The herbs Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) and Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri or Centella asiatica) are indeed highly regarded in Ayurvedic tradition for supporting the nervous system and cognitive function.
Here is a breakdown of your questions based on traditional and modern knowledge:
1. Other Potent Herbs for Neurological Support Beyond Ashwagandha and Brahmi (often referred to as Bacopa monnieri in a neurological context), several other herbs are known to support brain and nerve health:
Ginkgo Biloba Ginkgo biloba Known to improve blood flow to the brain, supporting cognitive function and memory. Turmeric Curcuma longa Contains Curcumin, which has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that may benefit brain health. Holy Basil (Tulsi) Ocimum tenuiflorum An adaptogen that supports the endocrine system and adrenal glands, helping the nervous system cope with stress. Jatamansi Nardostachys jatamansi Traditionally used as a nervine and brain tonic to promote calmness and support memory. Shankhapushpi Convolvulus pluricaulis A traditional brain tonic used to support memory, concentration, and calm the mind. Gotu Kola Centella asiatica (Also sometimes called Brahmi) A nervine and adaptogen that supports memory, circulation, and relaxation. Milky Oat Avena sativa A nourishing tonic for the central nervous system, often used for depletion and long-term stress.
2. Combining Herbs (Ashwagandha + Brahmi + others) Yes, these herbs can generally be taken together, and in traditional systems like Ayurveda, they are often combined into formulas to achieve a synergistic and balanced effect.
Formulations: Ayurvedic products frequently combine herbs to target specific health conditions, enhance bioavailability, or balance the inherent nature (like heating/cooling properties) of the individual components.
Balance: Combining a warming herb (like Ashwagandha) with a cooling herb (like Bacopa/Brahmi) is a common strategy to mitigate the risk of excessive heat buildup in the body.
3. Combining with Honey and Heat Considerations Honey is considered an excellent Anupana (carrier) in Ayurveda, helping the herb penetrate deeper into the tissues.
Honey’s Nature: While honey is generally considered to have a warming (Ushna) quality, its effect is often considered relatively mild compared to strong heating herbs.
The Heat Issue: Ashwagandha is considered warming. Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) is often considered cooling. The concern about combining a warming herb (Ashwagandha) with a warming carrier (Honey) leading to excess body heat (Pitta aggravation) is a valid one in Ayurvedic practice.
Perfect Combination for Balance:
Use Cooling Partners: To balance the heat of Ashwagandha and Honey, an Ayurvedic practitioner might suggest adding Ghee (clarified butter), which is considered highly cooling and a potent Anupana for the brain and nervous system. A classic combination is Ashwagandha powder with Ghee and Honey.
Important Ayurvedic Warning: Never mix equal weights of Ghee and Honey, as this combination is traditionally considered toxic. Mixing equal volume (e.g., 1 teaspoon of each) is generally considered acceptable, but to be safest, use Ghee in a higher amount than honey, or vice-versa (e.g., 2 parts Ghee to 1 part Honey).
Use Cold or Lukewarm Water/Milk: If taking Ashwagandha with honey, it is often recommended to use it with lukewarm or cold milk/water rather than hot water to counteract the warming effect.
Use Cooling Herbs as a Base: Combining the mixture with inherently cooling herbs like Brahmi or Shatavari can also help maintain temperature balance.
4. Is Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) a Neurological Disease? Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is formally classified as a mental health condition in diagnostic manuals (like the DSM-5).
However, current understanding strongly points to a neurobiological basis:
Brain Structure/Function: Brain imaging studies show that people with OCD often have differences in activity or structure in certain brain areas, particularly a circuit involving the frontal cortex and subcortical structures (like the basal ganglia and thalamus), which are involved in controlling behavior and emotions.
Neurotransmitters: Imbalances in certain neurotransmitters (like serotonin, dopamine, and glutamate) are implicated in the disorder, and medications that target these systems are often used for treatment.
Neuropsychiatric: Because of the strong evidence of differences in brain circuitry and neurochemistry, OCD is increasingly viewed as a neuropsychiatric disorder—a condition with psychological/behavioral symptoms that stem from biological dysfunction in the brain.
In summary, while not strictly a neurological disease in the same category as Parkinson’s or Multiple Sclerosis, OCD has significant neurobiological components that are central to its cause and treatment.
