What is the medical use of Rauvolfia?
Rauvolfia plants contain dozens of species, but Rauvolfia serpentine is most commonly used for medical purposes. The plant, which is commonly called the Indian Snakeroot, contains approximately 30 alkaloids, pharmacologically active plant compounds. Rauvolfia has been employed in Indian Ayurvedic medicinal tradition for more than 2,000 years, especially for the treatment of mental diseases and sleep problems. The species of this plant have been used for centuries in Asia and Africa. Since the mid -20th century, Western medicine has used plant extract to treat hypertension and certain mental diseases.
Traditional medicinal use of Rauvolfia differs from the treatment of poisonous snakes to insomnia. The dried plant root is used in traditional healing systems and is believed to contain the most active ingredients. Ayurvedic medicine used the root to treat worms, problems with gastrointestinal tract and infectious diseases, drought such as cholera and dysentery, along with insomnia and psychosis. Among other traditional uses in Asia PAThree decreases in fever, relieve headache and treatment of venereal diseases and epilepsy. Simulations of uterine contraction during delivery, relaxation of anxiety and treatment of liver disorders are other folk uses.
Modern Science has studied the phytochemical components of Rauvolfia since the mid -20th century. The alkaloids present in the plant are Reserpine, Yohimbine, Ajmaline and others considered the most pharmacologically active. Research has determined that Rauvolfia serpentina has properties useful for reducing high blood pressure and reserpine extract has been widely used as a hypertensive drug. Reserpine and other alkaloids in the root law on the central nervous system, causing its antihypertensive and sedative effects. Another potential to benefits includes its antioxidant and anti -tumor effects.
Another species, Rauvolfia vomitorium , is used in traditional African medicine. Although this kind can have toxiClear properties, the plant has a wide healing use. Insecticidal potions are prepared from bark and root powder to kill fleas and other pests. The plant is used to treat mental diseases, leprosy and arthritis in African areas. In addition, this plant is admitted to induce vomiting and relaxing the intestines.
severe depression is the primary unfavorable side effect of Rauvolfia, along with fatigue and impaired reaction times. It is recommended that patients who are pregnant or can conceive, and patients with chronic gastrointestinal disorders that do not consume any products containing this plant or its extracts. Interactions with drugs and alcohol were documented. Alkaloids in the plant can cause angina and arrhythmias if used with certain heart drugs. Interactions occur with ephedrine, propanoleminhibitors OL, monoamine oxidase and other drugs, as well as with herbs containing glycoside compounds.