Shankhpushpi: Convolvulus pluricaulis Benefits, Uses, Precaution & More!

Shankhpushpi, known by various names such as Shankhini, Kambumalini, Samkhapushpi, Sadaphuli, and Sankhaphuli, is a powerful memory booster and brain tonic. This incredible herb works wonders to enhance intelligence and overall brain function. Named for its conch-shaped flowers (shankh means conch in Sanskrit), Shankhpushpi is renowned for its ability to improve concentration, learning capabilities, and mental clarity. It is also effective in alleviating mental fatigue, insomnia, stress, anxiety, and depression.

Botanically known as Convolvulus pluricaulis, Shankhpushpi is a perennial plant native to India. Commonly referred to as morning-glory, speed wheel, or Aloe weed in English, this medicinal herb is easily identifiable by its arrowhead-shaped leaves and bulb-shaped blue or white flowers. The entire plant, from root to tip, is used for its extensive therapeutic benefits, making it a valuable addition to any herbal medicine cabinet.

In the ancient holistic science of Ayurveda, Shankhpushpi is highly regarded and frequently mentioned in various formulations and scriptures. It is known by several Sanskrit names such as Shyamakranta, Visnukranta, Vaishnava, Sankhaholi, Vishnugandhi, Vishnukranti, Shankavall, Vishnukrantha, Krishnaenkranti, Nilashankhapushpi, Ksheerpushpi, Laghuvishnukranta, and Erravishnukaraantha. These names reflect the herb’s deep-rooted importance in traditional medicine.

Shankhpushpi boasts a wide range of health benefits, thanks to its numerous properties:

1.         Memory Booster (Medhya): Enhances memory and cognitive function.

2.         Digestive Aid (Deepana and Pachana): Improves digestion and stimulates appetite.

3.         Skin Health (Kusthahara): Treats various skin diseases.

4.         Anti-inflammatory (Shothahara): Reduces inflammation in the body.

5.         Heart Health (Hridaya): Supports heart health.

6.         Anti-parasitic (Jantujit): Provides relief from worm infestations.

Overall, Shankhpushpi is a versatile and potent herb that addresses a multitude of health issues, making it an essential part of natural healing practices.

What is Shankhpushpi?

Shankhpushpi, also known as Shyamaktanta, is a perennial herb widely recognized for its numerous health benefits. This versatile plant helps manage digestion and relieve constipation due to its mild laxative properties. It also plays a significant role in improving mental health, potentially helping to alleviate depression thanks to its natural antidepressant qualities.

Shankhpushpi is renowned for its ability to calm the brain and relieve stress and anxiety. It acts as a brain tonic, enhancing memory and intelligence. You can consume Shankhpushpi powder with warm milk or water to boost memory and concentration. Additionally, Shankhpushpi tablets and capsules are available to support overall brain function.

Shankhpushpi has rejuvenating properties that help manage wrinkles and prevent aging. Applying Shankhpushpi powder to the skin aids in healing acne and wounds. For hair care, Shankhpushpi oil can be applied to the scalp to control hair fall and promote hair growth.

Shankhpushpi is known by several synonyms, including Convolvulus pluricaulis, Shyamakranta, and Speedwheel. It is a plant-based herb with various local names like Vishnukarandi and Krishna-enkranti, reflecting its widespread recognition and usage.

How to Use Shankhpushpi

Shankhpushpi is a versatile herb with multiple forms and uses, each suited for different needs. Here are some simple ways to incorporate Shankhpushpi into your daily routine.

Shankhpushpi Powder

To improve memory and concentration, take ¼ to ½ teaspoon of Shankhpushpi powder twice a day. For best results, mix ½ to 1 teaspoon of the powder with lukewarm milk and drink it in the morning. Consistent use can help boost your cognitive functions.

Shankhpushpi Juice

For general wellness and to lower the risk of epilepsy, take 2 to 4 teaspoons of Shankhpushpi juice once or twice a day. Mix 3 to 4 teaspoons of the juice with a glass of water and drink it twice daily for optimal benefits.

Shankhpushpi Capsules and Tablets

Shankhpushpi is also available in capsule and tablet forms. Take 1 to 2 capsules or tablets twice a day, preferably after meals, with milk or water. This method is convenient for those who prefer a quick and easy way to consume the herb.

