Sarpagandha
Sarpagandha
Sarpagandha is also known as ‘Indian snakeroot’, ‘Chandrabhaga’ or ‘Chhota Chandis’. It is an important medicinal plant distributed in the foot-hills of the Himalayan range. It has long tapering snake-like roots which are a rich source of reserpine alkaloids. This alkaloid is used in the manufacture of anti-hypertensive and sedative medicines[1]. The roots are also used in Ayurvedic and other systems of medicines for curing a wide range of ailments.
The plant is used in the treatment of hypertension, anxiety, and insomnia. In the traditional medicinal system, it is also used orally for snake bites, insect bites, fever, constipation, and malaria. It is also considered useful in treating liver disease, rheumatoid arthritis, edema, and epilepsy. Along with that, it also acts as a uterine stimulant which helps the uterus to contract.
In some cases, oral intake of Indian snakeroot may cause some side effects due to the presence of small amounts of harmful elements (like yohimbine)[2]. Most adverse effects with the use of Sarpagandha appear to be mild. Higher doses can cause cardiovascular side effects including bradycardia (slower than normal heart rate) and hypotension (low blood pressure). Also, its long-term use may cause depression in some people[2,3].
The plant is used in the treatment of hypertension, anxiety, and insomnia. In the traditional medicinal system, it is also used orally for snake bites, insect bites, fever, constipation, and malaria. It is also considered useful in treating liver disease, rheumatoid arthritis, edema, and epilepsy. Along with that, it also acts as a uterine stimulant which helps the uterus to contract.
In some cases, oral intake of Indian snakeroot may cause some side effects due to the presence of small amounts of harmful elements (like yohimbine)[2]. Most adverse effects with the use of Sarpagandha appear to be mild. Higher doses can cause cardiovascular side effects including bradycardia (slower than normal heart rate) and hypotension (low blood pressure). Also, its long-term use may cause depression in some people[2,3].
What are the synonyms of Sarpagandha?
Rauwolfia Serpentina, Chandra, Chandrika, Chota-Chand, Pagla-Ka-Dawa, Patalagandhi, SnakeRoot, Snakewood
What is the source of Sarpagandha?
Plant Based
Benefits of Sarpagandha
Modern Science View
Anxiety is a feeling of stress, nervousness, restlessness, or tension. Preliminary research on Sarpagandha or Indian snakeroot has shown that extracts of the plant may reduce symptoms of anxiety in patients with various psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia, personality disorders, and psychoneurotic disorders. However, more studies and conclusive data are required to guide its beneficial use in such cases[4].
Ayurvedic View
Sarpagandha is useful in managing the symptoms of anxiety. According to Ayurveda, Vata governs all the movements of the body and functions of the nervous system. Anxiety is mainly caused due to Vata imbalance. Sarpagandha helps reduce the symptoms of anxiety due to its Vata balancing property.
Tip
-Take 1 Sarpagandha tablet once or twice a day or as directed by the physician
-Have it with normal water preferably after meals
#To get quick control of the symptoms of anxiety.
Tip
-Take 1 Sarpagandha tablet once or twice a day or as directed by the physician
-Have it with normal water preferably after meals
#To get quick control of the symptoms of anxiety.
Modern Science View
Hypertension is a condition which causes a rise in blood pressure above normal levels. Early clinical research shows that Sarpagandha or Indian snakeroot due to the presence of certain constituents (like reserpine) helps in controlling high blood pressure[5]. However, more evidence is needed to rate the effectiveness of Sarpagandha in such cases.
Modern Science View
Insomnia is a sleep disorder. People with insomnia find difficulty in sleeping even when they are tired. Sarpagandha or Indian snakeroot when used with other herbal ingredients (valerian and Tinospora Cordifolia) is found to be useful in the treatment of insomnia. However, its use in treating the condition alone is not known[4].
Ayurvedic View
Sarpagandha is considered useful in inducing sound sleep. According to Ayurveda, an aggravated Vata dosha disturbs the nervous system which leads to Anidra (insomnia). Sarpagandha calms the nervous system due to its Nidrajanak (sleep-inducing) nature and helps promote sound sleep.
Tip
-Take 1 Sarpagandha capsule or as directed by the physician
-Have it with milk before sleeping
#To get sound sleep at night
Tip
-Take 1 Sarpagandha capsule or as directed by the physician
-Have it with milk before sleeping
#To get sound sleep at night
Modern Science View
Constipation is a condition where you may have fewer than 3 bowel movements a week. The roots of the plant Sarpagandha or Indian snakeroot show some laxative properties which can help in providing relief from constipation[8].
Modern Science View
Fever is characterized as a rise in body temperature above 100°F. It is often considered a sign of the body fighting against any infection.
Ayurvedic View
Sarpagndha due to its beneficial properties can help reduce fever. According to Ayurveda, accumulation of Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) in the body may sometimes also cause fever. The Ushna (hot) property of Sarpagandha reduces Ama which helps in reducing fever.
How effective is Sarpagandha?
