Rauvolfia Serpentina/Indian Snake Root(Chandan Booti/Asrol) چھوٹی چندن

Overview

Rauvolfia Serpentina, the Indian snakeroot, devil pepper, or serpentine wood, is a species of flower in the milkweed family Apocynaceae. It is native to the Indian subcontinent and East Asia. Rauvolfia is a perennial undershrub widely distributed in India in the sub-Himalayan regions up to 1,000 metres.  Indian snakeroot is used for mild high blood pressure, nervousness, trouble sleeping (insomnia), and mental disorders such as agitated psychosis and insanity. Indian snakeroot is also used for snake and reptile bites, fever, constipation, feverish intestinal diseases, liver ailments, achy joints (rheumatism), fluid retention (edema), epilepsy, and as a tonic for general debilities.

Benefits

Here are some potential benefits associated with Sarphagandha:

Antihypertensive Properties:

One of the well-known uses of Sarphagandha is its potential to lower blood pressure. The alkaloid reserpine found in the plant has been historically used to treat hypertension. It works by depleting certain neurotransmitters in the brain, resulting in a reduction in sympathetic nervous system activity and vasodilation.

Sedative and Anxiolytic Effects:

Sarphagandha has been traditionally used as a sedative and to manage conditions related to stress and anxiety. Its calming properties may be attributed to the presence of alkaloids, including reserpine, which can have a central nervous system depressant effect.

Insomnia Management:

Due to its sedative effects, Sarphagandha has been used to help manage insomnia and improve sleep quality. It may be used in traditional formulations to promote relaxation and induce sleep.

Traditional Uses in Ayurveda:

Sarphagandha has a history of use in Ayurvedic medicine for various conditions, including mental disorders, snakebites (as an antidote), and as a diuretic.

Potential Antiarrhythmic Properties:

Some research suggests that Sarphagandha may have antiarrhythmic effects, meaning it could help regulate abnormal heart rhythms. This property has been explored in traditional medicine contexts.

Adaptogenic Properties:

Sarphagandha is sometimes considered an adaptogen, which means it may help the body adapt to stressors and maintain balance. This adaptogenic potential is often attributed to its ability to influence the sympathetic nervous system.