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Written By: Admin | Updated : May 22, 2014 4:40 PM IST
Traditional medicine practitioners have used Sarpagandha or Rauwolfia in treating insomnia, snakebite and insanity. But in 1931, G. Sen and K.C Bose briefly described the potential effect of Rauwolfia in treating hypertension. Rauwolfia is actually the first Ayurvedic herb recognized by Western medicine.
But how does the herb actually helps reduce blood pressure?
It was identified that Rauwolfia had the ability to reduce blood pressure due to the presence of an alkaloid called reserpine in its roots. Pharmacologists successfully extracted this alkaloid from the plant, making it the first potent herbal treatment for hypertension.
Read more about causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of hypertension.
Mechanism of action of resperine
Certain brain chemicals like dopamine, adrenaline and noradrenaline are released in the blood stream under physical and emotional stress. These chemicals cause constriction of blood vessels and lead to increased blood pressure, heart rate and metabolism. Now, reserpine acts by reducing the levels of these hormones in the blood stream. This lowers the heart rate and causes the blood vessels to dilate, reducing pressure on the walls of the blood vessels.
How should it be taken?
Sarpagandha is available in powdered and tablet forms. But because of its potent action it should be under the supervision of a doctor. The dose of Sarpagandha you need depends on your age and other health conditions you may be suffering from. Most clinical studies that analysed the effect of Sarpagandha used the dose range between 120 mg and 600 to 900 mg and found it to be safe. But overdose can be dangerous. Here are some side-effects of Sarphagandha you should know:
Serious side effects include:
Image source: Rauwolfia serpentina (importantmedicinalherbs.in)
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