Hello This is a really good question, especially since you’ve been taking Brahmi and Shankhpushpi for over six months for stress and you’re thinking about the long run. Let’s get straight to it so you feel good about it.
YOUR CONCERN
You’re taking Brahmi capsules and Shankhpushpi powder. You’re using them for long-term stress. You haven’t skipped a day. You eat well. No side effects so far.
You’re worried about: Liver damage? Kidney damage? If you need to take breaks.
QUICK ANSWER: 👉 Pure Brahmi and Shankhpushpi, when taken correctly, are usually SAFE for long-term use. 👉 They won’t mess up your liver or kidneys if: You take the right amount. You get good quality stuff. Your digestion is decent.
Even so, Ayurveda still suggests taking breaks now and then. Not because these herbs are toxic, but to keep them working well and to stay balanced.
WHAT AYURVEDA SAYS ABOUT USING THEM FOR A LONG TIME:
About these herbs: –Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) It’s a brain tonic. It cools and nourishes. Helps your nervous system. It’s not toxic or habit-forming.
–Shankhpushpi Calms your mind and nerves. Reduces worry and overthinking. Helps you sleep and focus better. Also not toxic in its classic form. 👉 These are like superfoods for your body, not strong medicines.
HOW THEY AFFECT YOUR LIVER & KIDNEYS:
Liver: –These herbs don’t hurt your liver. –In fact, people often use them for stress-related heartburn and imbalances. –There’s no proof (from old Ayurvedic texts or modern studies) that they damage your liver at normal doses.
Kidneys: –They don’t make your kidneys work too hard. –They don’t have heavy metals in them (unlike some other ancient remedies). –They’re safe if your kidneys are working fine. 👉 Since you haven’t had any side effects and you eat well, the risk is super low.
SO, WHY THE BREAKS? –Ayurveda is all about rhythm and adapting. Using them constantly might lead to: –The herbs not working as well over time. –Some people feeling too cool. –Slight digestion issues (for sensitive folks). So, breaks are suggested to: –Let your body reset. –Keep them working for you in the long run. –Stop small imbalances from building up.
THE BEST WAY TO TAKE THEM FOR A LONG TIME:
–A good cycle to follow: –Take them for 8–12 weeks in a row. –Then stop for 7–14 days. –Start again if you need to. –This isn’t a must-do, but it’s a good idea.
HOW MUCH IS SAFE (IMPORTANT):
–Safe amounts for long-term use: –Brahmi capsules: 250–500 mg once or twice a day. –Shankhpushpi powder: ½ teaspoon once a day (or twice at most).
Don’t: –Take too much. –Mix too many brain tonics without a reason. –Take them if your digestion is really weak, and without food.
WHEN TO BE CAREFUL: –Take breaks or talk to a doctor if you start to feel: –No appetite. –Too cold. –Loose stools. –Very low on energy or heavy. –You don’t have any of these, which is a good sign!
LIFESTYLE TIPS (TO NEED THEM LESS):
–Sleep at regular times. –Practice breathing exercises (like Anulom-Vilom, Bhramari). –Do light exercise or walk. –Limit screen time at night. –This can help you naturally cut back on supplements over time.
✔ Brahmi and Shankhpushpi are among the safest Ayurvedic herbs. ✔ Using them for a long time does NOT hurt your liver or kidneys when taken correctly. ✔ Short breaks are good for balance, not because they’re dangerous. ✔ The fact that you’ve used them for 6+ months with no issues is a great sign.
Warm Regards Dr. Snehal Vidhate
No it’s depends on doses and your overall wellness.
✅ The short answer: YES, it is safe. Brahmi and Shankhpushpi are among the safest Medhya Rasayana herbs in Ayurveda. When taken in correct dose, good quality, and with a balanced diet, they do NOT cause liver or kidney damage, even with long-term use. 🔬 These herbs are: Non-toxic Non-habit forming Rasayana (rejuvenative), not suppressive The fact that you have been taking them for more than 6 months with no side effects and have a balanced, nutritious diet is a very positive sign. 👉 Unlike many modern anti-anxiety medicines, these herbs nourish the nervous system rather than overstimulate it. 🌿 If You Want to Strengthen the Effect (Optional Add-On Medicines) ✔ Brahm Rasayan – 3 g once daily (morning, after food) → Deep brain nourishment, stress resilience, memory support ✔ Saraswatarishta – 15 ml twice daily after meals with equal water → Calms anxiety, improves sleep, focus, and emotional balance 🕒 These can be safely continued for 2–3 months, then reviewed. 🧘♀️ Yoga & Pranayama for Stress Relief (Highly recommended along with medicines) Asanas (daily): Sukhasana Vajrasana Balasana Paschimottanasana Pranayama: Anulom Vilom – 5 minutes Bhramari – 5–7 rounds Nadi Shodhana – 5 minutes 🧠 Yoga enhances the effect of Medhya herbs and reduces dependency on medicines. 🌙 Lifestyle Tips to Protect Mind, Liver & Kidneys ✔ Adequate sleep (7–8 hours) ✔ Warm, freshly cooked food ✔ Avoid excess caffeine & late nights ✔ Daily sunlight exposure ✔ Digital detox before sleep
No no It doesn’t cause any side effects
You can take straight for 6 months N if required gv a short break observe your symptoms n accordingly restart
Both Brahmi capsules and Shankhpushpi powder are herbal , will not have any any side effects, only proper dose should be taken as recommended by ayurvedic physician. It has no side effects on liver or kidney.
Generally brahmi capsules and shankhpushpi powder are safe for long-term use when taken in recommended doses, and they do not usually cause liver or kidney damage. However, taking a short break (1–2 weeks every 2–3 months) is advised to avoid overuse and maintain balance.
Yes , its safe to take continuously for years, even without breaks. Both are cooling Rasayana herbs as they nourish the brain, reduce stress and do not cause liver or kidney problems in normal doses.
Recommended Use Brahmi capsules: 500 mg twice daily (safe lifelong). Shankhpushpi powder: 3–5 gm daily (1 tsp once or twice).
Take 1-week break every 3–4 months if desired, but not required.
Take after food. Monitor LFT/KFT yearly for peace of mind (usually normal).
Regards Dr Gursimran Jeet Singh MD Panchakarma
Take for long time not worry safe Not dangerous for liver etc Also do nasya with 2 drop each nostril 2 times day
⚖️ Long-term continuous use
- Breaks (“anupana” or pauses): Ayurveda often recommends periodic breaks to allow the body to reset and avoid habituation.
- Your case: Since you’ve taken them >6 months, with no side effects and a balanced diet, it suggests your system is tolerating them well.
Risk factors: Problems are more likely if: - Supplements are contaminated (heavy metals, adulterants). - Doses are much higher than recommended. - Pre-existing liver/kidney disease.
✅ Practical guidance - Stick to trusted brands with quality testing. - Periodic breaks (like 1–2 weeks every few months) are traditional but not mandatory if you’re symptom-free. - If you ever notice fatigue, jaundice, dark urine, or swelling — stop and consult a physician immediately.
Warm Regards Dr. Anjali Sehrawat
Not at all.
They are pure herbs with no mineral content (bhasma) in it.
Be rest assured.
