Comparative pharmacognostical characteristics of raw materials of Bacopa monnieri and Centella asiatica

Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri, Plantaginaceae family) is widely used as a nootropic in Ayurveda and Indian traditional medicine. However, the name Brahmi is used not only for B. monnieri, but also for Centella asiatica (Apiaceae family) due to similar pharmacological properties. The purpose of the current study was to conduct a comparative analysis of the authenticity of the herb B. monnieri and C. asiatica. Macro- and microscopic signs of two herbs have been studied. The main chemical compounds (triterpene saponins, flavonoids, tannins, etc.) found in plants and their pharmacological action associated with nootropic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and regenerating properties were considered. The similarity of plants in appearance, microscopy and chemical composition was revealed. Diagnostic signs are described to distinguish Bacopa from Centella. The indicators of the quality and safety of raw materials according to the regulatory documents of different countries are evaluated. Thus, establishing the authenticity of medicinal plant raw materials of B. monnieri and Centella asiatica by macro- and microscopic analysis is important to ensure the effectiveness and safety of medicinal phytopreparations. The study of external and anatomical diagnostic signs allows you to more accurately determine the composition of medicines, which allows you to prevent one of the plants from inclusion as an impurity.