Sarpagandha, known by its scientific name Rauwolfia Serpentina, is a name familiar to doctors across Ayurveda, allopathy, and homeopathy alike, and one that continues to draw the attention of researchers the world over, with studies on it constantly ongoing. Few medicinal plants — perhaps only neem, turmeric, and amla — have earned this level of recognition.
It is said that snakes do not go near this plant; since it is believed to trouble and drive snakes away, it is known as “Sarpagandha”. Among its various Sanskrit names is “Dhavalvitap” — the plant that purifies the mind and body, making the body “dhaval” (pure/fair). It is also called “Chandramar” for its quality of calming intense mental agitation.
The Sarpagandha plant grows one to three feet tall. Its leaves are dark green on the upper side and pale green underneath, and its flowers form attractive white-pink clusters. It is especially recognised by its fruit — small, dark reddish berries resembling peas. Mainly its root is used medicinally, which is odourless but extremely bitter.
Sarpagandha is found all over India. Even so, the compound “Serpentine” extracted from it has long been used worldwide in the manufacture of high blood pressure medication, which is why this herb remains important and is in growing demand everywhere.
Properties (Gunakarma): Dry, bitter, and pungent in post-digestive effect, Sarpagandha is hot in potency, and its special effect (prabhava) is to induce sleep.
Being hot, it pacifies Kapha and Vata. It induces sleep, and calms overstimulation of the nervous system as well as agitation originating in the brain.
Because Sarpagandha is heating, it increases Pitta, so it should be given to people of Pitta constitution, in the hot season, and to patients with Pitta-type disorders only with the appropriate accompanying substance (anupana) and formulation.
Since Sarpagandha is directly linked to blood pressure, using it on one’s own — the way one might with other herbal remedies — can be risky in any circumstance.
Sarpagandha is given to patients with Unmada (insanity/psychosis) and Apasmara (epilepsy) who become highly agitated. It gradually calms their mind, and brain-related disorders are cured at the root. Although it induces sleep, unlike other sedative medications it does not cause dependency or side effects. Because it is so essential and effective in curing insanity, it has even been called the root remedy for madness.
Though after some time the Ayurvedic medicine too can be stopped altogether, and one can indeed be freed from the lifelong dependence on BP tablets. Another point worth noting is that it would not be quite accurate to say Sarpagandha simply “lowers” blood pressure — rather, it regulates elevated blood pressure, meaning it brings it to a stop at the normal level.
To get the best benefit from Sarpagandha, the roots of a plant that is 3-4 years old should be harvested along with the bark in the autumn season (Sharad Ritu), and this same stock should be used through the year.
Because Sarpagandha is directly linked to blood pressure, it should never be taken on one’s own — one should follow a qualified Ayurvedic physician’s advice. These days, various self-styled gurus at yoga camps casually tell everyone to regularly take two tablets of Sarpagandha Ghanvati without any proper examination. Because of this, the medicine sells in huge quantities, but the results are often nil. Sarpagandha should not be self-administered — that, in a single line, is the point to remember.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Sarpagandha (Rauwolfia Serpentina) famous for?
Sarpagandha has proven to be a highly effective remedy for high blood pressure — the active compound found in it has long been used worldwide in the manufacture of blood-pressure medication.
What are Sarpagandha’s other properties?
Sarpagandha induces sleep, calms overstimulation of the nervous system, and soothes agitation originating in the brain.
Should Sarpagandha be taken on one’s own?
No — since Sarpagandha is directly linked to blood pressure, taking Sarpagandha Ghanvati handed out at yoga camps or elsewhere without a proper medical examination should be avoided; it should be used only under a qualified physician’s advice and supervision.
Dr. Nikul Patel (B.A.M.S.)
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