Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis) is a revered herb in Ayurveda, primarily used as a "Medhya Rasayana"—an agent that supports cognitive functions, memory, learning, and mental clarity. Traditionally, it is believed to calm the mind, reduce stress, and balance the nervous system, which indirectly supports the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) by mitigating overactivity related to anxiety and stress. Classical Ayurvedic texts describe its use for managing conditions akin to nervous exhaustion, insomnia, and restlessness.

However, direct scientific validation linking Shankhpushpi to the modulation of the sympathetic nervous system specifically is limited. Preclinical studies have demonstrated anxiolytic, neuroprotective, and antioxidant effects, which may be relevant to SNS overactivity, but these effects have mostly been shown in animal models or in vitro. A few small studies suggest improvement in stress and cognitive parameters in humans, but the research does not conclusively establish a direct action on the SNS itself. Most of the support for its use comes from traditional knowledge and empirical use rather than robust clinical or mechanistic evidence.

In summary, Shankhpushpi's use for supporting the sympathetic nervous system is primarily based on traditional practices with some preliminary scientific support for general nervous system calming and stress reduction. High-quality clinical research specifically targeting the SNS is lacking.

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