Sarpagandha: Benefits, Uses & Dosage

Sanskrit: Sarpagandha Botanical: Rauwolfia serpentina

Last updated:

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Bitter
Quality (Guna)
Dry, light
Potency (Virya)
Hot
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent
Dosha Effect
VPK<
Key Constituents
Indole alkaloids Reserpine, rescinnamine, resperpinine, ajmaline (WHO 1999, Williamson 2002)
Dhatu
Blood, nerve, reproductive
Srotas
Mental, nervous, circulatory, reproductive

What is Sarpa-gandha (serpentine species)?

It contains Reserpine alkaloid which is usedfor hypertension. This is the main herb for high blood pressure . Insanity with violent maniacal The Ayurveda Encyclopedia 102symptoms (doses; 20-30 grains of root powder), insomnia, insect stings, dysentery, painful boweldisorders, fevers, insanity, sedative, hypochondria, irritative conditions of the CNS (central nervous system); leaf juice in eyes heals cornea opaci-ties.

Source: The Ayurveda Encyclopedia, Chapter 4: Herbology

Ayurvedic Properties (Energetics)

PropertyValue
Rasa (Taste)root bitter
Tissues (Dhatu)Plasma, blood, marrow/nerves
Body SystemsExcretory, nervous, circulatory, respiratory

Source: The Ayurveda Encyclopedia, Chapter 4: Herbology

Therapeutic Actions

  • Bitter tonic
  • sedative
  • febrifuge

Source: The Ayurveda Encyclopedia, Chapter 4: Herbology

Preparation & Usage

Forms: Decoction, powder, pills

Source: The Ayurveda Encyclopedia, Chapter 4: Herbology

Precautions & Contraindications

  • Lethal in large doses
  • not yet allowed in the U
  • Prolonged use over 10 years can causesterility

Source: The Ayurveda Encyclopedia, Chapter 4: Herbology

How to Use Sarpagandha by Condition

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

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.