{"product_id":"shankhpushpi","title":"Shankhpushpi","description":"\u003ch1\u003e\u003cem\u003eConvolvulus pluricaulis\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShankhpushpi — Ayurveda's Premier Brain Tonic, a Medhya Rasayana for Memory, Focus, and Mental Clarity\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eBotanical Identification\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpecies:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem\u003eConvolvulus pluricaulis\u003c\/em\u003e Choisy\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFamily:\u003c\/strong\u003e Convolvulaceae (Morning Glory family)\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCommon Names:\u003c\/strong\u003e Shankhpushpi, Shankhahuli, Shankha Pushpi, \u003cem\u003eVishnukranti\u003c\/em\u003e (sometimes confused with \u003cem\u003eEvolvulus alsinoides\u003c\/em\u003e), Speed Wort, Aloe Weed\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePart Used:\u003c\/strong\u003e Whole plant (herb) — stems, leaves, flowers, and roots are all used traditionally\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNative Range:\u003c\/strong\u003e Indian subcontinent; grows wild across the plains and lower hills of India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAppearance:\u003c\/strong\u003e A low, spreading, perennial herb with multiple prostrate branches reaching 10-30 cm. Leaves are small, lanceolate, and covered with fine silky hairs. Flowers are small, funnel-shaped, and typically white or pale blue — their conch-shell shape gives the plant its Sanskrit name (\u003cem\u003eShankha\u003c\/em\u003e = conch, \u003cem\u003ePushpi\u003c\/em\u003e = flower).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBotanical Note:\u003c\/strong\u003e Several plants are sold as \"Shankhpushpi\" in different regions of India. The most authoritative identification, supported by the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, is \u003cem\u003eConvolvulus pluricaulis\u003c\/em\u003e. Other species sometimes marketed under this name include \u003cem\u003eEvolvulus alsinoides\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eClitoria ternatea\u003c\/em\u003e, and \u003cem\u003eCanscora decussata\u003c\/em\u003e. Each has its own pharmacological profile. This product is \u003cem\u003eConvolvulus pluricaulis\u003c\/em\u003e, the classical Shankhpushpi of the major Ayurvedic texts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCultural and Historical Use\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShankhpushpi occupies an exceptional position in Ayurvedic pharmacology. It is classified as one of the four \u003cstrong\u003eMedhya Rasayanas\u003c\/strong\u003e — the elite category of herbs specifically designated for enhancing \u003cem\u003eMedha\u003c\/em\u003e (intellect, memory, and cognitive function). This classification comes directly from the \u003cem\u003eCharaka Samhita\u003c\/em\u003e (ca. 300 BCE - 200 CE), the foundational text of Ayurvedic medicine, where the sage Charaka lists only four plants in this supreme nootropic category: Shankhpushpi (\u003cem\u003eConvolvulus pluricaulis\u003c\/em\u003e), Brahmi (\u003cem\u003eBacopa monnieri\u003c\/em\u003e), Mandukaparni (\u003cem\u003eCentella asiatica\u003c\/em\u003e), and Yashtimadhu (\u003cem\u003eGlycyrrhiza glabra\u003c\/em\u003e).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCharaka states that Shankhpushpi is the foremost among the Medhya Rasayanas — in other words, the single best herb for the mind in the entire Ayurvedic materia medica. The \u003cem\u003eBhavaprakash Nighantu\u003c\/em\u003e (16th century) elaborates that Shankhpushpi enhances memory, improves voice, complexion, and digestive power, and is a supreme \u003cem\u003eRasayana\u003c\/em\u003e (rejuvenative). The \u003cem\u003eSushruta Samhita\u003c\/em\u003e prescribes it for \u003cem\u003eUnmada\u003c\/em\u003e (psychosis\/mental disorders) and \u003cem\u003eApasmara\u003c\/em\u003e (epilepsy), indicating its traditional use extends beyond simple cognitive enhancement to serious neurological and psychiatric conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn traditional village practice across rural India, Shankhpushpi paste or juice is given to school children during examination periods to improve memory and concentration — a practice that continues to this day and has motivated considerable modern pharmacological research.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eKey Bioactive Compounds\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellpadding=\"6\" cellspacing=\"0\"\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCompound Class\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePrimary Constituents\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eRelevance\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTropane alkaloids\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShankhpushpine, convolamine, convoline, convolvine\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNeuroactive alkaloids with potential anxiolytic and memory-enhancing activity\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFlavonoids and glycosides\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eKaempferol, sterols, and their glycosides\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAntioxidant and neuroprotective effects; support cerebral blood flow\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCoumarins\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eScopoletin, scopolin\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAnti-inflammatory