Shankhpushpi Oil

To relieve stress and anxiety, use Shankhpushpi oil. Apply 2 to 5 drops (or as needed) to your scalp and hair, massaging evenly. Regular use can help you feel more relaxed and calm.

Shankhpushpi Paste

For healthy skin, make a fresh paste using ½ to 1 teaspoon of Shankhpushpi. Mix it with milk and apply to your face and neck. Leave it on for 5 to 7 minutes before washing off with tap water. Use this remedy 2 to 3 times a week to combat dry and dull skin.

Shankhpushpi Decoction

For quick wound healing, prepare a decoction. Boil ½ to 1 teaspoon of Shankhpushpi powder in 2 to 4 cups of water until it reduces to 1 cup. Filter the liquid and use it to clean the affected area once or twice a day. This practice can help speed up the healing process.

By following these simple methods, you can easily incorporate Shankhpushpi into your daily routine and enjoy its numerous benefits.

Phytochemical Constituents of Shankhpushpi

Shankhpushpi is a remarkable herbal remedy known for its diverse range of active compounds. Here are the key components that contribute to its benefits:

1.         Alkaloids: Shankhpushpi contains several important alkaloids including shankhapushpine, convolvuline, convolidine, convolvine, convolamine, convoline, confoline, and convozine.

2.         Volatile Oils: These oils contribute to the plant’s aromatic properties and therapeutic effects.

3.         Fatty Acids: The herb is rich in various fatty acids such as palmitic acid, linoleic acid, and myristic acid, which are essential for maintaining good health.

4.         Flavonoids: These compounds are known for their antioxidant properties, helping to protect cells from damage.

5.         Steroids-Phytosterols: These components play a role in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels.

6.         Sugars: Shankhpushpi contains D-glucose, maltose, and sucrose, which provide energy.

7.         Starch: A source of carbohydrates, starch provides a steady supply of energy.

8.         Rhamnose: This sugar is part of the plant’s natural composition.

9.         Proteins and Amino Acids: Essential for the body’s growth and repair, these nutrients support overall health.

Shankhpushpi’s unique combination of these phytochemicals makes it a powerful natural remedy for various health conditions.

Benefits of Shankhpushpi

Enhances Brain Function

Shankhpushpi is known to improve brain function significantly. Its antioxidants and flavonoids boost memory, focus, and concentration. By acting as a brain tonic, it enhances reasoning, problem-solving, and cognitive abilities. Regular use can prevent memory loss and ease mental tension.

Fights Mental Fatigue

Shankhpushpi helps reduce mental fatigue, which often results from prolonged cognitive activities like extensive computer work, watching TV, or studying. It boosts memory and concentration, helping you stay alert and focused.

To see these benefits, mix a spoonful of Shankhpushpi powder with water and drink it daily.

Eases Depression and Anxiety

Shankhpushpi is highly effective in treating stress, depression, and anxiety. It balances brain chemicals and boosts dopamine production, which helps control serotonin levels. This can alleviate symptoms like restlessness, cold hands and feet, and uneasiness, promoting relaxation of both mind and body.

Promotes Heart Health

Shankhpushpi is excellent for heart health. Its strong antioxidants strengthen heart muscles and prevent the buildup of lipids in blood vessels, reducing the risk of heart attacks, blockages, and clots. It also helps lower cholesterol levels.

Aids Digestion

Shankhpushpi enhances digestion by stimulating digestive juices, improving nutrient absorption, and alleviating symptoms of various digestive disorders like abdominal pain, distension, ulcerative colitis, and irritable bowel syndrome.

Improves Skin Health

Shankhpushpi is beneficial for skin health. Its antioxidants remove harmful free radicals, while its antipruritic properties reduce itching from conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and acne. It nourishes the skin deeply, giving it a radiant and healthy glow. Regular application can reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and dark spots.

For skin benefits, mix Shankhpushpi powder with honey and rose water, apply to your face, and leave for 20-30 minutes before washing off.

Relieves Headaches

Shankhpushpi provides relief from chronic headaches and tension. It soothes irritated nerves, calms the brain, and improves nerve function. Massaging your forehead with Shankhpushpi oil can help alleviate headaches and provide a cooling effect.

