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

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis) has a long-standing history of use in Ayurveda and other traditional systems of medicine as a “medhya rasayana,” or brain tonic. It is traditionally believed to calm the mind, reduce anxiety, and promote relaxation, which are effects associated with the activation of the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS). Classical Ayurvedic texts describe Shankhpushpi as having properties that "support the nerves" and "promote mental tranquility," implying a role in balancing autonomic nervous system functions, particularly in mitigating stress responses.

Scientific studies investigating the herb’s effects are limited but suggest mild anxiolytic, sedative, and neuroprotective activities in animal models, some of which could relate to PNS activation indirectly. However, these studies are preliminary, and the connection to specific mechanisms of PNS modulation is not conclusively established. Most evidence supporting its use for the parasympathetic nervous system comes from centuries of traditional practice rather than robust clinical or mechanistic research. Therefore, Shankhpushpi's use for supporting the parasympathetic nervous system is justified primarily by tradition, with limited but suggestive scientific support.

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