Shankhpushpi

At a Glance

Common name

Shankhpushpi

Scientific name

Convolvulus pluricaulis

Family

Convolvulaceae

Region

South Asia

Plant part

Aerial parts

Caffeine

Caffeine Free

Evidence

Insufficient

Safety review

Safety information on file

Botanical Description

A prostrate creeping morning-glory vine with small fleshy green lanceolate leaves and tiny light-blue funnel-shaped flowers; the aerial parts are used.

Also known as: Aloe Weed, Shankhahuli

Historical Background

Shankhpushpi has been a revered Ayurvedic 'medhya rasayana' for millennia, a calming herb for mind, memory, and sleep. Its gentle green brew is sipped for cognitive and nervous-system traditions and remains a prized Ayurvedic nervine and brain tonic.

Earliest recorded uses: Ayurvedic traditions for millennia; a renowned calming and cognitive herb.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Mild, green, slightly sweet, herbaceous

Tea Preparation

Modern Evidence

Shankhpushpi has a tradition as a calming, memory, and sleep herb; preclinical work shows mild anxiolytic, nootropic, and antioxidant activity. Clinical evidence is insufficient; it is not a treatment for anxiety, cognitive decline, epilepsy, or any disease, though it remains a respected Ayurvedic nervine.

Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.