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Shankhpushpi oil helps control wrinkles by increasing moisture content and preventing skin cell degeneration. Its rejuvenating properties make it an effective anti-aging remedy.

Acne Treatment

Shankhpushpi controls acne by reducing sebum production and unclogging pores. It also helps reduce inflammation and heal the skin.

Prevents Premature Greying and Promotes Hair Growth

Shankhpushpi oil prevents premature greying, controls hair fall, and promotes hair growth due to its rejuvenating properties.

Wound Healing

Shankhpushpi speeds up wound healing, reduces swelling, and restores normal skin texture. Its healing and cooling properties are particularly effective in treating skin inflammation.

Additional Benefits

Improves Memory

Shankhpushpi enhances memory and concentration due to its properties that improve intelligence.

Helps with Insomnia

Shankhpushpi helps manage stress and insomnia by relaxing the mind.

Reduces Risk of Epilepsy

Shankhpushpi lowers the risk of epilepsy and other mental disorders due to its rejuvenating properties.

Aids in Digestion

Shankhpushpi helps manage gastrointestinal disorders such as constipation, jaundice, dysentery, piles, and indigestion.

Improves ADHD Symptoms

Shankhpushpi improves concentration and attention span in children with ADHD.

Precautions When Using Shankhpushpi

Shankhpushpi should be taken in the recommended dose and for the suggested duration. Taking too much can cause stomach issues like loose motions. Always stick to the advised amounts to avoid such problems.

Breastfeeding

If you are breastfeeding, only use Shankhpushpi under medical supervision. This is important to ensure both your safety and your baby’s health.

Heart Disease

For those with heart conditions, it’s essential to monitor your blood pressure while taking Shankhpushpi. It has properties that can lower blood pressure, so keep a close watch, especially if you are on antihypertensive medication.

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, use Shankhpushpi only with medical supervision. This precaution helps protect both the mother and the developing baby.

Proper Application of Shankhpushpi Oil

When using Shankhpushpi oil, dilute it with a base oil like coconut oil before applying it to your body. This helps in preventing any adverse skin reactions and ensures safe application.

Allergy Precautions

If you have sensitive skin, mix Shankhpushpi leaves or root paste with honey or milk before applying it. This combination helps soothe the skin and reduces the risk of allergic reactions.

Summarization of The Benefits of Convolvulus pluricaulis

1.         Enhances Memory: Boosts cognitive functions and improves memory retention.

2.         Reduces Stress: Helps in alleviating stress and anxiety by calming the mind.

3.         Improves Concentration: Enhances focus and mental clarity.

4.         Promotes Sleep: Aids in treating insomnia and promotes restful sleep.

5.         Supports Brain Health: Protects neurons and improves overall brain function.

6.         Anti-Anxiety: Acts as a natural anxiolytic, reducing symptoms of anxiety.

7.         Antioxidant Properties: Neutralizes free radicals and protects against oxidative stress.

8.         Boosts Immunity: Strengthens the immune system and helps in fighting infections.

9.         Anti-Depressant: Alleviates symptoms of depression by balancing neurotransmitters.

10.       Improves Digestion: Aids in digestion and helps in relieving digestive disorders.

11.       Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces inflammation and provides relief from inflammatory conditions.

