Rauwolfia

Rauwolfia is an ayurvedic medicine made from Rauwolfia serpentina, traditionally used for its anti-hypertensive and calming effects. It helps manage high blood pressure, supports cardiovascular health and promotes relaxation. Rauwolfia is also effective in maintaining heart function and reducing stress-induced symptoms.

The plant contains several bioactive compounds, including Reserpine, Ajmaline, Serpentine, Yohimbine and Rescinnamine.

Reserpine lowers blood pressure by depleting catecholamines from sympathetic nerve endings, which leads to vasodilation and reduced cardiac output. Ajmaline is used mainly for arrhythmia. It blocks sodium channels, which slows cardiac conduction and stabilises heart rhythms. Serpentine has sedative properties that help ease conditions like anxiety and insomnia, and it also helps reduce blood pressure through central nervous system modulation. Rescinnamine works as an ACE inhibitor. It blocks the conversion of angiotensin 1 to angiotensin 2, a potent vasoconstrictor, and this leads to vasodilation and a reduction in blood pressure.