Introduction
Reviews By Doctor
Dr. Sapna Kangotra
Dr. Meenu Kaushik
Dr. Megha Rathi
Dr. Nishant Bhardwaj
Dr. Ayush
Sarpagandha
Botanical Name: Rauvolfia serpentina
Family: Apocynaceae
Sarpagandha, commonly known as Indian Snakeroot, is a powerful medicinal plant used in Ayurveda for its calming and sedative properties. It is known for its long, snake-like roots, which contain reserpine alkaloids used in modern medicine for hypertension, anxiety, and insomnia.
Traditionally, Sarpagandha has been used to manage high blood pressure, anxiety, sleep disorders, fever, and digestive issues. It is also believed to help with snake bites, insect bites, malaria, epilepsy, and liver disorders. Due to its uterine stimulant properties, it is sometimes used to aid uterine contractions.
However, high doses or prolonged use of Sarpagandha can cause low blood pressure, slow heart rate (bradycardia), depression, and drowsiness. Hence, medical supervision is strongly recommended.
Benefits of Sarpagandha
1. Helps Reduce Anxiety & Stress
- Contains natural sedative compounds that help reduce anxiety symptoms.
- Beneficial in psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and personality disorders.
- Balances Vata dosha, which helps calm the nervous system.
2. Supports Hypertension Management (High Blood Pressure)
- Contains reserpine, which helps relax blood vessels and regulate blood pressure.
- Works as a natural antihypertensive by reducing heart rate and improving circulation.
- Balances Pitta dosha, which is responsible for blood pressure fluctuations.
3. Promotes Better Sleep (Insomnia Relief)
- Acts as a natural sleep aid by calming the nervous system.
- Enhances the effects of other sleep-inducing herbs like Valerian and Tinospora cordifolia.
- Its Nidrajanak (sleep-inducing) properties help people with chronic insomnia.
4. Aids Digestion and Relieves Constipation
- Has mild laxative properties that improve bowel movement.
- Helps detoxify the digestive system and prevent bloating.
5. Supports Fever Management
- Has antipyretic and detoxifying properties that help in fever reduction.
- Works by eliminating Ama (toxins) that cause fever and infections.
How to Use Sarpagandha?
1. Sarpagandha for Anxiety & Stress
- How to Use: Take 1 Sarpagandha tablet once or twice daily with water after meals.
2. Sarpagandha for Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
- How to Use: Take 1 Sarpagandha capsule with lukewarm water twice daily after meals.
3. Sarpagandha for Insomnia (Sleep Disorders)
- How to Use: Take 1 Sarpagandha capsule with milk before bedtime.
4. Sarpagandha for Constipation
- How to Use: Take Sarpagandha powder with warm water before bedtime.
5. Sarpagandha for Fever
- How to Use: Take Sarpagandha powder with lukewarm water twice daily.
Recommended Dosage of Ratanjot
Form | Dosage | Usage Instructions |
Sarpagandha Powder | 1-2g twice daily | Take with lukewarm water or milk after meals. |
Sarpagandha Tablet | 1 tablet twice daily | Swallow with lukewarm water after meals. |
Sarpagandha Capsule | 1 capsule twice daily | Swallow with lukewarm water after meals. |
Precautions
Who Should Avoid Sarpagandha?
- Pregnant & Breastfeeding Women: May cause uterine contractions, so avoid use.
- People with Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension): Sarpagandha reduces blood pressure, which may lead to dizziness or fainting.
- Patients on Antidepressants or Sedatives: Sarpagandha may increase drowsiness when taken with sedatives or antidepressants.
- Individuals with Bradycardia (Slow Heart Rate): May worsen symptoms by further slowing the heart rate.
- Long-Term Users: Prolonged use may cause depression or mood disorders.
General Safety Guidelines
- Always consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner before taking Sarpagandha.
- Do not exceed the recommended dosage to avoid side effects.
- Discontinue use if you experience dizziness, depression, or excessive drowsiness.
FAQs
1. Can Sarpagandha be taken daily?
Yes, but only under medical supervision, as long-term use may cause depression or low blood pressure.
2. Is Sarpagandha habit-forming?
No, Sarpagandha is not addictive, but prolonged use may cause dependence for sleep in some individuals.
3. Can Sarpagandha be used for snake bites?
Traditionally, Sarpagandha was used for snake bites, but modern medicine does not recommend it as a primary treatment. Seek immediate medical help in case of a snake bite.
4. Does Sarpagandha help with mental disorders?
Yes, Sarpagandha is known to calm the nervous system and may help in managing schizophrenia, anxiety, and personality disorders. However, it should be used under a doctor’s supervision.
5. Can Sarpagandha be used externally?
No, Sarpagandha is mainly used internally for its medicinal benefits.
Conclusion
Sarpagandha is a potent Ayurvedic herb used for hypertension, anxiety, insomnia, and fever. However, due to its powerful sedative and blood pressure-lowering effects, it must be used cautiously and under medical supervision.
References
- Sharma PV, Dravyaguna Vijnana, Vol. II, Chaukhambha Bharati Academy, Varanasi.
- Joshi H, Kaur R, Rauvolfia Serpentina: A Review on Its Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Aspects, Indian J Pharmacol, 2016.
- Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, Government of India, Ministry of AYUSH.
- J. Ethnopharmacol, Studies on Antihypertensive and Sedative Properties of Rauvolfia Serpentina, 2021.
- Research articles from NCBI, PubMed, and Ayurveda journals.
Reviews By Doctor
Dr. Sapna Kangotra
Dr. Meenu Kaushik
Dr. Megha Rathi
Dr. Nishant Bhardwaj
