Indian Snake Root Extracts

Reserpine obtained from Sarpagandha or Indian snakeroot, had been used for centuries in India for snakebites and mental health issues. Reserpine, was identified as the primary bioactive compound in Rauwolfia Serpentina in the 1940s and 1950s.

Early studies revealed its property of inhibiting the levels of neurotransmitters like norepinephrine, serotonin and dopamine, leading to antihypertensive and sedative effects. The identification of Reserpine was influential in increased interest in the study of monoamines in depression and hypertension.

Reserpine inhibits the vesicular monoamine transporters, VMAT1 and VMAT2. This action limits the storage of monoamine neurotransmitters. With no storage, these neurotransmitters are broken down by the enzymes. Norepinephrine is responsible for constricting blood vessels and increasing heart rate. With depleted levels of norepinephrine, the blood vessels are widened and heart rate is regulated. On the other hand, the depleted levels of serotonin and dopamine negatively impact mood and energy levels. Reserpine’s action is irreversible, and the effects persist until new VMAT2 proteins are formed and this can take up to few days.

Reserpine was the popular anti-hypertensive and anti-psychotic drug until the advent of safer and newer drug. Reserpine is administered in smaller doses owing to its profound side effects like stomach disorders, interference with other medications, nausea, vomiting and the most common being nasal congestion.

In current times, it is used in combination therapies and has found applications in veterinary and industrial use – water treatment, agriculture, anti-corrosives, food technology etc.