Therapeutic Footprints of Brahmi (Bacopa Monnieri (l.) Wettst.) in the Brihattrayi: A Comparative Analytical Review of Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita and Ashtanga Hridaya

Abstract

Background: Brahmi, (Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst.,) is a well-known medicinal plant described extensively in Ayurveda and traditionally associated with Medhya (cognitive-enhancing) and Rasayana (rejuvenative) properties. Its contemporary pharmacological identity is predominantly centred on cognition, memory and neuroprotective effects. However, classical Ayurvedic texts describe Brahmi in diverse therapeutic, pharmaceutical and classificatory contexts, suggesting a broader therapeutic identity that remains insufficiently mapped systematically.

Aim: To comparatively analyse the therapeutic, pharmaceutical and conceptual dimensions of Brahmi documented in the Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita and Ashtanga Hridaya.

Materials and Methods: A comparative textual review was undertaken. References to Brahmi were extracted and classified according to textual context, pharmaceutical form, route, plant part, therapeutic domain, therapeutic purpose, life-stage and dietary or medicinal orientation. 57 textual references were identified: 18 in Charaka Samhita, 21 in Sushruta Samhita and 18 in Ashtanga Hridaya. 50 were indication-based and 7 classificatory. Each indication-based reference was assigned one primary therapeutic domain.

Results: Medhya applications predominated (16/50; 32.0%), followed by paediatric (16.0%), Ashmari/urinary (14.0%), Rakshakarma (12.0%), Rasayana (10.0%), dermatological (10.0%), respiratory (4.0%) and other applications (2.0%). Panchanga was specified in 54/57 references (94.7%), with diverse pharmaceutical forms and routes documented. It is also classified under Pathyatama Shaka Varga, Prajasthapana Dashemani and Agrya for Vyapasmrti.

Conclusion: Brihattrayi presents Brahmi as multidimensional Dravya extending beyond cognition across therapeutic, pharmaceutical, dietary contexts.