and mild sedative activity; may modulate GABAergic signaling\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTriterpenoids\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eShankhpushpine (also classified here by some authors), phytosterols\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eContribute to adaptogenic and anti-stress properties\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eVolatile compounds\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eVarious terpenoids\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMay contribute to the calming sensory profile of the herb\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCarbohydrates and glycosides\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eD-glucose, rhamnose, sucrose conjugates\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMay serve as carrier molecules enhancing bioavailability of active constituents\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eHow It Works in the Body\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eModern pharmacological studies — primarily from Indian research institutions — have identified several mechanisms that support Shankhpushpi's traditional Medhya Rasayana classification:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCholinergic Enhancement:\u003c\/strong\u003e Shankhpushpi extracts have demonstrated acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitory activity in multiple in vitro and animal studies. By slowing the breakdown of acetylcholine — the primary neurotransmitter of learning and memory — Shankhpushpi may support cholinergic transmission in the hippocampus and cortex, the brain regions most critical for memory formation and recall. This mechanism parallels the action of pharmaceutical nootropics like donepezil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAnxiolytic and GABAergic Activity:\u003c\/strong\u003e Animal studies have shown that Shankhpushpi extract produces significant anxiolytic effects comparable to the benzodiazepine diazepam, but without the sedative motor impairment. The coumarins scopoletin and scopolin are thought to modulate GABA-A receptor activity, promoting calm without cognitive dulling. This dual action — enhanced cognition \u003cem\u003eand\u003c\/em\u003e reduced anxiety — is the hallmark of a true Medhya Rasayana.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNeuroprotection:\u003c\/strong\u003e The flavonoids and alkaloids in Shankhpushpi have shown protective effects against oxidative stress in brain tissue, reducing lipid peroxidation and increasing endogenous antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase) in animal models of neurotoxicity. This suggests a role in protecting neurons from age-related and stress-related damage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThyroid Modulation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Notably, some studies have reported that Shankhpushpi extract can reduce circulating T3 and T4 thyroid hormone levels in animal models. This is an important pharmacological observation — while it may be beneficial in hyperthyroid conditions, it requires awareness in hypothyroid individuals (see Safety section).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAnticonvulsant Activity:\u003c\/strong\u003e Animal research has confirmed traditional claims of anti-epileptic activity, with Shankhpushpi extracts raising the seizure threshold in multiple experimental models — consistent with its classical use for \u003cem\u003eApasmara\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eDose Guidelines\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellpadding=\"6\" cellspacing=\"0\"\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eForm\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eAdult Dose\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eTiming\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eNotes\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDried whole herb powder\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e3-6 g daily\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDivided into 2 doses, morning and evening\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTraditional method: mix with warm milk or water and honey\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFresh juice (\u003cem\u003eSwarasa\u003c\/em\u003e)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e10-20 mL\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOnce or twice daily\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eThe classical Ayurvedic preparation; fresh juice considered most potent\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDecoction (\u003cem\u003eKwatha\u003c\/em\u003e)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e50-100 mL of prepared decoction\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTwice daily\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBoil 5-10 g of dried herb in 200 mL water, reduce to half\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eStandardized extract\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e250-500 mg\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOnce or twice daily\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFollow manufacturer specifications for extract ratio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTraditional Ayurvedic Vehicle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Shankhpushpi is classically taken with warm milk and ghee — the lipid medium is said to enhance absorption of the fat-soluble active compounds and carry them to brain tissue (\u003cem\u003eMajja Dhatu\u003c\/em\u003e).