Shankapushpi Whole Plant Extract
Also known as: Shankapushpi, Shankhapushpi, Clitorea ternatea, Convolvulus pluricaulis
Overview
Shankapushpi is a traditional Ayurvedic herbal extract primarily derived from Convolvulus pluricaulis, recognized for its cognitive-enhancing effects. Known as a nootropic, it has been extensively used in India for enhancing memory, alleviating anxiety, and offering neuroprotective benefits. The plant is characterized by active compounds such as shankhpushpine, scopoletin, and flavonoids, which contribute to its pharmacological effects. While research supports its efficacy mostly through animal studies and in vitro experiments, there is a notable deficiency in robust human trials, warranting further investigation. Commonly, it is prepared as a whole plant extract.
Benefits
Research has highlighted several evidence-backed benefits of Shankapushpi, including neuroprotection, memory enhancement, and antianxiety effects, primarily demonstrated in animal studies. Additionally, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hypolipidemic properties are noted, making it potentially beneficial for individuals with cognitive impairments or anxiety disorders. However, the current body of evidence mainly consists of animal and in vitro studies, with insufficient data on the specific effectiveness in humans. Specific effect sizes and time courses of these benefits remain unclear, highlighting a critical gap in clinical significance documentation.
How it works
The primary mechanism of action of Shankapushpi involves its role as a GABA-A agonist, which contributes to its central nervous system depressant effects. Additionally, it may influence acetylcholinesterase activity, impacting neurotransmitter dynamics relevant to memory and cognition. Its interaction may extend to the cardiovascular system through potential hypolipidemic effects, although detailed pathways and absorption characteristics have not been thoroughly examined.
Side effects
While Shankapushpi is generally considered safe, its side effects are not well-documented due to limited human studies. The lack of comprehensive safety data makes it challenging to ascertain common, uncommon, or rare side effects definitively. Potential drug interactions could occur with CNS depressants or anticholinergic medications, necessitating caution. Furthermore, its use is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient data on safety. Special considerations advise caution for children and the elderly, given the lack of sufficient exposure data in these populations.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of Shankapushpi has not been established in human studies, and optimal dosage ranges typically reflect traditional uses without standardized measurements. No maximum safe dosage has been established. There are no specific timing guidelines for administration, and whole plant extracts are generally employed. Absorption factors and necessary cofactors are yet to be fully elucidated, leaving dosing recommendations largely empirical.
FAQs
What are the practical usage concerns associated with Shankapushpi?
The primary concerns revolve around the lack of standardized dosing and limited human evidence to support its efficacy and safety.
Is Shankapushpi safe to use?
While it is generally considered safe, comprehensive safety data is missing, emphasizing caution in usage.
When should I take Shankapushpi?
There are no specific timing guidelines for administration, so timing remains largely flexible.
What results can I expect from using Shankapushpi?
Expected benefits include cognitive enhancement and reduced anxiety, although documentation of effects in humans is limited.
Is there robust evidence supporting its efficacy?
Most evidence comes from animal studies and in vitro experiments, with a notable need for human clinical trials.
Research Sources
- https://www.ayurvedjournal.com/JAHM_202172_10.pdf – This study examines the neuroprotective effects of Convolvulus pleuricaulis and its potential applications in neuroprotective formulations, highlighting its application in traditional medicine.
- https://phcogj.com/sites/default/files/PharmacognJ-15-3-372.pdf – This article discusses the pharmacological activities of Convolvulus pluricaulis, including its antioxidant, antianxiety, and hypolipidemic effects observed in various animal studies.
- https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.3109/13880209.2011.584539 – This research emphasizes the need for well-designed human clinical trials to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Shankapushpi, outlining limitations in the current research landscape.
