Introduction
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Shankhpushpi
Shankhpushpi
Botanical name: Convolvulus pluricaulis
Family: Convolvulaceae
Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis) is a well-known Ayurvedic herb used for its remarkable cognitive and therapeutic benefits. Revered as a Medhya Rasayana (brain tonic), it helps enhance memory, reduce stress, and support overall mental well-being. Additionally, its Rasayana (rejuvenating) properties make it beneficial for skin, hair, and digestive health.
Benefits of Shankhpushpi
1. Brain Health & Cognitive Function
- Enhances Memory & Concentration: Improves cognitive function due to its Medhya (intelligence-enhancing) properties.
- Reduces Stress & Anxiety: Has calming properties that help manage stress, anxiety, and nervousness.
- Promotes Restful Sleep: Aids in reducing insomnia by relaxing the mind.
- Supports ADHD Management: Improves focus and attention span in children with ADHD.
- Helps Prevent Seizures: Due to its neuroprotective effects, it may reduce the frequency of epileptic seizures.
2. Skin Health & Anti-Aging
- Prevents Wrinkles: Slows skin aging and reduces fine lines due to its Rasayana (rejuvenating) property.
- Treats Acne & Pimples: Regulates oil secretion and soothes inflammation.
- Heals Wounds & Sores: Aids in faster wound healing and soothes skin irritation.
3. Hair Care & Premature Greying Prevention
- Prevents Hair Fall: Strengthens hair roots and reduces hair thinning.
- Reduces Premature Greying: Nourishes the scalp and delays early greying.
4. Digestive Health & Metabolism
- Aids Digestion: Stimulates digestive enzymes and relieves indigestion, bloating, and constipation.
Supports Liver Health: Beneficial for conditions like jaundice and promotes liver detoxification.
How To Use Shankhpushpi?
1. Shankhpushpi Powder
- Take ¼ – ½ teaspoon twice daily with lukewarm milk or water.
- Helps in improving memory, concentration, and reducing stress.
- Can be mixed with honey and applied as a face pack for skin health.
2. Shankhpushpi Juice
- Consume 2 – 4 teaspoons once or twice daily with water.
- Supports brain function, relieves anxiety, and improves digestion.
3. Shankhpushpi Capsules/Tablets
- Take 1 – 2 capsules or tablets twice daily after meals.
- Helps enhance cognitive function, manage stress, and improve overall health.
4. Shankhpushpi Oil
- Massage a few drops onto the scalp and hair before sleep.
- Strengthens hair, reduces hair fall, and promotes relaxation.
5. Shankhpushpi Decoction for Wound Healing
- Boil ½ teaspoon powder in 2 cups of water until reduced to 1 cup.
- Cool and use as a wash for wounds or skin irritation.
6. Shankhpushpi Face Pack for Wrinkles & Acne
- Mix ½ teaspoon powder with honey, apply to the face, leave for 20 minutes, and rinse.
- Helps in reducing acne, wrinkles, and improving skin hydration.
Recommended Dosage of Shankhpushpi
Form | Dosage | Usage |
Shankhpushpi Powder | ¼ – ½ teaspoon twice daily | With milk or water |
Shankhpushpi Juice | 2 – 4 teaspoons twice daily | Mixed with water |
Shankhpushpi Capsules | 1 – 2 capsules twice daily | After meals |
Shankhpushpi Tablets | 1 – 2 tablets twice daily | After meals |
Shankhpushpi Oil | Few drops | Applied on scalp/hair |
Precautions
- Pregnancy & Lactation: Consult a healthcare professional before use.
- Low Blood Pressure: May cause a further drop in blood pressure due to its calming properties.
- Excessive Use: Overconsumption may cause nausea or digestive discomfort.
FAQs
1. Can Shankhpushpi be taken daily?
Yes, it is safe for daily consumption in recommended doses for cognitive and overall health benefits.
2. How long does it take to see results?
Cognitive benefits may be noticeable within a few weeks, while skin and digestive improvements may take a month or more.
3. Can children take Shankhpushpi?
Yes, in small doses, it can help improve focus and memory in children. However, consult a doctor before use.
4. Is Shankhpushpi good for anxiety?
Yes, it has natural calming properties that help reduce stress, anxiety, and restlessness.
5. Can Shankhpushpi be used for hair growth?
Yes, applying Shankhpushpi oil can nourish the scalp, reduce hair fall, and prevent premature greying.
Conclusion
Shankhpushpi is a versatile Ayurvedic herb that supports cognitive function, mental health, digestion, skin, and hair. Whether consumed as a powder, juice, capsule, or applied as an oil, it plays a crucial role in holistic wellness. Regular use in recommended doses can enhance memory, relieve stress, and rejuvenate the body naturally.
References
- Charaka Samhita – An ancient Ayurvedic text describing Arjuna’s benefits for cardiovascular health and blood purification.
- Sharma, P. V. (2014). Charaka Samhita (Text with English Translation). Chaukhambha Orientalia.
- Sushruta Samhita – Highlights the wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties of Arjuna bark.
- Tripathi, B. (2012). Sushruta Samhita (Ayurveda Tatva Sandipika Commentary). Chaukhambha Sanskrit Sansthan.
- Bhavaprakasha Nighantu – Describes Arjuna as a Hrudya (heart tonic) and Rakta Shodhaka (blood purifier).
- Chunekar, K. C. (2006). Bhavaprakasha Nighantu (Commentary by Pandit G. S. Pandey). Chaukhambha Bharati Academy.
- Pharmacological Studies on Arjuna
- Dwivedi, S. (2007). Terminalia arjuna Wight & Arn.: A useful drug for cardiovascular disorders. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 114(2), 114–129. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2007.08.017
- Arjuna’s Role in Blood Pressure & Cholesterol Management
- Bharani, A., Ganguli, A., & Mathur, L. K. (2002). Efficacy of Terminalia arjuna in chronic stable angina: A double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study. International Journal of Cardiology, 79(2-3), 141–149.
- Antioxidant & Anti-Inflammatory Properties
- Kapoor, M. P., Suzuki, K., & Banerjee, S. (2014). Terminalia arjuna: A review on its antioxidant and cardioprotective properties. Phytomedicine, 21(9), 1103–1110.
- Liver & Kidney Support
- Kaushik, A., Chauhan, N., & Nair, A. (2013). Hepatoprotective effect of Terminalia arjuna against carbon tetrachloride-induced liver toxicity in rats. Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine, 3(4), 283–287.
- Arjuna and Diabetes Management
- Gauthaman, K., & Maulik, N. (2011). Effects of Terminalia arjuna extract on blood glucose levels and lipid metabolism in diabetic rats. Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine, 8(1).
- Traditional and Modern Uses in Ayurveda
- Khanna, R., & Kannojia, P. (2020). A Review on Phytochemical and Pharmacological Aspects of Terminalia arjuna. Research Journal of Pharmacy and Technology, 13(5), 2437–2442.
- The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India
Government of India, Ministry of AYUSH. (2008). The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, Part I, Volume III.
Reviews By Doctor
Dr. Sapna Kangotra
Dr. Meenu Kaushik
Dr. Megha Rathi
Dr. Nishant Bhardwaj