Centella asiatica was referred to as Brahmi and Mandulkaparni in the Sanskrit texts. It was believed to be a remedy for leprosy. The leaves of Brahmi were applied externally on blows and bruises and used for pediatric problems in bowel problems and fever. The plant was believed to be diuretic. By energizing the central nervous system & aiding the circulatory system it soothes and reduces varicose veins and decreases scarring. Thus it is advantageous for mental function and longevity.The herb is found at waste places like swampy areas and weed in crop fields in India up to the altitude of 600 m.
Centella AsiaticaConstituents of Brahmi are following glycosides: asiaticoside, thankuniside & isothankuniside. By hydrolysis of the glycosides brahmic, indocentoic, asiatic, isothankunic and thankunic corresponding triterpene acids are obtained. The first three acids are present in the free form in the herb apart from isobrahmic and betulic acids. Mesoinositol, a new oligosaccharide, ‘centellose’, quercetin, stigmasterol, and kaempferol, have also been found.
Centella AsiaticaThe ingredients in Brahmi are Bacoside A and B. The former relaxes the aorta and veins by releasing nitric oxide which enables the blood to flow freely through the body. Thus it strengthens the immune system and promotes longevity.
The latter is a protein revered for the nourishment of the brain cells which improves mental clarity, intelligence, confidence and memory recall. Asiaticosides can stimulate the eticuloendothelial system where old blood cells are destroyed and old ones are formed, iron is metabolized, fatty materials are stored and immune responses as well as inflammation take place. Its primary mode of action is on the different phases of connective tissue development that are part of the healing process. Also it increases keratinization, which the process of building more skin in areas of infection. Asiaticosides are helpful in stimulating the synthesis of lipids & proteins which is essential for healthy skin. By repairing the connective tissues surrounding veins and decreasing capillary fragility it strengthens the veins.
Centella Asiatica Brahmi is valued for its remedial properties in indigenous medicine. For rheumatism, elephantiasis and hydrocele a cold poultice of the plant is used for external application. An ointment & dusting powder of the herb is used for treating leprosy & other skin diseases. As a tonic it is helpful in treating bronchitis, asthma, gastric, kidney troubles, urethritis, dropsy, catarahh and leucorrhoea. For treatment of haemorrhoids a decoction of young shoots is recommended. It is also used for Tissue Development, Cough problems and Brain, Nervous System, Blood, Gastrointestinal, Glandular, Immune System, Liver, Respiratory Tract, and Cardiovascular Conditions.