Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) is a traditional Ayurvedic herb that has been used for centuries to enhance memory, improve concentration, and promote a balanced emotional state. Brahmi has received widespread interest for its nootropic effects and its ability to support neurological and cognitive function.
As more research emerges on the safety and efficacy of brahmi, many parents have become interested in its potential benefits for children. This article will explore the uses of brahmi for kids, along with the possible side effects.
Benefits of Brahmi for Children:
- Supports Brain Development: Brahmi contains bacosides and other nootropic compounds that support healthy brain development. Research shows brahmi enhances protein activity in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex, areas of the brain responsible for learning, memory and higher cognitive function.
- Giving kids supplements containing brahmi has been shown to improve memory capacity, attention span, academic performance, and reasoning skills. It’s believed that brahmi’s neuroprotective effects come from its ability to balance key neurotransmitters in the brain.
- Reduces ADHD Symptoms: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common disorders facing kids today. The results of controlled studies show brahmi can reduce symptoms of ADHD in children, including restlessness, distraction and impulsivity. Researchers believe brahmi helps regulate dopamine and serotonin in the prefrontal cortex.
- Alleviates Anxiety and Stress: Anxiety and worry can affect kids’ emotional wellbeing along with their social development and academic success. Human and animal research indicates that brahmi counteracts stress-induced biochemical changes in the brain. Regular supplementation of brahmi can also normalize hormone levels and control physiological responses to chronic stress in children.
Possible Side Effects
When given at appropriate doses, brahmi is very well tolerated by both children and adults. But some side effects may occur, including:
- Digestive upset – Stomach cramps or nausea are sometimes reported after taking brahmi, especially at high doses. Taking brahmi with food may help minimize digestive issues.
- Drowsiness – Brahmi has a relaxing, sedative effect that can cause drowsiness or lethargy. Avoid taking brahmi before tasks requiring concentration, such as schoolwork.
- Dry mouth – Decreased saliva production, resulting in xerostomia (dry mouth) is another possible adverse effect. Sipping water while taking brahmi can help prevent this response.
- Slowed heart rate – Brahmi may interact with antiarrhythmic drugs because it can slightly slow down heart rate and affect conduction between the sinoatrial and atrioventricular nodes.
Note: Children taking any medications should have medical guidance before taking brahmi. Pregnant women should avoid brahmi.
Recommended Dosage
Brahmi comes in various forms – tablets, capsules, syrups and oils. Brahmi brain tonics are also very popular in India. The recommended dosage depends on the child’s age:
- Children 7-10 years: 50-75 mg standardized extract daily
- Children 11-14 years 75-100 mg daily
- Teens 15-18 years: 100-200 mg daily
Look for a supplement labelled with the percentage of bacosides, which should range from 30-55%. Bacosides are responsible for brahmi’s nootropic and neuroprotective benefits.
Due to brahmi’s reported side effects, don’t exceed the maximum suggested doses for children. To enhance safety, start with low doses (25 mg) for a week before increasing to the full dosage.
Conclusion
Brahmi is an Ayurvedic staple that has withstood the test of time. It has unique benefits for children’s brain development, cognition, stress response, and hyperactive tendencies. Just be cautious with dosages and be aware of potential side effects. Brahmi supplements can promote neurological optimization when used responsibly.
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FAQs
1. What is Brahmi?
Ans. Brahmi is a traditional Ayurvedic herb that has been used for centuries to enhance memory, improve concentration, and promote a balanced emotional state.
2. What are the benefits of Brahmi for children?
Ans. The key benefits of Brahmi for children include supporting brain development, reducing ADHD symptoms, and alleviating anxiety and stress.
3. How does Brahmi support brain development in children?
Ans. Brahmi contains compounds like bacosides that enhance protein activity in areas of the brain responsible for learning, memory, and cognitive function. It has been shown to improve memory capacity, attention and reasoning skills in children.
4. Can Brahmi help manage ADHD symptoms in kids?
Ans. Yes, research indicates that Brahmi can help reduce ADHD symptoms like restlessness, distraction, and impulsivity in children by regulating neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin.
5. What are the potential side effects of Brahmi in children?
Ans. Some possible side effects of Brahmi in children include digestive upset, drowsiness, dry mouth, and a slightly slowed heart rate.
6. How long does it take for Brahmi to work in children?
Ans. The effects of Brahmi may take 4-6 weeks of consistent use to be noticeable, so patience is required. Start with low doses and increase gradually as tolerated.
