In this post of Plants Folder, we will discuss serpentina plant and its scientifically proven properties and consumption restrictions. Herbal plants play a vital role in our lives, offering numerous benefits that make them incredibly important. Firstly, herbal plants have been used for centuries in traditional medicine systems to treat various ailments and promote overall well-being. They contain a wide array of bioactive compounds that possess medicinal properties, such as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents, and antimicrobial substances. Additionally, herbal plants often have fewer side effects compared to synthetic drugs, making them a safer alternative for certain individuals.
Moreover, herbal plants contribute to sustainable and eco-friendly practices, as they can be cultivated organically and do not require the extensive use of chemicals. This promotes biodiversity and protects the environment. Furthermore, herbal plants are not only used for medicinal purposes but also for culinary, aromatic, and cosmetic applications, enriching our sensory experiences. Overall, the importance of herbal plants lies in their ability to provide natural remedies, support sustainable practices, and enhance our well-being in various aspects of life.
Research results from 2016 AD indicate that the use of Rauwolfia serpentina can have a considerable effect on lowering systolic blood pressure. Compounds in this plant can affect the nervous system in specific conditions to aid patients, although its use should be cautiously approached. This is followed by an examination of the plant’s physical characteristics, method of consumption, therapeutic dosage, and side effects of its use as a medicinal herb:
Names of the Serpentina Plant
The plant grows in the southern and eastern parts of Asia (from parts of the Indian subcontinent to parts of Indonesia). It has been referred to by the following names in Asian and European sources:
- Rauwolfia serpentina
- Devil pepper
- Serpentine wood
- Indian snakeroot
Physical Characteristics of the Plant
Serpentina grows as a small shrub with beautiful flowers. The flowers are white and trumpet-shaped. Its leaves are elongated and green, while its buds are red before blooming. The best conditions for its growth are in areas with an altitude of less than one thousand meters in various parts of the Indian subcontinent.
Medicinal Properties of Serpentina
The research conducted before the year 2020 AD has yielded interesting results regarding its properties. Furthermore, according to the experiences of the indigenous people in Southeast Asia, there is the possibility of using this plant to treat seasonal diseases or control and prevent chronic diseases.
A few instances are mentioned below:
Improvement of influenza symptoms
One of the seasonal diseases that can be treated through this plant, accelerating the recovery process and reducing symptoms, is influenza. This might also help treat viral diseases such as COVID-19, although this has not been scientifically proven.
Fever treatment
Serpentina acts as a cooling medicine, helping to reduce the body temperature of patients when their body temperature rises.
Liver Problems
Traditional Indian medicine has used Serpentina for the treatment of liver issues. Additionally, it could be used for the following based on recent scientific research findings:
– Treatment of hypertension
– Heart problems
– Cancer
However, cardiac patients should be careful as in some cases, blood pressure might be inadvertently affected by its chemical compounds, resulting in a decrease.
Can Serpentina help improve sleep quality?
Yes. Traditionally, this herb has been used in the preparation of some drinks because it contains a compound effective in treating insomnia.
What are the side effects of Serpentina?
In most people, its use has mild side effects, but serious side effects have been observed in some individuals. These include:
– Nasal congestion
– Nausea
– Stomach muscle spasms
– Vomiting
– Diarrhea
– Loss of appetite
– Confusion
In rare cases, symptoms similar to Parkinson’s disease or coma have been observed in individuals who have consumed it.
What are the contraindications for Serpentina?
Some patients and individuals at risk (such as those at risk of heart disease) should use this herb cautiously because blood pressure increases or decreases and heart rate effects have been reported in some patients after its consumption. Moreover, if you need to drive a vehicle or work with machinery in industrial environments, its consumption should be avoided (due to problems such as drowsiness or reduced alertness).
Does Serpentina contain antibiotic compounds?
Yes. Research on the plant shows that in addition to its antibacterial properties, the compounds found in the plant have the following properties:
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antifungal
- Anti-proliferative
Is the consumption of Serpentina beneficial for neurological diseases?
One of the compounds of this plant might help treat symptoms of certain human nervous system-related diseases in addition to its impact on blood pressure.
What are the nutrients in the plant?
Several minerals and vitamins exist in different parts of this plant
- Ascorbic Acid (about 30 mg per 100 grams)
- Riboflavin (about 0.3 mg per 100 grams)
- Thiamine (about 0.15 mg per 100 grams)
- Niacin (between 0.02 to 0.09 mg per 100 grams)
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Zinc
- Iron
- Sodium
- Potassium
Dosage of Serpentina
The most important part of the plant with medicinal properties is its root. This part, also known as ravolphia, is obtained from the powdered root of Serpentina. In some countries, the powdered root is made into tablets or filled into capsules, after which this medicinal plant can be prescribed to patients. The amount of its consumption in the form of capsules or tablets should be determined by a doctor. In adults, the use of 4 to 6 tablets in 3 doses daily is prescribed, but adolescents or children should use a lower dose, which is typically half the dose prescribed for adults.
Why is Serpentina at risk of extinction?
Overuse of this plant has caused it to be recognized as one of the endangered species in Asia. It should be noted that this plant is traditionally used in India and also has a special place in Asian medicine.
What is the dosage for blood pressure?
The oral intake in the form of tablets for adults is between 50 to 200 milligrams daily. You can take it as a single dose or in divided doses throughout the day to lower systolic blood pressure, as prescribed by a doctor.
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