms.
Animal research published by the University of Michigan Health System showed the positive brain effects of bacopa, including reduction of both depression and anxiety. These very positive effects on the nervous system have biochemically been attributed to an enhancement of the effects of the neurotransmitters acetylcholine and, possibly, serotonin or GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). Recent research on humans confirmed these effects, as did a 2021 analysis published in Science Reports. It’s been estimated that up to 90 percent of all visits to primary care physicians are for stress-related complaints — 90 percent! Hard to believe, but true.
Stress, especially chronic stress, does terrible things to our minds and bodies, and general stress reduction should always be a top priority for anyone trying to live a healthy lifestyle.
Bacopa extract has actually been shown to work as a natural stress reliever by helping our bodies better handle or adapt to our daily stressors. An animal study conducted at the Central Drug Research Institute in India showed that a standardized extract of Bacopa monnieri successfully guarded against acute and chronic stress. More specifically, it reduced damaging stomach ulcer and adrenal activity. The study concluded that bacopa possesses a potent adaptogenic activity. That’s why it’s sometimes described as a “calming cognitive enhancer”.
Brahmi is recognized for its adaptogenic properties, which help reduce anxiety and stress. It elevates mood by stimulating neurotransmitters in the brain and lowering cortisol levels, thereby alleviating symptoms of anxiety and promoting a balanced mental state. Studies have shown that regular intake significantly reduces stress, anxiety, and depression levels in adults.
Chronic Pain Minimizer According to the Wall Street Journal, chronic pain is a huge health concern and health cost around the world today. Sadly, up to 85 percent of people with chronic pain also suffer from depression.
A review published in Current Medicinal Chemistry showed that Bacopa monnieri not only has strong antidepressant effects, but it has pain-reducing capabilities comparable to morphine. The study also indicated that this herbal treatment offers protective benefits for organs commonly affected by opiate toxicity, like the brain, kidneys and heart. Researchers concluded, “Bacopa is a safe and well-tolerated herbal therapy for pain management in multiple clinical trials including various age groups.”
It’s pain-relieving properties can help treat backache, joint and muscle pain and many others.
Blood Pressure High blood pressure is a serious health concern, as it places strain on your heart and blood vessels. This can weaken your heart and increase your risk of heart disease (25, 26). Research suggests that Bacopa monnieri may help keep blood pressure within a healthy range.
In one animal study, Bacopa monnieri reduced both systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels. It did this by releasing nitric oxide, which helps dilate blood vessels, resulting in improved blood flow and lower blood pressure (27, 28).
A 2020 study of 69 participants on high blood pressure medication found an herbal supplement which included Bacopa monnieri among other herbs lowered blood pressure and increased nitric oxide levels (29). However, one older 12-week study in 54 healthy older adults found that taking 300 mg of Bacopa monnieri daily had no effect on blood pressure levels (30). Based on current findings, Bacopa monnieri may lower blood pressure in animals with high blood pressure levels. Nevertheless, more human research is required to confirm these effects.
Animal studies have shown that bacopa might increase the body’s utilization of nitric oxide and encourage vascular muscle function, two benefits that positively influence normal blood pressure. The Journal of Ethnopharmacology study concludes that, according to research studies, some Bacopa monnieri ingredients could be effective at naturally lowering blood pressure.
Anti-Cancer Test-tube and animal studies found that bacopa monnieri may have anticancer properties. Bacosides, the active class of compounds in bacopa monnieri, have been shown to kill aggressive brain tumour cells and inhibit the growth of breast, brain, and colon cancer cells in test-tube studies (31, 32, 33). Additionally, bacopa monnieri induced breast cancer cell death in animal and test-tube studies (34). Research suggests that the high levels of antioxidants and compounds like bacosides in bacopa monnieri may be responsible for its cancer-fighting properties (35).
Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) plant has effective anti-cancer effect. Naturally occurring chemical components of bacopa monnieri leaves have demonstrated strong anti-metastatic (Spread of cancer cells to other parts of the body), anti-angiogenic (stop growth of new blood vessels in tumours), and anti-proliferative (slows cell growth, especially malignant cells) effects on various cancer cell types. It has been established that bacopa monnieri contains several active secondary metabolites that can function as anticancer agents against a variety of cancer types, including colon, breast, liver, prostate, and neurological malignancies.
