Indian traditional medicine has used the root of the rauwolfia plant since ancient times to calm nervousness and as an antidote against snake and spider bites. Modern pharmaceutical research has discovered valuable active components against high blood pressure in this plant, which is currently used in several pharmaceutical preparations.
- SECRET INDIAN REMEDY – Rauwolfia has been used since at least 1000 BC in the natural health traditions of East Asia and Indian Ayurveda. Unlike other brands on the market, rauwolfia drops do not contain any fillers or injurious derivatives. Heavenly herbals provide only powerful and pure ingredients in each product.
Healing Properties and Warning
The root of the rauwolfia plant contains twenty different types of alkaloids, the most important of which is reserpine. It has hypotensive and nervous system sedative properties, all due to its depressive action on the subcortex and thalamic centers of the brain.
Rauwolfia is highly effective in treating arterial hypertension, a common disease in the First World. It also renders good results in persistent insomnia, psychosis, and other mental disorders. Another alkaloid of rauwolfia is ajmaline, which has anti-arrhythmia properties.
WARNING! Reserpine in rauwolfia is a very active alkaloid; thus, the plant and its extracts must be used under medical supervision.
Rauwolfia Plant Scientific Facts
- French: Arbre aux serpents, rauwolfia.
- Spanish: Rauwolfia.
- Environment: It is native to the tropical regions of Asia, especially India, where it is farmed for medicinal purposes. At present, it is also cultivated in Central America.
- Description: This shrub of the Apocynaceae family grows up to one meter high. Its leaves have pinned ends, and white or pink flowers grow in umbels.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally: The root.
How to use Rauwolfia
- Root powder: The medium dose is 100-200 mg twice daily. It should be taken dissolved in a gulp of water. The maximum dose is one gram a day.
- Pharmaceutical preparations based on rauwolfia. These medicines indicate the recommended dose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the rauwolfia plant help with conditions beyond hypertension?
Possibly. Early research suggests the potential for rauwolfia in managing anxiety disorders and schizophrenia due to its calming effects.
How does the rauwolfia plant compare to modern blood pressure medications?
It’s less favorable in general. Rauwolfia, especially in the form of whole root extract, can have significant side effects like depression, sedation, and stomach upset. Modern medications are often more effective with fewer adverse effects.
Are there specific forms of the rauwolfia plant that are safer?
Potentially. Isolated reserpine (an active component of rauwolfia) may be better tolerated than whole-plant preparations. Always consult a doctor before using any form of Rauwolfia.
Can the rauwolfia plant interact negatively with other medications?
Yes, significantly. Rauwolfia can interfere with medications for depression, heart conditions, Parkinson’s disease, and others.
Crucial: Disclose all medications and supplements to your doctor before considering Rauwolfia.
Are there any populations that should avoid rauwolfia?
Yes. Individuals with a history of depression, stomach ulcers, Parkinson’s disease, ulcerative colitis, breast cancer, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding should entirely refrain from using rauwolfia.
Does the rauwolfia plant have a role in managing insomnia?
Potentially, but with caution. Rauwolfia’s sedative effect may aid sleep in some individuals. However, it can worsen depression and is not a reliable or recommended sleep aid.
Are there any proven benefits of rauwolfia for cognitive function?
Unclear. Limited, very early studies hint at potential benefits for memory and thinking, but robust human research is lacking.
How is rauwolfia typically dosed?
Dosage varies widely and requires physician guidance. Dosing depends on the form (whole root vs. isolated reserpine), the treated condition, and individual factors. Self-dosing is strongly discouraged.
Where can I find reliable information on rauwolfia’s side effects?
Reputable medical websites:
1. Mayo Clinic https://mayoclinic.org
2. WebMD https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Can rauwolfia be used long-term?
It is usually discouraged. Extended use of rauwolfia is typically discouraged because of the risk of severe adverse effects, especially when safer options are available.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. vols. 1 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 242. Print.
- National Institutes of Health (NIH) – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
- Mayo Clinic https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/home-remedies-controlling-and-managing-your-blood-pressure/
- National Center for Complementary & Integrative Health (NCCIH) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6464022/
- WebMD https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4566472/
- Mount Sinai Health System https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/rauwolfia-alkaloid-oral-route/before-using/drg-20069510
- NIH: NCCIH https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6464022/
- ResearchGate https://www.researchgate.net/publication/342672488_Reserpine
Last update on 2024-04-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API