Sarpagandha

Sarpagandha is a famous ayurvedic herb used for hypertension (high blood pressure) management. Its root powder (called Sarpagandha Churna) is usually best for using in hypertension than its extract or derivatives to minimize its side effects and increase its effectiveness for long-standing action. It is also used for insomnia (sleeplessness), mental disorders characterized by symptoms like convulsions, excessive talking, maniacal behavior, aggressive behavior etc. 

The Botanical Name — Rauwolfia Serpentina

Medicinal Parts —

Sarpagandha roots are used for the medicinal purposes. Its roots contain the highest amount of active substances, which are beneficial as anti-anxiety, sedative, antihypertensive, and relaxing effects.

The Therapeutic Indications —

1. Insomnia
2. Epilepsy
3. Intestinal Worms
4. Hypertension — High Blood Pressure
5. Dysmenorrhea
6. High-Grade Fever – it reduces fever and feeling of restlessness and discomfort
7. Snakebite
8. Abdominal Pain due to constipation
9. Uncontrollable outburst of fear or emotions
10. Headache
11. Hiccup
12. Whooping Cough
13. Asthma
14. Diarrhea
15. Dysentery
16. Hangover due to excess alcohol intake
17. Uterine Pain due to or after miscarriage

Dosage & Administration —

The general dosage of Rauwolfia Serpentina Root Powder (Sarpagandha Churna) is as follows.

1. Children — 100 mg to 300 mg 
2. Adults — 200 mg to 600 mg

Adjuvants — Cow’s Milk, Rose Distillate (Gulab Arq), or Water
Timing — Twice or Thrice day. After Food

Side Effects of Sarpagandha —

Sarpagandha can cause following side effects:

• Stuffy nose or Nasal Congestion (Most Common)
• Dryness of the mouth (Most Common)
• Loss of Appetite
• Diarrhea
• Nausea & vomiting
• Swelling of lower legs or feet

Overdose Symptoms

The overdose of Sarpagandha can cause following unwanted effects:

• Heating sensation in the body
• Slow heart rate
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness

Pregnancy —

Sarpagandha is likely unsafe during pregnancy because it can pass through the placental barrier and cause unwanted effects and birth defects. In pregnant women, it can cause Loss of appetite and breathing difficulties. 

Lactation —

The alkaloids of Sarpagandha may also pass into the breastmilk.

It can cause following side effects in breastfeeding infant.

• Loss of appetite
• Breathing troubles
• Low body temperature

Contraindications —

Sarpagandha should not be used in the following health conditions:

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease – ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease
• Bradycardia (slow heartbeat)
• Gastritis (alone should not be used.)
• Peptic Ulcers
• Depression
• Parkinsonism