Sarpagandha, which means snakeroot in Sanskrit, refers to the plant's twisted root, which resembles a snake. The root of this plant has been used in traditional and tribal medicine for many years. Sarpagandha produces alkaline reserpine, a compound that could be beneficial to the human body.
Sarpagandha is an Ayurvedic herbal medication used to treat excessive blood pressure and sleeplessness. Sarpagandha medication, derived from the root of the Indian Snakeroot plant, can be found between March and May in the Andaman Islands, north, south, and east India, as well as the Eastern and Western Ghats. Sarpagandha works best when combined with medicinal administration.
Let us now take a look at some the Top benefits that Sarpagandha has to offer.
Benefits of Sarpagandha
Sarpagandha benefits are enormous. Some of them are listed here below.
Cardiovascular Health
- Sarpagandha manages high blood pressure (hypertension) and heart-related problems
- Sarpagandha extract or Sarpagandha Vati (tablet form) can regulate heart rate and prevent arterial hardening
Menstrual Disorders
- Sarpagandha regulates menstruation and alleviates menstrual disorders such as pain, irregular cycles, and excessive or reduced bleeding
- Remedy: dried fruit powder mixed with black pepper and ginger
Sarpagandha for Better Sleep
- Sarpagandha is known as Nidra Janak (sleep generator)
- Improves sleep quality and reduces tension
- Effective for Vata Insomnia (difficulty falling asleep due to an active or anxious mind)
- Increases sleep duration and reduces daytime drowsiness
- Non-habit-forming (non-addictive)
Sarpagandha for Spasms
- Sarpagandha reduces leg muscle spasms
- Vasodilating properties ensure better blood circulation
- Can be used as painkillers
Sarpagandha for Anxiety
- Sarpagandha is prescribed to reduce anxiety
- Reduces adrenaline and noradrenaline in nerves, providing a tranquilizing effect
- Improves mental health and decreases insomnia
Neurological Disorders
- Sarpagandha manages mania, epilepsy, and insomnia
- Root powder helps calm the nervous system and promotes better sleep
Detoxification
- Sarpagandha purifies the body and eliminates toxins
Snakebites and Insect Bites
- Sarpagandha counteracts venom effects from snakebites and insect bites
- Crushed fresh leaves or powdered roots applied to the affected area
Sarpagandha for Hypertension
- Sarpagandha is used in Ayurvedic tablets for blood pressure
- Acts as a vasodilator to reduce blood vessel tone and blood pressure
- Reduces cholesterol and increases BMI
- Effective within 2-4 weeks of consumption; effects fade if the medicine is stopped after ~2 weeks
Respiratory Conditions
- Sarpagandha treats whooping cough (Kukkurkhansi) and bronchitis
- Consumed in powder form with honey to alleviate persistent coughing and breathing difficulties
Gastrointestinal Disorders
- Sarpagandha relieves stomach pain, indigestion, and constipation
- A decoction made from the root is recommended
Also Read : Panchatikta Ghrita Guggulu
How to Use Sarpagandha?
You can use Sarpagandha in the following forms.
- Sarpagandha is available in both powder and tablet form.
- Sarpagandha powder is produced by crushing the roots of the Sarpagandha plant (rauwolfia serpentina).
- Sarpagandha Ghan Vati is a famous Sarpagandha supplement that includes other helpful herbs that act in tandem to boost health.
- Sarpagandha pills are designed to address particular issues such as lack of sleep, anxiety, and high blood pressure.
Dosage
It is usually suggested to take Sarpagandha according to your body type, age, gender, and any physical ailments you have. If you have any negative effects, you should discontinue the therapy immediately. You should see a doctor before taking this medicine.
Precautions for Rauvolfia Serpentina Plant
Diabetes
- Monitor blood sugar levels if diabetic.
- Can reduce blood sugar levels too low
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
- Avoid consumption during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Can cause birth defects and harm the baby through breast milk.
Gallstones
- Avoid if you have gallstones.
- Can worsen gallstone conditions.
Depression
- Avoid if you have a history of depression.
- May trigger or worsen depression.
Allergies to Reserpine
- Avoid if allergic to reserpine (found in Serpasil).
- Reserpine-rich plant extracts may cause allergic reactions.
Stomach Ulcers
- Avoid if you have stomach ulcers or other stomach issues.
- Can worsen these conditions.
During Surgery
- Stop medication at least 2 weeks before surgery.
- Can interfere with blood pressure and heart rate.
Also Read : Agnitundi Vati Benefits
Conclusion
History has repeatedly demonstrated that Ayurvedic remedies, such as the Sarpagandha herb, may treat more than one common condition. These natural cures are excellent alternatives to chemicals and commercially manufactured medications, which may cause more damage than benefit in the long term.
However, whether using Ayurvedic or other pharmaceuticals, it is critical to remember to visit a doctor before beginning any drug regimen. We may be aware of the advantages of a medicine when taken alone, but we may be unaware of the potential side effects when combined with other medications.