Introduction:
Sarpagandha or Indian Snakeroot is an effective medicinal herb in traditional medicines. It is one of the most famous herbs in Ayurveda due to its powerful medicinal values to treat various diseases. The root of Sarpagandha has been used as an effective remedy for hypertension since ancient times. The root of this plant is similar to a snake, so it is called a snakeroot.
Medicinal Properties of Sarpagandha
- Anti-inflammatory
- Anti-anxiety
- Antimicrobial
- Antidiuretic
- Antifungal
- Antihypertensive
- Anti-proliferative
- Antipsychotic
- Anthelmintic
- Anticholinergic
- Sedative
- Hypnotic
Medicinal uses:
Blood pressure:
Sarpagandha root powder is an effective remedy to decrease and control high blood pressure. The alkaloid present in Sarpagandha root contains Reserpine that has sedative effects. It helps to effectively reduce the level of catecholamines in the heart and androgenic nerves.
Antioxidant properties:
It has many antioxidants that fight damage caused by free radicals.
Fights insomnia:
The hypnotic properties of Sarpagandha help to stimulate sleep. There are two types of insomnia, such as short-term and chronic.
Fights dysmenorrhea:
Sarpagandha is an effective remedy to decrease pain during menstrual periods. It decreases cramps and throbbing pain by regulating the blood flow during the menstrual period. The analgesic property of Sarpagandha works significantly to reduce pain.
Treats Gastro-intestinal problems:
Sarpagandha contains effective properties, acidic smell, strong bitter taste, so it helps to treat gastrointestinal diseases like anorexia, worms, and abdominal pain.
Treats mental disorders:
Due to the antipsychotic, anti-anxiety, hypnotic, and sedative properties, Sarpagandha helps to treat various diseases such as sleeplessness, aggression, running, beating, crying, etc.
Controls Diabetes:
According to studies, Sarpagandha not only treats diabetes and also treats many diseases. The hypoglycemic properties of Sarpagandha help to reduce the level of blood sugar. Sarpagandha also used to reduce blood glucose levels by decreasing body weight and sugar levels in hemoglobin.
Controls fever:
Sarpagandha is a perfect remedy for treating and preventing fever and disorders associated with fever. The alkaloids compound present in Sarpagandha helps to cure high-grade fever effectively.
Prevents heart diseases:
According to studies, the extract of Sarpagandha helps to prevent coronary artery disease and decreases angina symptoms.
Treats Dysentery and Cholera:
Sarpagandha helps to reduce dysentery and cures constipation that occurs due to headaches and hypertension. Sarpagandha contains effective anti-microbial and antifungal properties that help to treat cholera.
Treats snakebites:
Sarpagandha is an effective remedy for treating snakebites in Ayurveda. Not only for snakebites but also treats various insect bites, and animal bites.
Cancer therapy:
Sarpagandha decreases the symptoms of breast cancer in many patients due to its powerful medicinal values.
Side effects of Sarpagandha:
- Loss of Appetite
- Stuffy nose or Nasal Congestion
- Diarrhea
- Swelling of lower legs
- Dryness of the mouth
- Nausea & vomiting
Sarpagandha alkaloids can cause the following side effects.
- Impotence in men
- Mental depression
- Abdominal pain
- Blood in vomiting
- Headache
- Slow heartbeat
- Itching
- Trembling
- Bruising
- Chest pain
- Early morning sleeplessness
- Dizziness
- Skin Rash
- Irregular heartbeat
- Black or tarry stools
- Faintness or Drowsiness
- Reduced attention span
- Shortness of breath
- Difficult or painful urination
- Stiffness
- Nervousness
- Feeling of weakness or loss of energy
- Nasal congestion
- Hypersensitivity
Sarpagandha should be best avoided during pregnancy and lactation.
Conclusion:
Sarpagandha has been used in Ayurveda for thousands of years. It has also been extensively researched. It is best to start using this amazing medicine after consulting your healthcare provider.