Evidence supporting the use of: African Snakeroot
For the body system: Parasympathetic Nervous System

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Synopsis

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

African Snakeroot, also known as Rauvolfia serpentina, has a long history of use in traditional Ayurvedic and other South Asian medicinal systems. Traditionally, it has been used for its calming, sedative, and antihypertensive properties. The root contains alkaloids, most notably reserpine, which has been shown to affect the autonomic nervous system by depleting catecholamines and serotonin from nerve endings. This pharmacological action can lead to a reduction in sympathetic nervous system activity, thus indirectly promoting parasympathetic dominance, resulting in lowered blood pressure and a calming effect. While the scientific study of African Snakeroot focuses mainly on its antihypertensive and tranquilizing effects, these actions are closely tied to autonomic nervous system modulation. However, most of the evidence for its use to specifically "support the Parasympathetic Nervous System" comes from traditional use and inferred mechanisms, rather than direct clinical research targeting this body system. The use of reserpine derived from Rauvolfia serpentina in modern medicine (especially as an antihypertensive in the mid-20th century) does provide some scientific backing for its influence on autonomic balance, but there are significant side effects, including depression, which have led to its decline in clinical use. In summary, the traditional use is strong, with moderate scientific correlation, but targeted evidence for parasympathetic support is limited.

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