HELLO RAHUL,
Neurological disorders include a wide range of conditions affecting the brain , spinal cord, or nerves These can manifest as memory loss, weakness, tremors, anxiety, stress, OCD, insomnia, or difficulty in coordination. From an Ayurvedic viewpoint, these are often considered vata disorders (nerve dysfunction ) and Manasa vikara (mental imbalance)
UNDERSTANDING YOUR CONDITION
WHY IT HAPPENS -imbalance of vata dosha- nervous system, movement, sensation -sometimes pitta imbalance - inflammation , irritability -stress, poor sleep, improper diet, toxins, chronic illness can worsen it
SYMPTOMS YOU MIGHT NOTICE -weakness or numbness in limbs -tremors or involuntary movement -memory issues, confusion, difficulty focusing -anxiety, restlessness, obsessive thoughts -fatigue, sleep disturbances
Think of your nervous system like a delicate wire system. If the wiring is weak or short circuited, signals don’t flow properly, and the body and mind show symptoms
TREATMENT GOALS -balance doshas=primarily vata, sometimes pitta -strengthen nerves= improve nerve regeneration and repair -enhane cognition= memory, focus, mental clarity -calm the mind= reduce stress, anxiety, and obsessive thoughts -support overall vitality= energy, immunity, and resilience
INTERNAL MEDICATIONS
1) BRAHMI VATI= 1 tab twice daily after meals =memory, nerve regeneration, cognition
2) ASHWAGANDHA EXTRACT= 1000mg extract powder with milk =neuroprotection, nerve repair, stress reduction
3) SHANKHAPUSHPI SYRUP= 15ml at night =calms mind, improvs focus
4) JATAMANSI CAPSULES= 1 cap at night =reduces anxiety, improves sleep , neuroprotective
5) GOTU KOLA= 5gm powder or extract =support nerve, repair, brain health
6) GUDUCHI= 15ml decocotion =immune support, detoxification, neuroprotection
LIFESTYLE AND DAILY PRACTICES
1) SLEEP -7-8 hours at consistent time -avoid late nights to prevent vata aggravation
2) STRESS MANAGEMENT -meditation, mindfullness, deep breathing exercise -limit excessive screen time
3) DAILY ROUTINE -wake early -gentle oil massage -warm shower
YOGA ASANAS -tadasana, vrikshasana, sukhasana= improves focus and balance -bhujangasana setu bandhasana= supports spinał and nerve health -shavasana= reduces stress, improves mental clarity
PRANAYAM -nadi sodhana= balances nervous system -bhramari=calms mind, reduces anxiety -anulom vilom= regulates prana, reduces vata aggravation
DIET -favour cooling, easily digestible vata pacifying foods -milk, ghee, soaked nuts- almonds, walnuts -whole grains -rice, oats, barley -fruits= sweet juicy fresh -vegetables= pumpkin, carrots, beets , leafy greens -herbal teas= brahmi, shankhapushpi, guduchi
AVOID -exces coffee, tea, alcohol -excessivley spicy, fried, or very cold foods -processed, frozen, or chemically treated foods
HOME REMEDIES -brahmi+ honeypaste= morning -ashwagandha milk at night -nuts soaked- almonds and walnuts daily -warm oil head massage 10-15 min daily
OCD is considered as neurological disorder
DO FOLLOW
HOPE THIS MIGHT BE HELPFUL
THANK YOU
DR. MAITRI ACHARYA
You are correct that Brahmi and ashwagandha or among the most important herbs in Ayurveda for supporting the nervous system, they help improve memory calm stress support, nerve function, and strengthen the brain and spinal cord This art can be taken together in a balanced combination along with that you can add Shankapuspi and jatamamsi While Ashwagandha is heating while Brahmi Shankapuspi and jatamamsi are cooling, which helps balance the effects when used together Honey announces the absorption of herbs but is naturally heating, so it should be used in moderation Just take Brahmi n Shankapuspi with a small amount of honey Ashwagandha better to be taken with warm milk instead of an honey
Cap. Brahmi Cap. Stresscom Tab. Kaucha Is the best combination for neurological issue as per my experience.
Hello Rahul ji, I can understand your concern but dont worry we are here to guide you
✅NERVE REGEBERATION HERBS
Neurological disorders are seen in Ayurveda as an imbalance of Vata dosha (responsible for nerve conduction, movement, and mental activity).
