Evidence supporting the use of: Indian snakeroot
For the health condition: Insomnia

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3

Indian snakeroot (Rauwolfia serpentina) has a long history of use in traditional Ayurvedic and Unani medicine for the treatment of insomnia and other nervous disorders. The root contains several alkaloids, notably reserpine, which has sedative and antihypertensive properties. Historical texts and ethnobotanical surveys document its use as a calming agent to promote sleep. While there is some scientific understanding of its mechanism—primarily through central nervous system depression attributed to reserpine—modern clinical trials specifically evaluating Indian snakeroot for insomnia are limited or lacking. Most research has focused on its effects on hypertension and psychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia. Adverse effects, including depression and extrapyramidal symptoms, have also been reported with reserpine use. Thus, while the traditional use for insomnia is well-documented and there is a plausible pharmacological basis, robust scientific evidence from controlled studies on its efficacy and safety for insomnia in humans is insufficient. Its use today is limited due to safety concerns and the availability of safer alternatives. Therefore, the rating reflects strong traditional use with partial scientific plausibility but insufficient modern clinical validation.

More about Indian snakeroot
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calcium
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cassia bark
chamomile
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cinnamon
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gooseberry
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maca
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marine lipid
melatonin
moringa
motherwort
ophiopogon root
orange
passionflower
perilla
phytocannabinoids
pollen
polygala root
quail egg
reishi mushroom
rose oil
saffron
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scrophularia root
skullcap
valerian root
vitamin B6
zinc
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Products containing Indian snakeroot

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.