Somalata

(Soma Plant)
Sanskrit: सोमलता • Botanical: Sarcostemma brevistigma W. & A.

Somalata (Sarcostemma brevistigma) is described as the legendary Soma plant of Vedic fame. The text notes considerable debate about the true identity of Soma. Sarcostemma is a leafless, fleshy, twining climber. The stems yield a milky juice which was traditionally used to prepare Soma Rasa. It is sweet, astringent, light, unctuous, and cold in potency. It is described as intellect-promoting (Medhya), rejuvenative (Rasayana), cardiotonic (Hridya), and vitality-enhancing (Ojovardhaka). The text discusses extensively the mystical and medicinal significance of Soma. Various scholars have proposed different plants as the original Soma including Ephedra, Sarcostemma, and others. The juice was used in ancient Vedic rituals. Verse refs: pages 444-445.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Sweet (Madhura), Astringent (Kashaya)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Unctuous (Snigdha)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Sweet (Madhura)
Key Constituents
Alkaloids, cardiac glycosides
Also Known As
English: Soma Plant, Moon Creeper
Sanskrit: सोमवल्ली, सोमलता, अंशुमती, चन्द्रभागा
Hindi: सोमलता, सोमरस

What is Somalata (Soma Plant / सोमलता)?

Somalata (Sarcostemma brevistigma) is described as the legendary Soma plant of Vedic fame. The text notes considerable debate about the true identity of Soma. Sarcostemma is a leafless, fleshy, twining climber. The stems yield a milky juice which was traditionally used to prepare Soma Rasa. It is sweet, astringent, light, unctuous, and cold in potency. It is described as intellect-promoting (Medhya), rejuvenative (Rasayana), cardiotonic (Hridya), and vitality-enhancing (Ojovardhaka). The text discusses extensively the mystical and medicinal significance of Soma. Various scholars have proposed different plants as the original Soma including Ephedra, Sarcostemma, and others. The juice was used in ancient Vedic rituals. Verse refs: pages 444-445.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Medhya (intellect-promoting)
  • Rasayana (rejuvenative)
  • Hridya (cardiotonic)
  • Balya (strength-giving)
  • Ojovardhaka (increases Ojas/vitality)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Somalata by Condition

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

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Somalata for Brain Fog & Memory
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Somalata for Male Sexual Health

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.