Convolvulus Pluricaulis (Shankhpushpi)
Convolvulus Pluricaulis (Shankhpushpi)      Convolvulus pluricaulis also known as Shankhpushpi is a prominent memory improving drug, a psychostimulant and tranquilizer in traditional Indian medicine. The plant contains several alkaloids, flavanoids and coumarins as active chemicals that bring about its biological effects. • Memory effects: In a small clinical study, 91% of the patients reported more energy, better sleep, more concentration abilities after 6 weeks of taking Shankpushpi. In experimental animals, there was increased protein synthesis in the hippocampus region of the brain that can be related to enhancement of memory function • Antistress effects: Psychological, chemical and traumatic stress was reduced in experimental animals treated with C. pluricaulis. • Tranquilizing and antidepressant effects: In laboratory mice, C. pluricaulis showed potent antidepressant effects. In another study, extracts of C. pluricaulis caused significant antidepressant-like effect in mice comparable to fluoxetine apparently due to effects on the nervous system through adrenergic, dopaminergic and serotonergic systems, but did not affect the locomotor activity. C. pluricaulis also caused anti-epileptic effects in experimental rats and can suppress the effect of the common anticonvulsant phenytoin Safety Profile      There was mild anti-depressant activity in mice up to 100 mg/Kg body weight when administered daily for 10 days. Herb Drug interactions      Known to reduce the potency of antiepileptic drug phenytoin. Selected relevant published references • Med Sci Monit 13(7):BR155-161, 2007 • J Ethnopharmacol. 35(3): 285-8, 1992 • Indian J Med Sci 54(8): 339-341, 2000 • J Res Indian Med Yoga Homeopathy 12(3): 18, 1977 • Indian Med 1(3): 1-6, 1989