Sarpagandha Tablets for Insomnia: A Natural Sleep Remedy?

Derived from the root of the Sarpagandha plant, also known as Rauwolfia serpentina, it is valued for its antihypertensive properties. In every family, there is a person suffering from hypertension. Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, happens when too much pressure is on the blood vessel.   

An unhealthy lifestyle, environmental factors, family history, and other health conditions can lead to elevated blood pressure. Sarpagandha tablets are a traditional Ayurvedic medicine known for their therapeutic benefits in managing hypertension and related conditions.    

It contains alkaloids such as reserpine, which acts as a central nervous system depressant and helps lower blood pressure by reducing the heart rate and relaxing blood vessels. Sarpagandha tablet uses don’t end here; it is also commonly known to alleviate sleep disorders by promoting relaxation, reducing anxiety levels, and improving sleep patterns. In the blog post, we will delve into its overall benefits for insomnia and overall health. 

Read about the 8 Best Ayurvedic Remedies for Managing High Blood Pressure 

Overview of Sarpagandha Tablet 

Sarpagandha tablets are derived from the Rauwolfia serpentina plant, also known as Indian Snakeroot. This herb has a long history in herbal medicine. Its name translates to “snake root,” reflecting the plant's twisted, snake-like appearance.  

Ayurvedic practitioners have traditionally used Sarpagandha for various ailments, and its calming properties have made it a center for sleep support. 

Benefits of Sarpagandha for Insomnia and Overall Health

Well, we know it is excellent for hypertension, but how is it effective in treating insomnia, and what are its benefits? Let us know:   

Mechanism of Action: Sarpagandha contains alkaloids like reserpine, ajmaline, and serpentine, which exert sedative and tranquilizing effects on the central nervous system. Reserpine, in particular, acts by depleting catecholamines (like dopamine and norepinephrine) in the brain, thereby reducing arousal and promoting relaxation. This mechanism helps calm the mind and prepare the body for sleep.  

• Promotes Relaxation: Sarpagandha tablets uses go beyond just helping with insomnia. It is also known to reduce stress and anxiety levels, which are common contributors to insomnia. The tablet helps to calm the nervous system and achieve a state of relaxation.  
   
• Induces Sleep: The calming properties of this Ayurvedic medicine for sleeping disorders facilitate the onset of sleep. It helps individuals who have difficulty falling asleep by promoting a natural and restful sleep pattern.  
   
• Regulates Sleep Cycles: Regular use of Sarpagandha tablets can help regulate sleep-wake cycles, ensuring better sleep quality and overall sleep hygiene.  
   
• Reduces Nighttime Awakening: According to the study conducted by the National Center for Biotechnology Information, 35% of people wake up during nighttime, at least three times per week. People suffering from frequent awakenings at night may benefit from Sarpagandha tablets, which help maintain uninterrupted sleep.  
   
• Non-habit-forming: Unlike some pharmaceutical sleep aids, Sarpagandha tablets are non-habit-forming when used as directed. They provide a natural approach to improving sleep without the risk of dependency.  
   
• Antihypertensive: The alkaloids in Sarpagandha, such as reserpine, ajmaline, and serpentine, have antihypertensive effects. They work by dilating blood vessels and reducing the heart rate, helping manage hypertension.  
   
• Anxiolytic and Antidepressant: Sarpagandha tablets exhibit anti-anxiety and antidepressant properties. They help in reducing anxiety levels and improving mood by modulating neurotransmitter levels in the brain. This makes them useful in managing stress-related disorders and promoting emotional well-being.  
   
• Antispasmodic: Sarpagandha can help relieve muscle spasms and cramps. This property is beneficial in conditions requiring muscle relaxation, such as certain types of pain and neurological disorders.  
   
• Cardioprotective: It helps strengthen the heart muscle, improve cardiac function, and regulate heart rhythm. This makes Sarpagandha worthwhile in conditions like arrhythmias and congestive heart failure.  
   
• Antioxidant: The antioxidants in Sarpagandha tablets help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body. This property contributes to overall health and longevity by protecting cells from damage and aging.

Dosage and Considerations

A qualified healthcare provider or Ayurvedic practitioner should determine the dosage of Sarpagandha tablets based on individual needs and health conditions.  

It is advisable to use Sarpagandha tablets and Ayurvedic medicine for sleep disorders under professional guidance for a specific duration to avoid prolonged use unnecessarily.  

Get insight on A Closer Look at the Most Common Causes of Sleeping Problems  

Precautions and Side Effects of Sarpagandha Tablet
 

Side Effects 

• Hypotension (Low Blood Pressure): Sarpagandha tablets are potent antihypertensive agents and can significantly lower blood pressure. Excessive blood pressure lowering may cause symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, or fatigue.  
   
• Sedation and Drowsiness: Its soothing effects can affect the central nervous system, which may cause drowsiness, lethargy, or reduced alertness, especially when taken in higher doses or initially after starting treatment.

Precautions 

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Sarpagandha tablets are contraindicated during pregnancy due to their potential to lower blood pressure, which could adversely affect maternal and fetal health.

They are also not recommended during breastfeeding, as the active compounds may pass into breast milk and affect the infant. 

• Children and Elderly: It must be used cautiously in children and elderly, as they may be more sensitive to sedatives and blood pressure-lowering effects.  
   
• Medical Conditions: Individuals with a history of depression, peptic ulcer disease, Parkinson's disease, or other psychiatric or gastrointestinal disorders should use Sarpagandha tablets under medical supervision. Consult a healthcare provider before consuming the medication. Please do not self-medicate or exceed the recommended dosage.  Long-term use of Sarpagandha tablets should be monitored.

Conclusion

While Sarpagandha tablets promise a better night's sleep, it's crucial to remember that everyone's body reacts differently. Consulting a qualified healthcare professional is vital to ensure a safe and personalized approach. Dr. Ajay Kumar Saxena, a renowned Ayurvedic practitioner with over 13 years of experience, can be your trusted guide. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Saxena today and explore the power of Ayurveda at HealthyBazar today. If you are also going through sleep issues, leave a comment below and ask the experts.