Evolvulus alsinoides
Synonyms
No documentation.
Vernacular Name
Vishnukiranthi, sankhapuspi, sakmal, sankhahuli, dwarf morning glory. [1]
Description
The small herb yields solitary blue flowers from slender branches that grow up to 30cm in length. In addition to its use in traditional medicine, E. alsinoides is considered to have significant religious value. Its Sanskrit name, Vishnukraanit, translates to “Vishnu’s Step”. [2]
Origin / Habitat
Vishnukraanti is a perennial weed growing throughout tropical and subtropical regions of the world, expanding through grasslands up to an elevation of 6,000 feet.
Chemical Constituents
Alkaloids, amino acids, betaine, carbohydrates, evolvine, phenolic compounds, proteins, sterols, tannins and a water-soluable base. [1]
Plant Part Used
Whole plant. [1]
Traditional Use
Vishnukraanti has been in use since the Vedic period in India, holding both a medicinal and spiritual importance in traditional Indian medicine. In Ayurvedic medicine Vishnukraanti is used to treat many mental and cognitive disorders as it is considered a nootropic. [3] It has been used to treat memory loss, nervous debility, fever, epilepsy and immune disorders. [1][4]
Vishnukraanti is considered an adaptogen and is used to treat various types of stress. [4] Traditional uses also include treatment of gastrointestinal ailments, including but not limited to dysentery. An Ayurvedic formula consisting of Vishnukraanti and Ocimum sanctum is used in treatment of diarrhea and intestinal discomfort. [1] Vishnukraanti and Ficus racemosus are also used in combination to treat female urinary tract disorders. [5] Dried leaves can be rolled into cigarettes and smoked to treat bronchitis and asthma. [2] Oil from the plant has been used to stimulate hair growth. Its rasa (tastes) is classified as kasaya (astringent), katu (pungent), and tikta (bitter). Vishnukraanti pacifies the Pitta dosha while increasing kapha and vata doshas. It has a cooling effect on the body.
Dosage
3-6g Powdered herb one to three times per day.
24-48ml Infusion as directed [1]
Pharmacology
Pre-clinical
A laboratory study qualified the ethanolic extract of Evolvulus alsinoides as having antibacterial properties when used in vitro against many common bacteria, incuding E. coli. The study demonstrated antibacterial activity that was comparable to a standard antibiotic. [6] The ethanolic extract of E. alsinoides also displays adaptogenic and anti-amnesiac activity in rodents. Nootropic and anti-inflammatory activity in E. alsinoides is also well known. [7] In vivo studies have also verified the anti-ulcer and anticatatonic abilities of the herb. [8]
A review study sought to verify many of the traditional claims laid out by the traditional usage of E. alsinoides. The study verified that Evolvulus alsinoides acted as an anthleminitic, antibacterial, anti-oxidant and immunomodulatory with potential use as a gastroprotective. [3]
Large doses of E. alsinoides may cause drowsiness and lowered mobility, but there is no toxic effect on the body. [3]
Clinical
No documentation.
Interaction and Depletions
Interaction with other Herbs
No documentation.
Interaction with Drugs
Not to be used in large quantities in conjunction with drugs that have a sedative effect. [3]
Precautions and Contraindications
Side effects
No documentation.
Pregnancy
Not to be used by pregnant or nursing women.
Age limitation
No documentation.
Adverse reaction
No documentation.
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References
- Kapoor, LD. CRC Handbook of Ayurvedic Medicinal Plants. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press; 2001.184.
- Herbal Monograph – Evolvulus alsinoides. The Himalaya Drug Company. 2002. Available from: http://www.himalayahealthcare.com/herbfinder/h_evolvulus.htm. [Accessed on 20 March 2009].
- Singh A, Duggal S. Review of Ethnomedicinal Uses and Pharmacology of Evolvus alsinoides Linn. Ethnobotanical Leaflets. Oct2008.12:734-740.
- Siripurapu KB, Gupta P, Bhatia G, Maurya R, Nath C, Palit G. Adaptogenic and anti-amnesic properties of Evolvulus alsinoides in rodents. Pharmacol Biochem Behav. Jul2005;81(3):424-432.
- Singh J, Narain S. Evolvulus alsinoides and Ficus racemosa: a traditional remedy for urinary complaints in females by Baigas of Sonbhadra district, Uttarpradesh, India. Flora and Fauna (Jhansi). Jun2007;13(1);67-68.
- Tharan NT, Vadivu R, Palanisamy M, Justin V. Antibacterial activity of Evolvulus alsinoides. Indian Drugs. 2003; 40(10): 585-586.
- Cervenka F, Koleckar C, Rehakova Z, Jahodar L, Kunes J, Opletal L, Hyspler R, Jun D, Kuca K. Evaluation of natural substances from Evolvulus alsinoides L. with the purpose of determining their antioxidant potency. J Enz Inhib Med Chem. 2008. 23(4); 574-578.
- Purohit MG, Shanthaveerappa BK, Badami S, Swamy HKS, Badami S. Antiulcer and anticatatonic activity of alcoholic extract of evolvulus alsinoides (convolvulaceae). Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences. May-Jun1996; 58(3): 110-112.
