False Daisy

(Indian Pennywort)
Sanskrit: मण्डूकपर्णी • Botanical: Centella asiatica (Linn.) Urban

Mandukparni (Centella asiatica) is one of the premier Medhya (brain tonic) herbs. It grows near water bodies and in marshy areas at up to 2000 feet altitude. Its kidney-shaped leaves resemble a frog's foot (Manduka = frog). It is widely used in memory disorders, cognitive decline, anxiety and as a general nerve tonic. In South India it is commonly known as Vallarai. Hydrocotyline and Asiaticoside are the main active compounds. It improves learning ability and concentration. Used extensively in pediatric brain development. The whole herb is used. Dose: Swarasa 2-4 tola; Kvatha 4-8 tola. Also mentioned: Hydrocotyle asiatica. Verse: 271-272.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Bitter (Tikta), Astringent (Kashaya)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Hydrocotylin C22H43NO9, Asiaticoside, Brahmic acid, Vellarine
Also Known As
English: Indian Pennywort, Gotu Kola
Sanskrit: मण्डूकपर्णी, भेकपर्णी, त्वष्ट्री
Hindi: मण्डूकपर्णी, ब्राह्मी

What is False Daisy (Bhringaraja / भृंगराज)?

Mandukparni (Centella asiatica) is one of the premier Medhya (brain tonic) herbs. It grows near water bodies and in marshy areas at up to 2000 feet altitude. Its kidney-shaped leaves resemble a frog's foot (Manduka = frog). It is widely used in memory disorders, cognitive decline, anxiety and as a general nerve tonic. In South India it is commonly known as Vallarai. Hydrocotyline and Asiaticoside are the main active compounds. It improves learning ability and concentration. Used extensively in pediatric brain development. The whole herb is used. Dose: Swarasa 2-4 tola; Kvatha 4-8 tola. Also mentioned: Hydrocotyle asiatica. Verse: 271-272.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Medhya (intellect promoting)
  • Smritiprada (memory enhancing)
  • Rasayana (rejuvenative)
  • Swarya (improves voice)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

False Daisy by Condition

Explore how False Daisy is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.

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False Daisy for Brain Fog & Memory

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.