Morning Glory

(Shankhpushpi)
Sanskrit: शंखपुष्पी • Botanical: Convolvulus pluricaulis Chois.

Shankhapushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis) is one of the most important Medhya (intellect-promoting) herbs in Ayurveda. It is a prostrate spreading herb found in dry regions. The whole plant is used medicinally. It is described with white, conch-shaped flowers, hence the name. Its primary action is on the brain and nervous system, improving memory, concentration, and cognitive functions. It is used in anxiety, insomnia, epilepsy, and mental fatigue. The plant has a calming effect on the mind and promotes sound sleep (Nidra). It is also used in hypertension. The herb has 4-12 inches spreading stems with small white or pale blue flowers. Leaves are linear. Dose: Swarasa 4-12 tola; Churna 1-2.5 tola. Verse: 269-270.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Bitter (Tikta), Pungent (Katu), Astringent (Kashaya)
Quality (Guna)
Unctuous (Snigdha)
Potency (Virya)
Hot (Ushna)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Sweet (Madhura)
Key Constituents
Shankhapushpine, Convolamine, Flavonoids
Also Known As
English: Shankhpushpi, Morning Glory
Sanskrit: शंखपुष्पी, क्षीरपुष्पी, मंगल्यकुसुमा, विष्णुक्रान्ता
Hindi: शंखपुष्पी, शंखाहुली

What is Morning Glory (Shankhapushpi / शंखपुष्पी)?

Shankhapushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis) is one of the most important Medhya (intellect-promoting) herbs in Ayurveda. It is a prostrate spreading herb found in dry regions. The whole plant is used medicinally. It is described with white, conch-shaped flowers, hence the name. Its primary action is on the brain and nervous system, improving memory, concentration, and cognitive functions. It is used in anxiety, insomnia, epilepsy, and mental fatigue. The plant has a calming effect on the mind and promotes sound sleep (Nidra). It is also used in hypertension. The herb has 4-12 inches spreading stems with small white or pale blue flowers. Leaves are linear. Dose: Swarasa 4-12 tola; Churna 1-2.5 tola. Verse: 269-270.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Medhya (intellect promoting)
  • Smritiprada (memory enhancing)
  • Manasrogahara (alleviates mental disorders)
  • Nidrajnana (sleep inducing)
  • Rasayana (rejuvenative)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Morning Glory by Condition

Explore how Morning Glory is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.

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Morning Glory for Blood Pressure
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Morning Glory for Brain Fog & Memory

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.