The Quiet Healer: Mandukaparni’s Gift for Mind and Longevity

Some herbs don’t just heal, they whisper. Mandukaparni, with its soft, rounded leaves shaped like a frog’s foot, isn’t the kind to announce itself boldly. It grows low to the ground, preferring quiet, moist corners, as if attuned to the deeper rhythms of life. And yet, in the Ayurvedic tradition, this gentle creeper is considered among the ten great rejuvenates—Vayasthapanas—herbs that help sustain life and vitality over time.

Known by many names—Gotu Kola, Indian pennywort, and in Sanskrit, Mandukaparni—this plant has long been revered for its cooling, calming influence on the mind. It’s a close cousin to Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), and the two are often used interchangeably, though each has its own subtle intelligence.

Where Brahmi is slightly more activating, Mandukaparni invites stillness. I’ve found it particularly helpful in calming anxiety when used in combination with other herbs, especially for clients with milder Vata imbalances. On its own, it may not be the ideal choice if Vata is significantly elevated, but when thoughtfully blended, its effects are subtle, grounding, and deeply supportive of mental clarity.

The Rejuvenating Qualities of Mandukaparni

In Charaka Samhita, Sutrasthana Chapter 4, sloka 50, Mandukaparni is listed alongside herbs like Amrita (Guduchi) and Punarnava as one of the top ten longevity-promoting medicines:

“Amrita, Abhaya, Dhatri, Mukta, Shweta, Jivanti, Atirasa, Mandukaparni, Sthira, and Punarnava—these ten are the guardians of youth.”

And in Bhavaprakasha Nighantu (Guduchyadi Varga, verse 282), it is described with reverence:

"Mandukaparni, also called Manduki, is a divine herb. It is known as Brahmi, has a cooling effect, promotes movement, and is bitter in taste. It is light, intelligence-enhancing, and refreshing in nature."

With its bitter taste and cooling energy, it calms Pitta, nourishes the brain, and sharpens intellect. It’s an ally in times of stress, mental burnout, or emotional fatigue—gently bringing us back to center.

Growing Mandukaparni in Your Home Garden

Mandukaparni thrives in soft shade and consistently moist soil. In moderate climates like Northern California, it can even survive mild winters, tolerating temperatures down to 35°F for short spells. It grows happily in containers, hanging baskets, or along the edge of ponds—anywhere you can keep it hydrated and shielded from scorching sun.

At CAAM Conference 2025, a local gardener generously donated 20 Mandukaparni plants for our fundraising initiative—an offering that feels perfectly in sync with the herb’s generous spirit.

Weaving Mandukaparni into Daily Life

Mandukaparni’s fresh leaves can be taken directly in the morning to receive its full benefit. In Ayurveda, swaras—the fresh juice of the herb—is considered the most potent form of intake. A small quantity taken daily can gently support mental clarity and nervous system balance over time. However, in cases of elevated Vata, it can be balanced by combining with warming or grounding herbs for optimal effect. 

This is not a herb of instant results. Mandukaparni works slowly, settling the mind, cooling the system, and inviting clarity.

Where to Find Mandukaparni Locally

There are local gardening groups around the Bay Area that carry this plant. Once potted in a wide container, it grows rapidly and can be transplanted with ease. With a little care and the right environment, Mandukaparni becomes not only a botanical ally but a quiet companion on your wellness journey.