Herb · Asia
Shankhpushpi
Evolvulus alsinoides
Traditionally attributed effects: bitter tonic, cleansing, fever-reducing, expels worms, anti-inflammatory; for fever, nervous weakness, memory loss, dysentery, diarrhoea and indigestion (with tulsi), chronic bronchitis and asthma.
Safety notes
Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Preparation
Tea 24–48 ml (decoction 56–112 ml); powder 3–6 g; leaves as a cigarette.
Use in traditions
Described in the Ayurvedic materia medica. Sanskrit name: Vishnukraanti. Shankhpushpi, 'shell flower', is in Ayurveda a medhya rasayana for memory and calm. Several plants are traded under the name, mainly this one and Convolvulus pluricaulis.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Ayurvedic materia medica
Attributed effects
Bitter tonic, cleansing, fever-reducing, expels worms, anti-inflammatory; for fever, nervous weakness, memory loss, dysentery, diarrhoea and indigestion (with tulsi), chronic bronchitis and asthma.
Preparation and amount
Tea 24–48 ml (decoction 56–112 ml); powder 3–6 g; leaves as a cigarette.
- Ways to prepare herbs
- Tea (infusion)DecoctionPowder and kitchen