Insomnia: Brahmi’s coolant action helps promote good quality sleep by reducing stress and hyperactivity. Regular consumption of Brahmi can aid in managing insomnia and improving overall sleep quality, thereby enhancing mental and physical well-being.(36)
Hair: Brahmi promotes hair growth and improves the quality of hair strands by addressing issues like dry scalp, hair fall, split ends, and dandruff. Its anti-inflammatory properties also help in preventing scalp conditions.
Diabetes: While detailed human studies are lacking, Brahmi’s antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties may help in managing diabetes by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation associated with the condition.
Wound Healing: There is limited direct evidence on Brahmi’s wound healing properties, but its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions could potentially aid in the healing process by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation at wound sites.
Analgesic & Antipyretic: While not extensively studied, Brahmi’s traditional use suggests potential analgesic (pain relieving) and antipyretic (fever relieving) properties, which could help in managing pain and reducing fever.
Asthma: Brahmi’s anti-inflammatory properties might help reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract, potentially offering some benefits for asthmatic patients.
Arthritis: Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints that can impact one or multiple joints. The most common types are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, with the latter being more prevalent. Brahmi extract shows promise in treating this condition and alleviating arthritic symptoms.
Botanical Name: Bacopa monnier
English: Bacopa, Water hyssop
Ayurvedic: Nirbraahmi, Darduradalaa, Shaaluraparni
Also, known as: Bhaarati, Matsyaakshaka, Mandukaparni, Pıramivazhukkai, Neerbrami, Safed-chammi, Jalaneem, Neerbrahmi, Manduka parnı, Nirubrahmi, Bhahmi, Zalnam, Biramı, Brahmibuti, Nirabrahmi, Sambarenu, Sambrani, Brahmi, Indian Pennywort, Thyme leaved gratiola, Herb of Grace, Aindri
Origin: India
Harvested: Wild
Parts Used: Whole Plant
General Information:
Bacopa monnieri is non-aromatic, small annual herb plant, found throughout India in wet and damp places. Brahmi consist of dried whole plant of Bacopa monnieri. The roots of this plant are thin, small, wiry, and light yellow branched. Stems are thin, green, or purplish green, and about 2 mm thick, and soft. The leaves of the plant are simple, opposite, green, 1-2 cm long obovate-oblong. They are slightly bitter in taste. The flowers are small, white in color with 4-5 petals. It has the ability to grow in water makes it a popular aquarium plant. Brahmi has been used in traditional ayurvedic treatment for thousands of years.
Bacopa is a genus of 70–100 aquatic plants belonging to the family Plantaginaceae. It’s native to India, where it grows in marshy regions. In the West, it’s a water plant often found in aquariums. Bacopa species are found in tropical and subtropical regions of the world, particularly the Americas. Most parts of the plant have been used traditionally, but modern preparations focus on the stem and leaves. The types traditionally used in herbal medicines are Bacopa monnieri or Bacopa monnieri. It’s also commonly called brahmi and water hyssop as well.
Bacopa monnieri has been used by Ayurvedic medical practitioners for centuries for a variety of purposes, including improving memory, reducing anxiety, and treating epilepsy (2). Research shows a boost brain function and that it alleviate anxiety and stress, among other benefits. The leaves contain saponins, including bacosides, that are believed to be responsible for the therapeutic properties of the herb. Studies have shown that both purified bacosides and extracts of bacopa standardized for bacosides have been found to enhance several aspects of mental function and learning ability. Since at least the sixth century A.D., bacopa has been used in Ayurvedic medicine as a diuretic and tonic for the nervous system as well as the heart. In Indian and Ayurvedic medicines, it’s typically known as “Brahmi” after Brahmā, the creator god of the Hindu pantheon. In Ayurveda, pitta energy is considered the regulator of heat, energy, excitement and passion. A pitta imbalance is believed to be reflected in an inflamed, overheated, over-agitated condition of mind and/or body. Brahmi is known as a soother of pitta imbalances. In India, where bacopa has been revered for centuries, newborn babies are consecrated with it in the hope that it will open up the pathway to the intellect. In 1998, the Nobel Prize in Physiology and Medicine was given jointly to Robert F. Furchgott, Louis J. Ignarro and Ferid Murad for their discoveries of nitric oxide as a signaling molecule in the cardiovascular system. It’s been said that the Nobel Prize winners used bacopa in their award-winning experiments.
