Shankhpushpi (Shankhapushpi (Shankhahva, Mangalyakusuma))
Medically Reviewed by Ayuveda Clinical Team (Lead Medical Reviewer: Dr. Nitin Mohite, BAMS, MBA • Medical Logic Developer, UK • Clinical Profile • LinkedIn).
About
Shankhpushpi is an herb used in Ayurvedic medicine, known for its cognitive benefits and ability to alleviate mental disorders.
Botanical name: Convolvulus pluricaulis. Also known as: Shankhavali, Mangalyapushpi, Kshirapushpi.
Properties
Enhances cholinergic transmission, Upregulates acetylcholine levels in the brain, Improves synaptic plasticity, Reduces cortisol levels, Antioxidant activity, Neuroprotective activity, Immunomodulatory properties
Dosage
Powder (Churna): 2-5 g once or twice daily. Tablets/Capsules: 250-500 mg twice daily. Syrup: 5-10 ml twice daily. Juice (Kashayam): 2-4 teaspoons once or twice daily. Dosage may vary based on individual health conditions and should be taken under the supervision of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner.
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Bitter, Astringent
- Virya: ["Cooling"]
- Vipaka: ["Sweet"]
Benefits
- Medhya
- Rasayana
- Nidrajanana
- Shothahara
- Vishahara
Traditional uses
- Smriti-daurbalya (Memory impairment)
- Chittodvega (Anxiety)
- Anidra (Insomnia)
- Apasmara (Epilepsy)
- Unmada (Mental disorders)
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: balancing
- pitta: balancing
Preparation methods
- Powder (Churna): Mix 2-5 g of powder with warm water or honey and consume once or twice daily.
- Decoction (Kashayam): Boil 10-15 g of raw herb in water until reduced by half, then consume hot.
- Syrup: Administer 5-10 ml twice daily, often with water after meals.
- Capsule/Tablet: Take 1-2 capsules or tablets twice daily after meals with warm milk or water.
- Oil Infusion: Apply a few drops of oil gently on the temples at bedtime for tension headaches.
Contraindications
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare professional before use.
- Individuals with underlying health conditions, particularly heart disease, should exercise caution and consult a practitioner.
Side effects
- Generally considered safe when taken in recommended doses. Excessive use may cause sedation or digestive upset.
Interactions
- May reduce the efficacy of phenytoin and lower plasma phenytoin levels. Caution is advised when co-administering with other medications, especially those affecting the central nervous system. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
Active compounds
- Shankhapushpine
- Convolvine
- Convolamine
- Scopoletin
- Kaempferol
- Quercetin
- Myricetin
- Ceryl alcohol
- β-sitosterol
- Hydroxy-cinnamic acid
Clinical evidence
Clinical studies and trials suggest that Shankhpushpi may enhance memory, concentration, and learning abilities. Controlled human trials have reported a decrease in anxiety scores after using Shankhpushpi. Some studies are open-label or lack a placebo control, so more rigorous trials are needed.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Medhya
- Rasayana
- Nidrajanana
- Shothahara
- Vishahara
Classical clinical indications
- Smriti-daurbalya (Memory impairment)
- Chittodvega (Anxiety)
- Anidra (Insomnia)
- Apasmara (Epilepsy)
- Unmada (Mental disorders)
Frequently asked questions
What is Shankhpushpi?
Shankhpushpi is an herb used in Ayurvedic medicine, known for its cognitive benefits and ability to alleviate mental disorders.
What are the benefits of Shankhpushpi?
Medhya. Rasayana. Nidrajanana
How is Shankhpushpi used in Ayurveda?
Powder (Churna): Mix 2-5 g of powder with warm water or honey and consume once or twice daily.
Classical & Scientific References
- Classical monographs on Shankhpushpi in Bhavaprakasha Nighantu and Dravyaguna Vijnana.
- Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API), Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India.
- Charaka Samhita (Sutra Sthana Ch. 4 — Dravyadi Sangrahaniya) & Sushruta Samhita.
Published by herbs.directory