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePreparation and Uses\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eShankhpushpi Milk (Traditional Method):\u003c\/strong\u003e Mix 3-5 g of Shankhpushpi powder into a cup of warm milk with 1\/2 teaspoon of ghee and honey to taste. Drink in the evening for calm mental clarity and restful sleep, or in the morning for focus and memory support.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSimple Tea\/Decoction:\u003c\/strong\u003e Simmer 3-5 g of the dried herb in 250 mL of water for 10-15 minutes. Strain and drink warm. Can be enhanced with a small piece of fresh ginger and honey.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBrahmi-Shankhpushpi Combination:\u003c\/strong\u003e The two premier Medhya Rasayanas are often combined for synergistic cognitive support. Mix equal parts Shankhpushpi and Brahmi powder (1.5-3 g of each) and take with warm milk or water.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStudy and Exam Preparation:\u003c\/strong\u003e In the traditional practice, students take Shankhpushpi daily for several weeks before examinations. The herb is said to improve retention, recall, and mental endurance during intensive study periods.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCapsules:\u003c\/strong\u003e For those who prefer to avoid the taste, fill capsules with Shankhpushpi powder. The mild, slightly bitter flavor is not unpleasant but is unfamiliar to Western palates.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eShankhpushpi Ghee (Medicated Ghee):\u003c\/strong\u003e An advanced Ayurvedic preparation where the herb is cooked into clarified butter over low heat. This \u003cem\u003eGhrita\u003c\/em\u003e preparation is considered the most effective delivery form for brain-targeting herbs in classical Ayurveda.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eOptimal Context for Use\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCognitive enhancement and memory support:\u003c\/strong\u003e This is Shankhpushpi's primary domain — improving learning, memory consolidation, recall, and mental clarity.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAnxiety and mental restlessness:\u003c\/strong\u003e The combination of nootropic and anxiolytic effects makes Shankhpushpi valuable for individuals whose cognitive performance is hindered by anxiety, stress, or racing thoughts.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStudents and knowledge workers:\u003c\/strong\u003e Those engaged in intensive study, creative work, or knowledge-intensive professions may benefit from daily Shankhpushpi supplementation.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAge-related cognitive support:\u003c\/strong\u003e The neuroprotective and antioxidant properties make Shankhpushpi relevant for supporting cognitive function in aging individuals.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSleep quality:\u003c\/strong\u003e Despite being a cognitive enhancer, Shankhpushpi has a calming rather than stimulating quality. Taking it in the evening may improve sleep quality and next-day mental clarity — a rare combination among nootropic herbs.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAdjunct in stress-related mental fatigue:\u003c\/strong\u003e The adaptogenic and anxiolytic properties help restore cognitive function depleted by chronic stress.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eSustainability and Ethical Harvesting\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eConvolvulus pluricaulis\u003c\/em\u003e is an abundant, weedy, fast-growing herb that colonizes roadsides, field margins, and waste ground across the Indian plains. It is not a rare or threatened species. Increasing commercial demand has led to cultivation programs in several Indian states, reducing pressure on wild populations. The plant's vigorous growth habit and ability to thrive in poor soils make it highly amenable to sustainable cultivation. Our Shankhpushpi is sourced from Indian suppliers who utilize a combination of cultivated and sustainably wild-collected material.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eSafety and Cautions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThyroid interaction:\u003c\/strong\u003e This is the most important safety consideration. Animal studies have shown that Shankhpushpi may suppress thyroid hormone (T3 and T4) levels. Individuals with hypothyroidism or those taking thyroid replacement therapy (levothyroxine) should use Shankhpushpi only under the guidance of a qualified practitioner and with monitoring of thyroid function.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePregnancy and breastfeeding:\u003c\/strong\u003e Avoid during pregnancy due to insufficient safety data and potential hormonal effects. Not recommended during breastfeeding without professional guidance.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDrug interactions:\u003c\/strong\u003e Due to its GABAergic and sedative properties, Shankhpushpi may potentiate the effects of benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and other CNS depressants. Use caution with anti-epileptic medications. The thyroid-suppressing effect may interact with thyroid medications and antithyroid drugs.