Shankhpushpi

Parts Usually Used

The whole plant including roots, stems, leaves, and flowers

Description of Plant(s) and Culture

Shankhpushpi is a perennial herb belonging to the Convolvulaceae family. It is a prostrate, spreading plant that resembles morning glory with conch-shaped flowers. 5 cm in width. The flowers are pink or white, appearing singly or in pairs, and are sessile or subsessile. The stems are light green, thin, cylindrical, and covered with pronounced hairs at nodes and internodes.

Where Found

Shankhpushpi is ubiquitous in the north-western regions of India and is also found in Burma. It flourishes in sandy and gravelly soils under xerophytic conditions, particularly thriving in the arid regions of Northern India.

Medicinal Properties

Shankhpushpi has been shown to contain nootropic, anxiolytic, neuroprotective, antioxidant, analgesic, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory, anticonvulsant, antidepressant, sedative, spasmolytic, antihypertensive, antiulcer, hepatoprotective, and anthelmintic properties. Studies have demonstrated that this herb can improve memory retention, reduce anxiety and stress, protect against neurodegeneration, and help manage conditions such as epilepsy, insomnia, hypertension, diabetes, and various neurological disorders.

It has shown particular promise in protecting against oxidative stress and supporting cognitive function.

Biochemical Information

The major phytoconstituents include: Alkaloids: convolamine, convolvine, convoline, convolidine, phyllabine, subhirsine, sankhpuspine Flavonoids: kaempferol, quercetin Coumarins: scopoletin, scopolin, ayapanin Steroids: β-sitosterol, phytosterol Terpenoids: taraxerol, taraxerone Phenolic compounds: hydroxy-cinnamic acid Anthocyanins: delphinidine Carbohydrates: D-glucose, sucrose, rhamnose, maltose Vitamins and minerals: calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, sulphur, zinc, vitamin C and E

Uses

In traditional medicine systems, shankhpushpi was historically regarded as a general brain tonic and rejuvenator, utilized by practitioners with the intention of enhancing memory and cognitive function. Herbalists traditionally administered it for sleep disturbances, stress, and general mood imbalances. Historical accounts also note its application for cardiovascular complaints, digestive issues such as gastric ulcers, and general inflammatory conditions.

Furthermore, traditional practitioners employed the herb for respiratory complaints, including asthma and bronchitis, as well as for urinary tract disorders, skin conditions, and wound management. Later commercial preparations incorporated the plant into various forms, including tablets, syrups, powders, and oils, marketed for cognitive health and cosmetic uses.

How Sold

Shankhpushpi is available in various commercial forms including tablets, capsules, syrups, powders, oils, juices, and decoctions. Popular commercial products include Patanjali Divya Shankhpushpi Churna, Dabur Shankhpushpi Syrup, Baidyanath Shankhpushpi Sharbat, and various nutraceutical formulations.