Rauvolfia serpentina
Rauvolfia serpentina, also known as Indian Snakeroot or Sarpagandha, is a species of flowering plant in the family Apocynaceae. It is native to the Indian Subcontinent and East Asia (from India to Indonesia).
Description[edit | edit source]
The plant is a perennial, evergreen shrub that grows to about 1 meter in height. The leaves are arranged in whorls of three, each leaf being up to 7 cm long. The flowers are small, usually white in color, and are followed by small, red fruit.
Uses[edit | edit source]
Rauvolfia serpentina is used in traditional medicine in India, particularly in Ayurveda, where it is used to treat high blood pressure and mental disorders. It is also used in homeopathy.
Active Compounds[edit | edit source]
The plant contains several bioactive compounds, including reserpine, ajmaline, deserpidine, rescinnamine, serpentinine and yohimbine. Reserpine is used as an antihypertensive drug in allopathic medicine.
Cultivation[edit | edit source]
Rauvolfia serpentina prefers a tropical climate and is usually grown in well-drained soil in a sunny position. It is propagated by seeds or by root cuttings.
Conservation Status[edit | edit source]
The plant is listed as endangered by the IUCN due to overharvesting for its medicinal uses.
See Also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
