Herbs (Global Traditional) · Ayurveda
Shankhapushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis) (Convolvulus pluricaulis)
Moderate Evidencebotanical2 PubMed Studies
Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis) is an Ayurvedic herb containing alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds that support cognitive function. The bioactive compounds appear to modulate neurotransmitter pathways and reduce oxidative stress in neural tissues.
Shankhapushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis) is a perennial prostrate herb from the Convolvulaceae family, native to India with light purplish flowers arranged in dichasial cymes. The whole plant including roots, stems, leaves, and flowers is harvested and typically extracted using ethanol or solvents like chloroform to yield alkaloids, flavonoids, and steroids.
The research dossier reveals no specific human clinical trials, RCTs, or meta-analyses for Convolvulus pluricaulis, with no PubMed PMIDs provided. While reviews mention general pharmacological properties from preliminary phytochemical screening of ethanolic extracts, human clinical evidence is not substantiated in available sources.
No clinically studied dosage ranges for extracts, powder, or standardized forms are documented in the research. Traditional Ayurvedic formulations like Abana syrup/tablets contain C. pluricaulis among other herbs, but without quantified doses or standardization parameters. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
Shankhapushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis) is not consumed as a food for macronutrient value; it is used as a medicinal herb, typically as whole-plant powder, decoction, or extract. Its pharmacological relevance derives from its bioactive phytochemical profile rather than caloric or macronutrient content. **Bioactive Compounds & Approximate Concentrations (whole dried plant basis):** • **Alkaloids:** Shankhapushpine, convolvine, convolamine, convosine — total alkaloid content approximately 0.3–0.5% w/w; these tropane-type and non-tropane alkaloids are considered primary contributors to nootropic and anxiolytic activity. • **Flavonoids:** Kaempferol, quercetin, and their glycosides — total flavonoid content approximately 1.5–3.0% w/w (expressed as quercetin equivalents); these contribute antioxidant and neuroprotective effects. • **Triterpenoids & Steroids:** Shankhapushpin, β-sitosterol (~0.05–0.1% w/w), and other phytosterols contributing to anti-inflammatory and membrane-stabilizing properties. • **Glycosides:** Convolvulin and scopoletin (a coumarin glycoside, ~0.02–0.08% w/w); scopoletin has documented anxiolytic and spasmolytic activity. • **Phenolic acids:** Chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid — total phenolic content reported at approximately 15–30 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE) per gram of dried extract, contributing to overall antioxidant capacity (DPPH IC50 values reported around 50–150 µg/mL for ethanolic extracts). • **Volatile oils:** Trace amounts (<0.1%) including minor monoterpenes. • **Carbohydrates/Polysaccharides:** Mucilaginous polysaccharides present (contributing to traditional digestive use), not quantified precisely for nutritional purposes. • **Crude fiber:** ~15–20% in whole dried plant powder. • **Protein:** ~5–8% crude protein (whole plant, dried basis); not a significant dietary source. • **Minerals (per 100 g dried plant, approximate):** Calcium ~200–400 mg, Iron ~5–15 mg, Zinc ~2–5 mg, Magnesium ~100–200 mg, Potassium ~500–900 mg — values vary significantly with soil and cultivation conditions. • **Vitamins:** Trace amounts of vitamin C (~5–15 mg/100 g dried herb) reported; not a meaningful dietary source of vitamins. **Bioavailability Notes:** Aqueous decoctions (Kashaya) and milk-based preparations (Ksheerapaka) are traditional delivery methods that may enhance bioavailability of polar glycosides and alkaloids. Ethanolic and hydroalcoholic extracts show higher extraction of flavonoids and triterpenoids. The alkaloid shankhapushpine is moderately lipophilic, suggesting improved absorption with lipid-based formulations (Ghrita/ghee preparations traditional in Ayurveda). Scopoletin has moderate oral bioavailability but undergoes hepatic first-pass metabolism. Standardized extracts are typically calibrated to total alkaloid content (≥0.3%) or total phenolic content for consistency.
Shankhpushpi's alkaloids and flavonoids cross the blood-brain barrier to modulate acetylcholine and GABA neurotransmitter systems. The phenolic compounds exhibit antioxidant activity that protects neurons from oxidative damage. These mechanisms collectively support cognitive enhancement and neuroprotection through enhanced synaptic transmission.
Human clinical trials on Shankhpushpi remain limited, with most evidence derived from traditional use and preliminary animal studies. Phytochemical screening confirms the presence of memory-supporting alkaloids and flavonoids, but controlled human studies with measurable cognitive outcomes are not well-documented. Animal research suggests potential nootropic effects, though translation to human efficacy requires further investigation. The herb's traditional classification as Medhya Rasayana (brain tonic) in Ayurveda provides historical context but lacks modern clinical validation.
Shankhpushpi is generally considered safe when used traditionally, though comprehensive safety data from clinical trials is limited. Potential interactions with sedative medications may occur due to its traditional use as a sleep aid. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid use due to insufficient safety data. Individuals taking antidiabetic or blood pressure medications should consult healthcare providers before use.
