Phytochemical Composition and Pharmacological Properties of Bacopa monnieri

Plants have always been an indispensable part of human life since the beginning of human civilization. Bacopa monnieri (L.), popularly known as Brahmi, is widely considered the water hyssop or Indian pennywort. In Ayurveda, it is classified as a Rasayana (rejuvenation) and projected to promote mental and physical health, rejuvenate the body in debilitated conditions, and increase longevity. Each naturally synthesized chemical constituent identified from Bacopa monnieri leaf extract with different solvents has significant pharmacological activity. Multiple preclinical and clinical studies have supported the neuroprotective, hepatoprotective, gastroprotective, antioxidant, antitumor, learning- and memory enhancing activity of Bacopa monnieri and its bioactive constituents. The present review describes the botany, pharmacology, traditional uses, and phytoconstituents of Bacopa monnieri to highlight future research needs and potential uses of this medicinal herb.