Hence, the approach is Rasayana (rejuvenation) + Medhya (nervine tonics) + Vata-Pitta balancing therapies.
✅KEY AYURVEDIC HERBS
You already know Ashwagandha and Brahmi. Here are others:
➡️ Ashwagandha Rasayana (rejuvenator), Vajikarana (strengthener). Improves nerve regeneration, reduces cortisol, calms anxiety. Excellent for Vata disorders like nerve weakness, insomnia, tremors.
➡️ Brahmi
Improves memory, concentration, and synaptic plasticity. Cools excessive Pitta (restlessness, OCD, overthinking). Balances hyperactivity and supports deep sleep.
➡️ Shankhpushpi
Best Medhya Rasayana for calming overactive mind. Reduces anxiety, restlessness, and insomnia. Enhances mental clarity without sedation.
➡️Jatamansi
Strong nervine relaxant. Excellent for obsessive thoughts, depression, anger, agitation. Protects nerves from oxidative stress.
➡️Yashtimadhu
Nourishes nerves and balances excess heat. Also prevents dryness in tissues caused by aggravated Vata.
✅HERBS COMBINATION
Instead of taking herbs randomly, Ayurveda recommends combining them for synergy:
Ashwagandha + Brahmi ➡️ Strength + Calmness.
Ashwagandha + Brahmi + Shankhpushpi ➡️Excellent for memory, focus, and stress relief.
Brahmi + Jatamansi + Mandukaparni ➡️ Best for OCD, obsessive thoughts, and anxiety.
👉 Many classical formulations already use these blends:
Brahmi Vati 1-0-1 after food – balances mind, reduces anxiety, improves focus.
Ashwagandhadi Lehyam 1 tsp daily – strengthens nerves and muscles.
Medhya Rasayana Churna – a famous blend of Brahmi, Shankhpushpi, Jatamansi, Vacha.
✅HONEY AS A CARRIE(Anupana)
Honey is Yogavahi – meaning it carries the herb’s effect deeper into tissues.
Yes, honey is slightly heating, so if combined only with Ashwagandha (which is hot), it may increase Pitta (causing acidity or heat).
Solution- Balance it with cooling herbs (Brahmi, Jatamansi, Shankhpushpi).
✅ OCD and Neurological Connection
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is not purely a neurological disorder – it is a neuro-psychiatric disorder. Ayurveda explains it as Manovaha Srotas Dushti (disturbance in mental channels) with Vata-Pitta imbalance.
Vata causes repetitive thoughts and restlessness.
Pitta causes over-intensity and irritation. Herbs like Jatamansi, Brahmi, Shankhpushpi are particularly beneficial here.
👉 With this approach, you can not only support nerve regeneration but also improve mental clarity, calmness, and emotional balance without side effects.
Wishing you a good health😊
Warm Regards Dr Snehal Vidhate
Thank you for reaching out and trusting this platform
Brahmi and Ashwagandha are indeed very effective for the nervous system Brahmi helps calm, the mind, improve, focus, and support memory while Ashwagandha strengthen the nervous system, improves energy and helps the body manage stress There are other herbs that are also very supportive for neurological health Shankapuspi and jatamamsi are coming her that help with anxiety sleep, and mental clarity Gotu kola helps with memory and cognition Guduchi supports overall wealth, and immunity Vacha can you improve alertness and focus These can often be combine, but the key is to balance their qualities so that the combination supports the nervous system without causing excess heat or imbalance in the body Honey is often used to carry the effects of herbs, but since it has a warming nature, it should be used carefully, especially with warm herbs like Ashwagandha. The Best approach is to combine with cooling herbs such as Brahmi Shankapuspi or jatamamsi This helps the body absorb the benefits of the herbs while minimising any potential eating effects Avoid eating any, and this can increase its warming effect About obsessive compulsive disorder, it is considered as a neurological or neuro psychiatric condition in Ayurveda. This is Sena disturbance of Mind and nervous system. Often related to imbalances of VATA and PITTA Herbs that calm, the mind and support the nerves along with lifestyle measures to reduce stress and stabilised, digestion and sleep can be very helpful as a supportive care
In short, apart from ashwagandha and Brahmi , Shankapuspi jatamamsi gotu kola guduchi and vacha useful for neurological support when combining these herbs with honey , it is important to balance eating and cooling qualities so that herbs work effectively without aggravating heat in the body A thoughtful combination can strengthen the nervous system, calm the mind and improve focus and mental clarity
Hello Rahulk
Yes Ashwagandha and Brahmi are potent drugs for neurological disorders, but taking some more combination along with this will fasten results in neurological disorder. You can take Ekangvir ras 1-0-1 after food with water Shilajit satva 1-2 drops in a Cup of milk. Do pranayam lom -vilom bhastrika bhamri 5-10mins daily twice
Yes it true both ashwagandha and brahmi are wonderful drugs for the nervous system. But there are various formulations in ayurveda that are used for nervous diseases.
