Premna, particularly species like Premna serratifolia (commonly known as “Agnimantha” in Ayurveda), has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda and other Southeast Asian ethnomedicines. In these traditions, Premna bark and leaves have been used for various health concerns, including as a nervine tonic—meaning an agent believed to calm the nerves or treat nervousness. Classical Ayurvedic texts mention Premna among formulations prescribed for neurological disturbances, anxiety, and general weakness of the nervous system.

However, the evidence supporting Premna’s efficacy for nervousness is largely anecdotal and based on empirical tradition rather than rigorous clinical trials. Some preliminary pharmacological studies have identified antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and mild CNS (central nervous system) depressant activities in Premna extracts, which could theoretically contribute to calming effects. Nonetheless, these studies are limited in number and mostly conducted in vitro or in animal models; no robust human clinical trials have specifically validated Premna’s effectiveness for treating nervousness or related anxiety disorders.

In summary, the use of Premna for nervousness is primarily justified by traditional medicine practices. The evidence rating is 2/5, indicating that while there is a strong traditional foundation, scientific substantiation remains preliminary and inconclusive for this specific indication.