Potential Uses of Shankhpushpi:
The herb has diverse potential
benefits for various systems of the body which are as follows:
Potential Use of Shankhpushpi for Memory and ADHD
Shankhpushpi may have nootropic
potential i.e., it may have potential effect on memory, learning
capacity and concentration in the person consuming it. It may be able to have
some effect on conditions like attention deficit hyperactivity
disorder (ADHD), which is usually seen in children, wherein the child
has trouble paying attention, controlling impulsive behaviors or is overly
active. However the studies available are insufficient to validate
such claims and the exact effects on humans. You must consult a qualified
doctor for proper advice and prescription.
Potential Use of Shankhpushpi in Alzheimer’s
Disease & Dementia
Shankhpushpi may have neuroprotective potential, this
indicates that it may have some beneficial effects on
mental functions. Its antioxidant potential
and anti-inflammatory potential may have possible benefit
over brain functions like learning, thinking, reasoning,
remembering, problem-solving, decision making, and attention. You must consult
a qualified doctor for proper advice and guidance.
Potential Use of Shankhpushpi in Depression
Due to its potential anti-depressant activity,
shankhpushpi may be able to enhance the mood of the person consuming
the herb. You must always take advise from a professional Ayurvedic doctor
before consuming the plant preparations in depression-like
conditions.
Potential
Use of Shankhpushpi for the Heart
and Blood Vessels:
The herb shankhpushpi may have some effect on lowering
blood pressure and is usually given to treat high blood pressure
along with other herbal compounds. Various animal studies have revealed that its
extracts lower Low-Density Lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-CH) which
is the bad cholesterol, triglycerides (TG), and phospholipid levels.
However, the studies on humans are insufficient to establish these benefits. Shankhpushpi may also be used in patients with high
cholesterol due to its potential ability to lower cholesterol. Shankhpushpi may have the potential effect on these conditions.
However, you must consult a qualified doctor for the mentioned conditions for
proper prescription and detailed guidance.
Potential
Use of Shankhpushpi for the Stomach:
The glycoprotein secretions of the herb may
have shown some effect against various types of ulcers in the
stomach. It may help in healing stomach ulcers. But we need further
studies to establish these benefits.
Potential
Use of Shankhpushpi for the Skin:
It may make the skin glow. It may help with acne or pimples, which
is usually very problematic in the teenage years of life. It may also help with skin infections. All
these above potential uses are due to its
anti-bacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory
properties. You must consult a dermatologist for proper advice on skin
conditions.
Other Potential use of Shankhpushpi
The extract of shankhpushpi and compounds like tannins,
saponins, coumarin, flavonoids, phenol and triterpenoids
that are present in shankpushpi contribute to its activity
against various bacteria. Shankhpushpi may be able to reduce the risk
of epilepsy or fits. Shankhpushpi may show anxiolytic
activity i.e., it may induce a feeling
of peace and calm, reduce stress and mental tiredness
and improve sleep. As it may have the ability to lower blood sugar
levels and thus may be used in persons
with diabetes. These benefits may need further studies to establish. Though studies show the benefits of shankhpushpi against various
disease conditions, these studies are insufficient and there is a need for
further studies to establish the true extent of the benefits of shankhpushpi on
human health.