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBotanical identity:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ensure your Shankhpushpi is correctly identified as \u003cem\u003eConvolvulus pluricaulis\u003c\/em\u003e. Several unrelated species are sold under the same common name in different regions of India, each with different safety profiles.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGenerally well-tolerated:\u003c\/strong\u003e At traditional doses, Shankhpushpi has a long history of safe use in Ayurvedic practice. Side effects at normal doses are uncommon. Some individuals may experience mild drowsiness, which typically resolves with dose adjustment.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis product is sold as a botanical specimen and herbal supplement. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before use, especially if you have thyroid conditions or are taking medications.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eReferences\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSethiya, N. K., et al. \"An Update on Shankhpushpi, a Cognition-Boosting Ayurvedic Medicine.\" \u003cem\u003eJournal of Chinese Integrative Medicine,\u003c\/em\u003e 7(11):1001-1022, 2009.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMalik, J., et al. \"Shankhpushpi (\u003cem\u003eConvolvulus pluricaulis\u003c\/em\u003e): Traditional, Phytochemical, and Pharmacological Properties.\" \u003cem\u003eInternational Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences Review and Research,\u003c\/em\u003e 48(1):188-196, 2018.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNahata, A., et al. \"Effect of \u003cem\u003eConvolvulus pluricaulis\u003c\/em\u003e on Learning and Memory in Rats.\" \u003cem\u003eNatural Product Research,\u003c\/em\u003e 22(16):1472-1482, 2008.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSharma, P. V. \u003cem\u003eCharaka Samhita: Text with English Translation.\u003c\/em\u003e Chaukhambha Orientalia, Varanasi, 2001.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePatel, D. K., et al. \"Shankhpushpi as a Brain Tonic: A Review.\" \u003cem\u003eJournal of Herbal Medicine and Toxicology,\u003c\/em\u003e 5(2):19-23, 2011.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBhowmik, D., et al. \"Traditional and Medicinal Uses of \u003cem\u003eConvolvulus pluricaulis\u003c\/em\u003e.\" \u003cem\u003eJournal of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Research,\u003c\/em\u003e 4(12):5003-5007, 2012.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAyurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. \u003cem\u003ePart I, Vol. II: Shankhpushpi Monograph.\u003c\/em\u003e Government of India, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFinal Note\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShankhpushpi stands at the pinnacle of Ayurveda's cognitive pharmacology — the single herb that Charaka, the father of Ayurvedic medicine, named as the foremost Medhya Rasayana above all others. What makes it remarkable in modern terms is the rare combination of cognitive enhancement \u003cem\u003ewithout\u003c\/em\u003e stimulation: it sharpens memory and learning while simultaneously calming anxiety and promoting mental tranquility. Most nootropic substances sacrifice one for the other. Shankhpushpi, supported by a growing body of pharmacological research, appears to improve both sides of the equation. For students, professionals, aging individuals, or anyone seeking clearer thinking with a calmer mind, this ancient brain tonic deserves serious consideration — and the respect of proper dosing, awareness of thyroid interactions, and realistic expectations grounded in its traditional context.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sugar Creek Trading Company","offers":[{"title":"powder \/ 25g","offer_id":51057531683114,"sku":null,"price":8.85,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"powder \/ 50g","offer_id":51057531715882,"sku":null,"price":15.04,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"powder \/ 100g","offer_id":51057531748650,"sku":null,"price":28.28,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"powder \/ 250g","offer_id":51057531781418,"sku":null,"price":60.1,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"powder \/ 500g","offer_id":51057531814186,"sku":null,"price":111.79,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"powder \/ 1kg","offer_id":51057531846954,"sku":null,"price":210.17,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"powder \/ 2kg","offer_id":51057531879722,"sku":null,"price":399.32,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"powder \/ 5kg","offer_id":51057531912490,"sku":null,"price":948.39,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"powder \/ 10kg","offer_id":51057531945258,"sku":null,"price":1801.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"powder \/ 25kg","offer_id":51057531978026,"sku":null,"price":4279.62,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"powder \/ 50kg","offer_id":51057532010794,"sku":null,"price":8131.29,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"powder \/ 100kg","offer_id":51057532043562,"sku":null,"price":15449.45,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0783\/3547\/6010\/files\/shankhpushpi_6d9b29c2-c148-42d2-a649-f79a0a554f4b.png?v=1772272164","url":"https:\/\/sugarcreektradingcompany.com\/it\/products\/shankhpushpi","provider":"Sugar Creek Trading Company","version":"1.0","type":"link"}