Shankhpushpi

Botanical Name: Convolvulus pluricaulis
Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis) is a revered Ayurvedic herb known for its Medhya Rasayana (brain-boosting) properties. Traditionally used as a memory enhancer, stress reliever, and rejuvenator, this potent herb supports cognitive function, mental well-being, digestion, and skin health. Its adaptogenic and neuroprotective properties make it beneficial for individuals dealing with stress, anxiety, insomnia, and cognitive decline.
Benefits of Shankhpushpi
1. Brain Health & Cognitive Function
🧠 Enhances Memory & Focus: Boosts brain function and improves concentration due to its Medhya (intellect-promoting) properties.
🌿 Relieves Stress & Anxiety: Acts as a natural stress reliever and calms the nervous system.
😴 Promotes Restful Sleep: Helps manage insomnia by reducing mental restlessness.
🎯 Supports ADHD Management: Improves attention span and cognitive performance in children.
⚡ Neuroprotective Benefits: May reduce the risk of neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
2. Skin Health & Anti-Aging
✨ Prevents Wrinkles & Fine Lines: Slows skin aging due to its Rasayana (rejuvenating) property.
🧴 Treats Acne & Pimples: Controls excess oil secretion and soothes inflammation.
🩹 Aids Wound Healing: Accelerates skin regeneration and soothes irritation.
3. Hair Care & Scalp Nourishment
💆♂️ Reduces Hair Fall: Strengthens hair roots and minimizes hair thinning.
🌿 Delays Premature Greying: Nourishes the scalp and enhances hair pigmentation.
4. Digestive Health & Metabolism
🍽 Improves Digestion: Stimulates digestive enzymes, reducing indigestion, bloating, and constipation.
💚 Supports Liver Health: Helps in detoxification and protects against liver disorders.
🔥 Boosts Metabolism: Enhances metabolic function and promotes gut health.
How To Use Shankhpushpi?
1. Shankhpushpi Powder
💊 Dosage: ¼ – ½ teaspoon twice daily with warm milk or water.
✅ Benefits: Enhances memory, reduces stress, and improves digestion.
🧴 For Skin: Mix with honey and apply as a face pack to reduce acne and wrinkles.
2. Shankhpushpi Juice
🥤 Dosage: 2 – 4 teaspoons once or twice daily with water.
✅ Benefits: Boosts cognitive function, relieves stress, and supports digestion.
3. Shankhpushpi Capsules/Tablets
💊 Dosage: 1 – 2 capsules or tablets twice daily after meals.
✅ Benefits: Supports mental clarity, reduces anxiety, and enhances focus.
4. Shankhpushpi Oil
💆♀️ Application: Massage a few drops onto the scalp before bedtime.
✅ Benefits: Strengthens hair, nourishes the scalp, and promotes relaxation.
5. Shankhpushpi Decoction for Wound Healing
🫖 Preparation: Boil ½ teaspoon powder in 2 cups of water until reduced to 1 cup.
✅ Usage: Cool and apply to wounds for faster healing.
6. Shankhpushpi Face Pack for Acne & Wrinkles
🌿 Preparation: Mix ½ teaspoon powder with honey and apply to the face.
⏳ Duration: Leave for 20 minutes before rinsing.
✅ Benefits: Reduces acne, soothes inflammation, and hydrates the skin.
Recommended Dosage of Shankhpushpi
Form | Dosage | Usage |
---|---|---|
Shankhpushpi Powder | ¼ – ½ teaspoon twice daily | With milk or water |
Shankhpushpi Juice | 2 – 4 teaspoons twice daily | Mixed with water |
Shankhpushpi Capsules | 1 – 2 capsules twice daily | After meals |
Shankhpushpi Tablets | 1 – 2 tablets twice daily | After meals |
Shankhpushpi Oil | Few drops | Applied to scalp/hair |
Precautions While Using Shankhpushpi
⚠️ Pregnancy & Lactation: Consult a healthcare professional before use.
⚠️ Low Blood Pressure: May further reduce blood pressure due to its calming effect.
⚠️ Excessive Use: Overconsumption may cause nausea or digestive discomfort.
⚠️ Diabetes Management: Monitor blood sugar levels if using Shankhpushpi regularly.
(It is advisable to consult a physician before starting any Ayurvedic supplement, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions.)
FAQs
🔹 1. Can Shankhpushpi be taken daily?
Yes, it is safe for daily consumption in recommended doses for cognitive and overall health benefits.
🔹 2. How long does it take to see results?
Cognitive benefits may be noticeable within a few weeks, while skin and digestive improvements may take a month or more.
🔹 3. Can children take Shankhpushpi?
Yes, in small doses, it can help improve focus and memory in children. However, consult a doctor before use.
🔹 4. Is Shankhpushpi good for anxiety?
Yes, it has natural calming properties that help reduce stress, anxiety, and restlessness.
🔹 5. Can Shankhpushpi be used for hair growth?
Yes, applying Shankhpushpi oil can nourish the scalp, reduce hair fall, and prevent premature greying.
Conclusion
Shankhpushpi is a powerful Ayurvedic herb known for its brain-boosting, stress-relieving, and rejuvenating properties. Whether consumed as a powder, juice, or capsule or applied as an oil or face pack, it plays a crucial role in cognitive health, skin vitality, digestion, and hair care. Regular use of Shankhpushpi in recommended doses can enhance memory, relieve stress, improve digestion, and promote overall well-being naturally.
References
1️⃣ Charaka Samhita – Ancient Ayurvedic text highlighting the Medhya (brain-boosting) properties of Shankhpushpi.
2️⃣ Sushruta Samhita – Describes the adaptogenic and neuroprotective effects of Shankhpushpi.
3️⃣ Bhavaprakasha Nighantu – Mentions Shankhpushpi as a Rasayana herb beneficial for mental clarity and rejuvenation.
4️⃣ Dwivedi S. (2007). Convolvulus pluricaulis: A potential brain tonic. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 114(2), 114–129.
5️⃣ Kapoor MP, Suzuki K, Banerjee S. (2014). Shankhpushpi’s role in reducing anxiety and enhancing cognitive function. Phytomedicine, 21(9), 1103–1110.
6️⃣ Gauthaman K, Maulik N. (2011). Effect of Shankhpushpi extract on memory and stress-related disorders. Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine, 8(1).
7️⃣ The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India – Official documentation of Shankhpushpi’s medicinal benefits.
(References compiled from Ayurvedic scriptures, research journals, and modern pharmacological studies.)

Reviewed By
Dr. Sapna Kangotra
Senior Ayurveda Doctor