Insufficient evidence
Anxiety, Constipation, Fever, Hypertension (high blood pressure), Insomnia
FAQs about Sarpagandha benefits
Precautions when using Sarpagandha
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
It is advisable to avoid taking Sarpagandha during breastfeeding. Studies state that reserpine alkaloids appear to cross the placenta and are excreted in breast milk which might be harmful to the baby[6].
Patients with diabetes
Modern Science View
Sarpagandha or Indian snakeroot may affect sugar levels and cause a drop in blood sugar levels. It might cause sugar levels to go too low if taken with other diabetes medicines[5].
Pregnancy
Modern Science View
Enough scientific information is not available to suggest its use during pregnancy. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid its use[6].
FAQs about Sarpagandha precautions
Recommended Dosage of Sarpagandha
- Sarpagandha Tablet - 1 tablet twice a day or as directed by the physician
- Sarpagandha Powder - 1-2gm or as directed by the physician
- Sarpagandha Capsule - 1 capsule twice a day or as directed by the physician
How to use Sarpagandha
Sarpagandha Powder
-Take 1-2gm Sarpagandha powder or as directed by the physician
-Mix it with lukewarm water or milk and take it twice a day after meals
Sarpagandha Vati
-Take 1 Sarpagandha tablet/Vati or as directed by the physician
-Swallow it with lukewarm water twice a day after meals
Sarpagandha Capsule
-Take 1 Sarpagandha capsule twice a day or as directed by the physician
-Swallow it with lukewarm water twice a day after meals
-Take 1-2gm Sarpagandha powder or as directed by the physician
-Mix it with lukewarm water or milk and take it twice a day after meals
Sarpagandha Vati
-Take 1 Sarpagandha tablet/Vati or as directed by the physician
-Swallow it with lukewarm water twice a day after meals
Sarpagandha Capsule
-Take 1 Sarpagandha capsule twice a day or as directed by the physician
-Swallow it with lukewarm water twice a day after meals
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Individuals experiencing stomach ulcers should avoid the use of Sarpagandha or Indian snakeroot as it could make stomach ulcers worse[5].
Modern Science View
Use of Sarpagandha or Indian snakeroot should be avoided if you have low blood pressure. This is because the herb may lower blood pressure even further[5].
Modern Science View
Individuals should consult their physician if they are taking other medications to avoid any counter-interaction with the medicine.
Modern Science View
Studies on Sarpagandha indicate sedative and drowsy effects. Combining it with alcohol can cause additive sedation, therefore avoid concomitant use[7].
Modern Science View
Sarpagandha or Indian snakeroot contains active components which help manage diabetes and its related complications[9]. However, patients on diabetic medication should consult their doctor before taking Sarpagandha or Indian snakeroot. It might cause sugar levels to go too low if taken with other antidiabetic medicines.
Ayurvedic View
Sarpagandha herb can provide aid in managing normal blood sugar levels in diabetic patients. In Ayurveda diabetes also known as Madhumeha, is due to an aggravation of Vata and impaired digestion. Impaired digestion leads to an accumulation of Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) in the pancreatic cells and impairs the function of insulin. Taking Sarpagandha helps correct impaired digestion due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) nature. This reduces Ama and improves the function of insulin. This thus helps control high blood sugar levels.
Modern Science View
Long-term use of Sarpagandha or Indian snakeroot may cause depression. Other than that, it may cause symptoms like nasal congestion, changes in appetite and weight, nightmares, drowsiness, and loose stools[5].
Modern Science View
Enough evidence is not available to suggest the use of Sarpagandha for kidney functions.
Modern Science View
Enough evidence is not available to suggest that sudden discontinuation of Sarpagandha can lead to anxiety, depression and insomnia. Usually, Ayurvedic medicines do not cause immediate withdrawal symptoms. However, if you experience any such symptoms, do consult your doctor.
References
- CSIR. Sarpagandha
- Sheldon MB, Kotte JH. Effect of Rauwolfia serpentina and reserpine on the blood pressure in essential hypertension; a long-term double-blind study. Circulation. 1957 Aug;16(2):200-6.
- Vakil RJ. A clinical trial of Rauwolfia serpentina in essential hypertension. Br Heart J. 1949 Oct;11(4):350-5.
- TRC. Natural Medicine. Indian Snakeroot.
- WebMD. Indian Snakeroot
- Briggs GB, Freeman RK, Yaffe SJ. Drugs in Pregnancy and Lactation. 5th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 1998.
- Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C. PDR for Herbal Medicines. 1st ed. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc., 1998.
- Choudhary P, Singh R and Goswami P. Magical power of medicinal plant: The Sarpagandha. RASHTRIYA KRISHI Volume 13 Issue 2 December, 2018.
- Pathania S, Randhawa V, and Bagler G. Prospecting for Novel Plant-Derived Molecules of Rauvolfia serpentina as Inhibitors of Aldose Reductase, a Potent Drug Target for Diabetes and Its Complications. PLoS One. 2013; 8(4): e61327.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.