1.Shankhapushpi syp. 2.Vacha churna 3.Tagar tablets 4.Saraswatarishta 5.Brahma rasayan 6.Brahmi ghrita
4.
Hi Rahul this is Dr Vinayak as considering your problem… See first OCD is not exactly neurology some what related to psychology related…just based on thinking issues… Rather then trying too much medicine just like trial and error …just change the mindset …try to adjust to surrounding climate…
As you already know Brahmi is best to neurology…along with that shankapuspi, Saraswati arista etc have good results on this condition…
But ghee is better than honey has ghee has capacity to cross even blood brain barrier and to reach up to brain…
Indeed, Brahmi and Ashwagandha are widely recognized in Ayurveda for their beneficial effects on the nervous system. They are known as medhya rasayanas, which means they rejuvenate the mind. Besides these, there are several other herbs that are also found effective in neurological disorders. Shankhpushpi, for instance, is another powerful herb for sharpening the intellect and calming the mind. It acts on the nervous system by reducing anxiety and improving memory.
Jatamansi is another herb well-regarded for its calming properties. It helps to promote mental wellness, reduce mental fatigue, and balance the Vata dosha. Vacha is known to enhance cognitive functions and diminish stress levels. Each of these herbs has its unique properties, aligning well with certain prakritis (constitutions).
When it comes to combining these herbs with honey, special care should be taken, as honey has ushna (hot) properties. If you’re combining hot nature herbs like Ashwagandha with honey, it’s crucial to balance this heat to prevent increasing pitta dosha (heat in the body). Using cooling agents such as almond oil or mixing the herbs with a mild carrier like ghee can balance the heat. Thus, consuming these herbs in a milk or warm water medium particularly if they are combined with honey, would also help. This helps avoid potential issues like exacerbated body heat.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can indeed be classified under the realm of neurological and psychiatric conditions. Ayurveda often views it as an imbalance in the Sattva, leading to impaired mental processes affecting body control. Addressing dosha imbalances and implementing a suitable diet and lifestyle can provide supplementary support, but it’s vital these therapies are integrated with professional psychiatric care when dealing with OCD.
Always consider consulting a qualified practitioner to guide exact dosages and personalize recommendations for your unique body constitution and needs, to ensure both efficacy and safety in your treatment plan.
Yes, Brahmi and ashwagandha are renowned for their benefits in supporting neurological health. But there are other herbs too in Siddha-Ayurvedic medicine that can aid in nerve-related concerns. Shankhapushpi is one well-regarded herb that has calming effects and supports memory. Jyotishmati (Celastrus paniculatus) is another herb traditionally used to enhance cognitive functions and relieve stress.
Using these herbs together with ashwagandha and Brahmi is possible but it’s important to understand the balance they provide. Brahmi has a cooling energy whereas ashwagandha is more warming, similar to honey. When combining with honey, which is also heating, it’s key to avoid any imbalance, especially for a pitta constitution which is already hot by nature. Consider using cooling herbs like Brahmi or Shankhapushpi in higher proportion or blend them with some Ghee, which has a cooling effect to counterbalance the heat.
For taking these herbs with honey: you can mix powdered forms into a suitable medium. A straightforward remedy is to blend equal parts of Brahmi and shankhapushpi in a teaspoon of ghee and then add this mix to a tablespoon of honey. This creates a balance and supports digestion (agni) without aggravating excess heat. Make sure to consult a practitioner to tailor the combination to your needs, considering your prakriti and any current imbalances.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) falls under mental health disorders, and it does pertain to neurological functioning as it involves compulsive behaviors driven by anxiety. An Ayurvedic approach would involve both mental and doshic balancing through lifestyle, diet, and suitable herbs. But for acute management, partnering with a mental health professional skilled in OCD treatment is crucial alongside herbal support.
