Rauvolfia serpentina, the scientific name for
sarpagandha, is a potent medicinal plant that has been utilized in Ayurveda for ages. It is indigenous to India and Southeast Asia and has long been used to treat insomnia, anxiety, and hypertension. Reserpine and other alkaloids found in the roots have potent sedative and antihypertensive effects. It was given the name "Sarpagandha" (meaning "snake scent") because of its ancient use in treating snake bites and mental illnesses. Its inherent capacity to control blood pressure and stress makes it still relevant today.