How Much To Use (Dosage)
Bacopa is available in several forms, including powder, capsule, tea and syrup. According to the Alternative Medicine Review, recommended daily dosages are:
2 – 3 grams of herb – cut and sifted or powder
Stick with bacopa products that are organic or wild-crafted to reduce the likelihood of contamination and GMOs.
Homemade Bacopa Tea
One way to get all these tremendous benefits is to try some bacopa tea. You won’t get the jitters of traditional caffeine beverages, but you’ll likely get an uplifting and relaxing effect from this tea.
To make tea from the plant, you can add a few fresh leaves or a good pinch of dried bacopa to one cup of boiled water and allow to steep up to 10 minutes. If you use fresh leaves, you can tear and bruise the leaves so the aromatic oils are released into the water. Strain off the infused water so the leaves don’t get in the way of drinking.
It has a warming, woody and slightly bitter taste that can be made more palatable with the addition of some honey. If you opt to use fresh bacopa, at least one study indicates that the use of the fresh plant material maximizes the concentration of its active saponins.
How to use:
We make these suggestions to help you get the best benefit from the herbs that you’re choosing to improve your health. Also we make these ideas and recommendations so that consuming them easier and better fit into your lifestyle by adding them to the food that you already eat.
For the full health benefit, it is best to consume (or use the whole herb in poultices) the whole herb. All of the compounds in the herb act best together, as nature intends. Extracts draw out the most prominent beneficial compounds and may concentrate them. What is not extracted can be helpful in ways that we do not yet understand.
Cut Pieces or Powdered Herb:
There are different ways to use cut pieces or powdered herb.
Food Preparation: You can add powdered or pieces of herb (if the pieces you buy are bigger than you like, a coffee or herb grinder will quickly reduce) to any yogurt, smoothie, apple or other sauces, spreads, salads or other foods more familiar to you that don’t use heat. Heat can be damaging to the beneficial compounds in the herb. Other options like oatmeal, scrambled eggs, pasta sauce, soup, cookies and anything else that fits your lifestyle, but minimizing (by adding near the end of cooking) the heat is helpful.
Also, for children, you can mix powdered herb with honey or glycerin to make paste. The thicker the paste, the more potent and herbal in taste. The sweet taste of honey and glycerin will help medicine go down. The resulting liquid is called an electuary.
For seeds in general, but especially small seeds, it’s best to grind these to break the protective hulls a short time before consumption. This makes all the benefits available, rather than some remaining locked inside the hulls that are unbroken by insufficient chewing.
To make adding herbs even easier, you could add a week’s worth of your chosen herb(s) to an amount of, for example, yogurt that you would eat in a week. Mix thoroughly and eat this each day of the week. So you make once /week and just eat each other day.
Hot Infusion: The basic method for dried herbs and flower is, take 2-3 tablespoons of dried herb in a cup or teapot. Pour hot water over it and cover it with lid for 10-30 minutes. The heat from making tea can degrade some of the beneficial compounds in the herb. This method minimizes this effect. For the full health benefit, it is recommended to consume what is left over after making tea.
Decoctions: Decoctions are suitable for roots, barks, large seeds & berries, and other dense material. The simple way to make decoction is, in a saucepan, add 1 tablespoon of dried herbs to 1 cup of water, Bring the water to boil, reduce heat and simmer for 30-60 minutes with the pot covered. Squeeze out as much as liquid as possible. Best practice is to drink the liquid and also consume the solid material that remains. Herb pieces can also be used.
Powdered Herb:
There are different ways to use powdered herb.
Capsules: HerbsCrafters makes capsules guaranteed to be filled with the pure herb with no filler or any other products. You can also use powdered herb to make your own capsules at home. These capsules are best taken with liquid to aid in digestion and absorption and to ensure it doesn’t stick in your throat.
Poultice: Poultice can be made with an herbal powder and liquid (mostly water) to form a paste which is then applied to the skin. This method is very helpful for skin conditions.
Herbal shot: Powdered herb can be mixed with water, fruit juice or other liquid to make herbal shot.
Tips:
You can sweeten your herbal decoctions with bit of honey, natural fruit juice, stevia leaves powder or licorice root powder.
Precautions:
You should consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.
All information on this website is for educational purpose ONLY.
This information has not been evaluated by Health Canada.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
How Much To Use
It is common that 10g of a fresh herb = 1g when dehydrated.
The recommended dosage for adults is typically 1–3 g of the herb, taken 2–3 times daily






Reviews
There are no reviews yet.