Vol. 8, Issue 1, Part A (2026)

A crucial part of maintaining overall wellness is stress management, especially considering the relentless pace of modern lifestyles. Because of their ability to reduce stress, adaptogenic herbs like Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) and Mandukparni (Centella asiatica) have long been used in ancient healthcare practices like Ayurveda. This review explores the traditional use, pharmacological mechanisms, chemical composition, clinical effectiveness, and possible synergistic benefits of these two herbs in stress management. Centella asiatica has strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective qualities. It is well-known for its active ingredients, asiaticoside and madecassoside. These help it to improve cognitive abilities, lower cortisol levels, and control the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Clinical research supports its effectiveness in lowering anxiety and enhancing memory. Likewise, Bacopa monnieri, which has bacosides A and B, has neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. It affects the amounts of neurotransmitters, especially dopamine and serotonin, which lowers anxiety and elevates mood. Its benefits in reducing stress and improving cognitive function have been reported. The ability of both herbs to influence neurotransmitter systems, improve synaptic plasticity, and offer neuroprotection seems promising. When combined, their complimentary systems may have synergistic advantages that give a comprehensive approach to stress treatment. In order to fully investigate the clinical advantages of Mandukparni and Brahmi and to optimise their combined usage, more study is needed, since this work highlights their therapeutic potential in reducing stress.