Rauwolfia serpentina

Rauvolfia serpentina is a medicinal plant of the Kutrov family (Apocynaceae). The roots of the plant are used.

Rauwolfia serpentina is a small shrub native to the tropical regions of India, Sri Lanka and other countries in Southeast Asia. The roots of the plant contain alkaloids, the main of which is reserpine.

Rauwolfia roots have long been used in folk medicine as a remedy for snake bites, fever, diarrhea, and also as a sleeping pill for children.

In modern medicine, rauwolfia-based drugs are used due to their sedative, hypotensive and antispasmodic effects. They help with high blood pressure, anxiety, and neuroses.

Rauwolfia preparations should only be taken under medical supervision, as if used incorrectly, side effects such as sleep disturbances, depression and Parkinson's syndrome are possible.

In homeopathy, Rauvolfia serpentina is used in low dilutions to reduce blood pressure and in high dilutions for nervous disorders.

Thus, despite possible side effects, Rauwolfia serpentine remains a valuable medicinal plant, widely used in medicine.