In your case, stress management has to be handled carefully because of ulcerative colitis with a Pitta–Vata tendency. Some herbs like Ashwagandha can increase heat or irritation in certain individuals, which seems to be happening for you. Bacopa (Brahmi) is generally a better choice here. It is cooling in nature, supports the nervous system, and helps reduce anxiety and mental overactivity without significantly aggravating gut inflammation when taken properly. You can use it, but in a gentle and controlled way. Keep your routine calming and regular. Avoid long gaps between meals, very spicy food, excess caffeine, and irregular sleep, as these can trigger both stress and gut flare. Continue your current medical treatment for ulcerative colitis without interruption. At home, you can also include simple practices like warm meals, early dinners, and short daily relaxation or breathing exercises to support both mind and gut. • Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) capsule – 250–300 mg once daily after food, can increase to twice daily if well tolerated • Shatavari churna – 1 teaspoon with milk or warm water at bedtime • Yashtimadhu (Licorice) churna – ½ teaspoon with warm water once daily These help in calming the nervous system, supporting gut lining, and balancing Pitta. Start with a low dose and observe for 1–2 weeks. If there is any increase in bowel symptoms, stop and reassess. This approach can help reduce stress reactivity while being gentle on your gut. Regards, Dr Raghuveer (Ayurvedacharya)
Thank you for your reply. I am a little bit concerned about stories of bacopa lowering motivation, what are your thoughts about this? And are these herbs, especially licorice, suitable to be taken for longer periods of time?
Your concern is very valid, especially in your situation where both mental clarity and motivation are important along with gut safety. Regarding Bacopa (Brahmi): It primarily acts as a calming and stabilizing herb for the nervous system. In some people, especially at higher doses, it can create a slightly calming or slowing effect, which may feel like reduced drive or motivation. This is not very common, but it can happen in individuals who are already low in energy or taking higher doses. In your case, this can be managed by: • Starting with a low dose • Taking it after food (preferably morning or early afternoon) • Avoiding high doses initially At lower doses, it usually improves focus and emotional balance without reducing motivation. Now regarding long-term use of herbs: Brahmi (Bacopa): • Generally safe for longer duration when taken in moderate doses • Can be continued for a few months, with occasional breaks Yashtimadhu (Licorice): • Should be used more carefully • Long-term continuous use (especially high dose) can lead to water retention or mild increase in blood pressure in some individuals • Better used in small doses and for limited duration (4–6 weeks at a time), then reassess For your condition (stress + ulcerative colitis), a slightly safer long-term approach would be: • Brahmi (Bacopa) capsule – 250 mg once daily after food • Shatavari churna – 1 teaspoon at bedtime You can keep licorice as a short-term supportive option, not as a continuous long-term herb. This way, you get calming support without affecting motivation or causing long-term side effects. If you notice any dullness, low drive, or digestive changes, you can adjust the dose or pause. Regards, Dr Raghuveer (Ayurvedacharya)