BIOPROSEPECTING AND GENETIC TRANSFORMATION OF BACOPA MONNIERI L. THE SOURCE OF TRADITIONAL INDIAN AYURVEDIC MEDICINE: A REVIEW

Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst.a member of the family Scrophulariaceae has been used in traditional Ayurvedic Indian medicine for over 3000 year s. This herbal remedy is also known as, Brahmi. The n ame Brahmi is derived from the word "Brama" the mythical "creator" in the Hindu panthem. It was used as a brain toxic to enhance memory developed, learning, and concentration, and to provide relief to patients with anxiety or epileptic d isorders. The plant has also been used as a cardiac toxic, digestive aid and to improve respiratory function in cases of bronchoconstriction.