Evidence supporting the use of: Indian snakeroot
For the health condition: Tremors
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Indian snakeroot (Rauwolfia serpentina) has a long history of use in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for a variety of neurological and psychiatric conditions, including tremors. Historically, the root was employed to manage symptoms of insanity, epilepsy, and "nervous disorders"—a category that broadly included involuntary movements such as tremors. Rauwolfia contains several alkaloids, most notably reserpine, which has sedative and antihypertensive properties. Traditional texts and historical pharmacopeias reference its use to "quiet the nerves" and reduce agitation and tremulousness.
However, scientific evidence specifically supporting its effectiveness for tremors is limited. The discovery of reserpine in the mid-20th century led to its use in modern medicine for hypertension and psychosis, but also revealed significant side effects, including depression and parkinsonism (which can include tremors as a side effect rather than a remedy). While there are anecdotal reports and historical documentation of its calming effect, controlled clinical trials directly assessing Indian snakeroot or reserpine for primary tremor conditions (such as essential tremor or Parkinson’s disease tremor) are lacking. Thus, its use for tremors is primarily justified by tradition, with weak scientific corroboration for this specific indication.
Other health conditions supported by Indian snakeroot
AnxietyDepression
Epilepsy
Hypertension
Insomnia
Pain (general remedies for)
Parkinson's Disease
Schizophrenia
Stress
Tremors