Rauwolfia Serpentine - Benefits of Herbs
Sarpagandha ranks first among all the contributions by India to the modern medical world.
It has been used in the ancient system of medicine for the treatment of insomnia, hyper irritability and insanity. Research workers have discovered that it is highly effective in the treatment of hypertension.
Sarpagandha is available in the form of roots. It is the root of Sarpagandha that is used and its powder is used in dose of 4-6 rattis (8 to 12 grains). It has a quick effect on high blood pressure and it keeps the high blood pressure under control. A noteworthy feature is that it never lowers the blood pressure below the right limit.
It has a bitter taste, so it is made in the form of tablets and 1 to 2 tablets after the principal meals and one at bedtime are given in cases of high blood pressure. It induces sound sleep.
It relieves tension, anxiety and worry and fat people especially find it effective. Whenever a patient is extremely irritable and is behaving in an unruly manner, Sarpagandha has been found effective. However, it should be used with great care in the case of the debilitated, or those habitually depressed.
It relieves constipation in the case of patients suffering from hypertension as also headache. While it is used, a little chill or cold, and sometimes sneezing, may be observed in some cases.
In the case of gonorrhoea, when there is a burning sensation and pain while passing urine, and sleep is disturbed, if this medicine is given, it induces sound sleep at the same time reducing pain. It is equally useful for males as well as for females.
In the konkan area people are sometimes bitten by the snake called purusha, and a massive dose of 1-2 tolas 910-20 grams) of sarpagandha powder is given with water. A paste prepared by rubbing the root in water is also applied on the affected portion.
It is given to women during certain stages of labour to increase the contraction of the uterus. It is a uterine stimulant.