12.       Enhances Cognitive Abilities: Improves learning abilities and cognitive performance.

13.       Balances Hormones: Regulates hormonal imbalances in the body.

14.       Reduces Fatigue: Alleviates physical and mental fatigue, increasing energy levels.

15.       Supports Cardiovascular Health: Improves heart health and regulates blood pressure.

16.       Detoxifies the Body: Helps in detoxifying the liver and removing toxins from the body.

17.       Enhances Mood: Improves mood and provides emotional stability.

18.       Boosts Sexual Health: Enhances libido and sexual performance.

19.       Anti-Aging Properties: Delays signs of aging by protecting cells from damage.

20.       Improves Skin Health: Promotes healthy, glowing skin and reduces acne.

21.       Enhances Hair Growth: Stimulates hair growth and reduces hair fall.

22.       Supports Respiratory Health: Helps in treating respiratory conditions like asthma and bronchitis.

23.       Regulates Blood Sugar: Helps in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.

24.       Improves Vision: Supports eye health and improves vision.

25.       Aids Weight Loss: Helps in managing weight by boosting metabolism.

26.       Reduces Menstrual Discomfort: Alleviates menstrual pain and regulates menstrual cycles.

27.       Supports Kidney Health: Promotes healthy kidney function and prevents kidney stones.

28.       Improves Appetite: Increases appetite and helps in better nutrient absorption.

29.       Enhances Physical Stamina: Increases physical endurance and strength.

30.       Boosts Overall Vitality: Enhances overall vitality and well-being, promoting a healthier lifestyle.

Conclusion

Shankhpushpi, also known as Convolvulus pluricaulis, is a powerful herbal remedy celebrated for its wide array of benefits. It enhances memory, reduces stress, improves concentration, and promotes restful sleep, making it a valuable ally for mental health. Its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties contribute to overall well-being, while its role in supporting cardiovascular, digestive, and respiratory health showcases its versatility.

However, it is crucial to use Shankhpushpi responsibly. Consulting a healthcare professional before incorporating it into your routine ensures its benefits are maximized safely, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions or those taking other medications. By understanding both its benefits and precautions, Shankhpushpi can be effectively utilized to enhance health and vitality naturally.

Frequently Asked Questions about Shankhpushpi

Q. What is the price of Shankhpushpi Syrup?

Shankhpushpi Syrup is available in various pack sizes and brands. For example, Dabur offers a 450 ml bottle for Rs 250, while Baidyanath sells the same quantity for Rs 400.

Q. What forms of Shankhpushpi are available in the market?

Shankhpushpi is available in several forms:

1.         Syrup

2.         Tablets

3.         Powder (Churna)

4.         Capsules (Extract)

Q. What are the chemical constituents of Shankhpushpi?

Shankhpushpi contains carbohydrates like D-glucose, maltose, rhamnose, and sucrose. It also has alkaloids such as shankhapushpine, convolamine, and convoline, along with fatty acids, volatile oils, proteins, and amino acids.

Q. Can Shankhpushpi reduce stress?

Yes, Shankhpushpi can help reduce stress and anxiety by lowering cortisol levels, which is a stress hormone.

Q. Is Shankhpushpi good for depression?

Shankhpushpi has active constituents like alkaloids, flavonoids, and coumarins that have antidepressant properties, which can help manage depression.

Q. Can I use Shankhpushpi to improve mental health?

Yes, Shankhpushpi can help reduce stress and anxiety, calm the mind, and improve memory. It is known as a brain booster. However, it is advisable to consult a doctor before using Shankhpushpi regularly.

Q. Is Shankhpushpi good for insomnia?

Shankhpushpi enhances brain function and has components that calm the brain and relieve stress, which may help manage insomnia.

Q. Can Shankhpushpi be used to manage epilepsy?

Shankhpushpi has been used as a nervine tonic in traditional medicine and may be useful in managing epilepsy due to its action on the central nervous system.

Q. Does Shankhpushpi help with high blood pressure?

There isn’t enough scientific information to fully support Shankhpushpi’s role in managing high blood pressure. However, some studies suggest that its constituents might help. To manage stress-induced high blood pressure, you can take ½ teaspoon of Shankhpushpi powder mixed with a glass of milk at breakfast.

Q. Does Shankhpushpi help with headaches?

Yes, Shankhpushpi helps manage headaches by relaxing agitated nerves and inducing sound sleep, which relieves headaches.

Q. Is Shankhpushpi useful for treating hysteria?

Yes, Shankhpushpi can help manage hysteria by acting as a brain tonic. It stimulates the brain, calms down brain activities, and reduces stress.

Q. What are the benefits of taking Shankhpushpi churna?

Shankhpushpi churna helps improve memory, reduce stress, improve sleep, and support the digestive system. It also boosts immunity and helps fight infections.

Q. What can Shankhpushpi oil be used for?

Shankhpushpi is commonly used in herbal oil preparations to improve hair growth.

 Reference

https://easyayurveds.com/ayurvedic-medicine-for-diarrhea/