Updated: January 3, 2023

Sarpagandha, or Rauwolfia serpentina, is a perennial flowering shrub native to India and parts of Asia. The plant has been used in traditional Indian Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. It has also been studied for its potential to treat certain conditions, such as high blood pressure, insomnia, and anxiety. In this article, we will discuss the five Sarpagandha plant benefits and answer some frequently asked questions about the herb.

Sarpagandha Plant Benefits

Reduces High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure puts strain on the heart and can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. Studies have found that Sarpagandha plant extract can help reduce high blood pressure by relaxing the smooth muscle tissues in the walls of arteries and veins. This helps improve blood flow and reduces resistance to arterial pressure.

Improves Cognitive Function

Sarpagandha extract has been found to improve cognitive function in animals. A study found that rats given Sarpagandha extract showed improved memory, learning ability, and motor coordination compared to rats given a placebo. Further studies are required to understand how Sarpagandha could be used to improve cognitive function in humans.

Treats Insomnia

Insomnia is a condition characterized by difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. Studies have found that Sarpagandha extract can help reduce the symptoms of insomnia by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. It has also been found to reduce the amount of time it takes to fall asleep and improve overall sleep quality.

Reduces Anxiety

Sarpagandha has been studied for its potential to reduce anxiety levels. A study found that patients with generalized anxiety disorder who were given Sarpagandha extract had significantly reduced anxiety levels compared to those given a placebo. Further research is needed to understand how Sarpagandha could be used to treat other forms of anxiety.

Promotes Relaxation

Sarpagandha contains compounds that can help promote relaxation and reduce stress levels. Studies have found that taking Sarpagandha extract can help reduce cortisol levels, which is a hormone associated with stress. This helps promote relaxation and improves overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sarpagandha Plants

What Is the Recommended Dosage?

The recommended dosage of Sarpagandha depends on the condition being treated and the individual’s health profile. It is best to consult with your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional before taking any supplement containing Sarpagandha extract.

Are There Any Side Effects?

Some people may experience mild side effects when taking Sarpagandha extract, such as nausea, dizziness, dry mouth, or fatigue. In rare cases, more serious side effects such as confusion, low blood pressure, or breathing problems may occur. If you experience any side effects while taking Sarpagandha extract, stop taking it immediately and consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional.

Is It Safe To Take During Pregnancy?

It is not recommended to take Sarpagandha extract during pregnancy due to lack of research on its safety during this time. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is best to consult with your doctor or qualified healthcare professional before taking any supplements containing Sarpagandha extract.

Can I Take It With Other Medications?

It is not recommended to take Sarpagandha extract with other medications without consulting your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional first as it can interact with some medications.

Where Can I Buy It?

Sarpagandha extract is available at health food stores and online retailers as a supplement in capsule or tablet form. However, it is important to ensure that you buy from a reputable source as some products may contain contaminants or not contain the stated amount of active ingredients on the label.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Sarpagandha is an ancient herb with many potential health benefits including reducing high blood pressure, improving cognitive function, treating insomnia, reducing anxiety, and promoting relaxation. However, further research is needed to fully understand how this herb can be used for medicinal purposes and more information is needed about its safety during pregnancy and when taken with other medications.