Is Centella the Same as Brahmi? Demystifying a Common Herbal Mix-Up

January 9, 2026 •

3 min read

The name 'Brahmi' is a term used in Ayurveda to refer to two distinct and separate plants, leading to widespread confusion among consumers and practitioners. While both are known for their cognitive benefits, it is important to understand that the herb Centella asiatica is not the same as the aquatic plant Bacopa monnieri.

Quick Summary

This guide resolves the herbal confusion by defining the differences between Centella asiatica (Gotu Kola) and Bacopa monnieri, two potent but distinct Ayurvedic brain tonics.

Key Points

Two Separate Plants: Centella asiatica (Gotu Kola) and Bacopa monnieri are two different herbs, both of which are sometimes confusingly referred to as 'Brahmi'.
Bacopa for Memory: Bacopa monnieri is primarily known as a brain tonic for enhancing memory, learning, and concentration, thanks to its active bacosides.
Centella for Skin and Calm: Centella asiatica offers broader benefits, including promoting skin healing, boosting collagen, and soothing the nervous system.
Complementary Benefits: While distinct, the two herbs can be used together in Ayurvedic practice to create a synergistic effect for mental clarity and emotional stability.
Regional Naming Cause: The common confusion stems from regional differences in India, where the term 'Brahmi' can refer to either plant depending on the location.
Different Mechanisms: Bacopa's effect is more stimulating for the intellect, while Centella's is more restorative and soothing.

The Root of the Confusion: Two Plants, One Name

To unravel the misunderstanding, we must first understand that the confusion originates from a regional naming convention in India. In Southern India, the name 'Brahmi' is typically used for Bacopa monnieri, a creeping, water-loving plant. Conversely, in Northern and Western India, 'Brahmi' often refers to Centella asiatica, also known by its more common name, Gotu Kola. This geographical difference in nomenclature has blurred the lines between these two powerful herbs, despite their distinct botanical classifications, chemical compositions, and primary therapeutic applications.

Meet the 'True' Brahmi: Bacopa monnieri

Recognized as a prominent Medhya Rasayana (mind rejuvenator) in classical Ayurvedic texts, Bacopa monnieri is a well-established brain tonic. Its primary active compounds are bacosides, which have been shown to protect brain cells and increase the availability of brain chemicals associated with learning and memory.

Key actions: Bacopa monnieri works as a cognitive enhancer, primarily by supporting and nourishing the nervous system. It is particularly known for:
- Improving memory retention and recall.
- Enhancing concentration and mental alertness.
- Reducing stress and anxiety by providing a sense of calm to an overactive mind.
- Protecting the brain from oxidative damage.

This herb is often recommended for students, professionals under mental strain, or older adults seeking to preserve mental acuity. It is considered a gentle stimulant for the intellect, making it a powerful ally during periods of intense mental performance.

Getting to Know Centella asiatica (Gotu Kola)

Also classified as a Medhya Rasayana, Centella asiatica (Gotu Kola) is a different plant with a broader range of therapeutic benefits beyond just cognitive function. It grows in humid regions of Asia and is sometimes called 'Mandukaparni' in Sanskrit. Its active compounds include asiaticoside and madecassoside, triterpenes known for their potent regenerative properties.

Key actions: While also benefiting the mind, Gotu Kola's primary effects are restorative and soothing. It is renowned for:
- Skin Health: Promoting wound healing, stimulating collagen production, and fighting signs of aging.
- Circulatory Support: Improving blood flow and reducing swelling, particularly in cases of venous insufficiency.
- Nervous System Soothing: Calming the nervous system, improving sleep quality, and alleviating nervousness from chronic overwork.
- Antioxidant Effects: Protecting cells from damage with its antioxidant properties.

A Complementary Approach: Using Them Together

Despite their differences, combining Centella asiatica and Bacopa monnieri is a common Ayurvedic practice to achieve synergistic effects. For example, Bacopa might be used to stimulate mental energy and memory, while Gotu Kola is used to channel and anchor that energy, promoting stability and inner peace. This combination is particularly useful for those seeking enhanced mental performance without the risk of overstimulation.

Comparison: Centella asiatica vs. Bacopa monnieri


Feature	Centella asiatica (Gotu Kola)	Bacopa monnieri ('True' Brahmi)
Botanical Name	Centella asiatica	Bacopa monnieri
Appearance	Rounded, webbed leaves	Small, succulent, oblong leaves
Geographic Origin	Asia, including India, China, and Sri Lanka	India, Africa, Australia, and the Americas
Traditional Naming	Called Gotu Kola (or sometimes Brahmi in North India)	Commonly called Brahmi (or water hyssop)
Primary Actions	Soothing, regenerative, restorative	Stimulating, memory-enhancing, cognitive support
Key Benefits	Skin healing, collagen boost, improved circulation, anxiety relief	Memory enhancement, improved concentration, nervous system nourishment
Active Compounds	Asiaticoside, Madecassoside	Bacosides
Ayurvedic Analogy	Channels and anchors mental energy	Stimulates mental energy and clarity

Conclusion: Complementary, Not Identical

In summary, it is clear that Centella and Brahmi are not the same plant, but rather two distinct and powerful herbs often misidentified due to regional naming conventions. While Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi) is a potent cognitive stimulant prized for memory and concentration, Centella asiatica (Gotu Kola) offers a soothing, restorative effect on both the mind and body, with additional benefits for skin and circulation. Understanding this key difference empowers consumers to make informed choices based on their specific health goals, whether seeking a boost in focus or a calming, regenerative tonic. The two can even be used together for a balanced, synergistic approach to overall wellness.

For more information on Ayurvedic herbs, visit the authoritative source for botanicals used in traditional practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

The naming confusion stems from regional variations in India. In some northern and western regions, the name 'Brahmi' is used for Centella asiatica (Gotu Kola), while in southern India, the same name refers to Bacopa monnieri.

While both offer cognitive benefits, Bacopa monnieri is generally regarded as superior for memory protection and enhancement, containing potent bacosides that support learning and memory retention.

Gotu Kola is another common name for Centella asiatica. Therefore, it is distinct from Bacopa monnieri, which is the other herb commonly known as Brahmi. They are not the same plant.

Yes, using Centella and Bacopa together is a common practice in Ayurveda to achieve a balanced, synergistic effect. Bacopa stimulates mental energy, while Centella helps ground and calm the nervous system.

Centella asiatica is well-known for its skin benefits, including promoting wound healing, reducing inflammation, boosting collagen production, and improving skin elasticity.

Yes, they have different primary active compounds. Bacopa monnieri contains bacosides, while Centella asiatica contains triterpenes such as asiaticoside and madecassoside, which contribute to their distinct therapeutic effects.

Centella asiatica has a more prominent calming and soothing effect on the nervous system, making it an excellent choice for anxiety, extreme nervousness, and improving sleep quality.

Yes. Centella asiatica (Gotu Kola) has rounded, webbed leaves that resemble a frog's foot, while Bacopa monnieri has smaller, succulent, oblong leaves.