Shankhpushpi: Convolvulus Microphyllus and Its Clinical Uses

In India, shankhpushpi is known by many names, such as Kambumalini, Samkhapushpi, Sadaphuli, and Sankhaphuli. The plant is a native family member of Convolvulus microphyllus and Convolvulus pluricaulis. 

This herb is believed to be a powerful memory enhancer and brain tonic that can be used to improve the intelligence levels and brain function of a person. The plant was named ‘shankhpushpi’ because of its shank or conch-shaped flowers. In ayurvedic formulations, these can be used to make decoctions and tonics for memory. In this article, we will talk about various uses of shankhpushpi.

Shankhpushpi Plant

Shankhpushpi is an Indian native herb used to treat many problems and diseases. In the ayurvedic system, this plant is often called “Medhya Rasayana”, which means medicines that can treat, rejuvenate, preserve, improve memory and enhance intellect. Every part of this plant is used for making ayurvedic formulations. 

Sometimes, this plant is referred to as morning glory, speed wheel, or Aloe weed with flowers shaped like conches coloured in white or blue. At the same time, its leaves are in the shape of an arrow. In Sanskrit, this plant is known by various names as mentioned in ayurvedic scriptures. Some of its other names are Shyamakranta, Vishnukranta, Vaishnava, Sankhaholi, Vishnugandhi, etc.

Various Diseases this Plant Can Cure

This plant can cure several ailments. From the leaves to flowers, every part of this plant is used for curing numerous problems. 

• Media (memory booster)

• Vamana (vomiting)

• Deepa (enhancing stomach fire)

• Pachana (assisting indigestion)

• Rochana (stimulation of the appetite)

• Kasahara (treatment of skin disease)

• Shothahara (reducing inflammation)

• Hridaya (treating heart ailments)

• Jantujit (curing worm infestation) 

Uses of Shankhpushpi

The physician prescribes Shankhpushpi herb in powder, tablet, pill, juice, syrup, or oil. We can consume these things with water or any liquid. Except for the massaged oil, all herb forms can be used to drink after meals, especially in the morning. This herb is harmless but should be avoided by those having chronic illnesses such as hypertension. 

• This plant can decrease blood pressure, so it is advisable not to consume it if the patient has hypertension. Patients who are consuming blood pressure pills might experience dizziness.

• Sometimes, people consuming this herb along with phenytoin can result in antiepileptic action and lowering blood levels of phenytoin. It might also lead to seizures. 

Benefits of Using Shankhpushpi in Medicines

• Good for insomnia patients

This plant is extremely helpful in lowering thesis levels, which lowers stress hormones. With lower stress, one can study well, work well, and sleep much better. This herb can be taken in powdered form with milk. 

• It can help anorexia patients

Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder in which people deprive themselves of food to look good or fear getting fat and having low esteem, among other reasons. It is also linked to mental health as a person might face some health issues or have difficulties gaining weight. This herb can help in increasing the appetite. 

• Cure for hypertension 

One of the uses of shankhpushpi is to cure hypertension symptoms. The plant has active ingredients that make it an effective treatment for individuals with high blood pressure or hypertension. It also helps prevent atherosclerosis, which is the hardening of the arteries, thus reducing the risk of strokes and heart disease. 

• Good for ulcers

Several types of research have proven that this plant has glycoprotein secretions that are particularly helpful in treating various forms of stomach ulcers, such as peptic and ulcerative colitis.

• Neural problems

It stops the loss of neurons and promotes cognitive functioning. The herb is highly beneficial for memory-boosting. It is used in the treatment of many psychotic diseases such as epilepsy, dementia, and Alzheimer’s.

• Cure for miscarriages

Convolvulus microphyllus is good for women experiencing problems in having babies. This herb is healthy for pregnant women since it strengthens the uterus and also helps in preventing miscarriages. 

Conclusion

In this article, we talk about several uses of shankhpushpi. This plant is often called Convolvulus microphyllus and is an ancient herbal treatment that has been used in many ayurvedic formulations. This herb can be taken as powder, liquid, gel or in the form of pills. The therapeutic efficiency of this plant can cure infertility disorders and is enhanced by the vast health benefits of the many herbs utilised in it.