A Review: Use of Rauwolfia Serpentina for Antihypertensive Activity

The root of sarpgandha is a species of flowering plant in the family Apocynaceae has been traditionally used in Ayurveda for many years to treat the variety of diseases of that at been traditionally apper to bear little similar to one another. Rauwolfia Serpentina is a safe and effective treatment of hypertension. This author reviews the scientific literature with regard to the use of Rauwolfia and the treatment of hypertension. Much smaller dose of reserpine is required to obtain the antihypertensive activity. The present review focuses mainly on chemical composition, pharmacology, mechanism of action, side effect and toxicity and antihypertensive effect of Rauwolfia alkaloids. The plant provide clinician with a safe and effective adjunct to high blood pressure.