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Shankhapushpi is used traditionally to treat nervous debility, insomnia, fatigue, low energy level. Shankhapushpi is used as a brain tonic.
There is a pertinent reference in Ayurvedic literature about the use of the
drug as brain tonic in hypotensive syndromes. The pharmacological studies of the
herb have shown varying degree of its hypotensive and tranquilizing effects.
Clinical studies have exhibited demonstrable beneficial effects in the
patients of anxiety neurosis. The herb induces a feeling of calm and peace, good
sleep and a relief in anxiety, stresses, mental fatigue, producing a significant
reduction in the level of anxiety, neuroticism arising due to various levels of
stresses.
The herb appears to produce its action by modulation of neuro-chemistry of
the brain. Further, the herb is non-toxic and its use does not produce any side
effects. On the other hand, there is invigorating effect in improvement of
health and weight gain.
Ayurvedic classics namely Charak, Sushrita, Astang Sangrah and Astang Harida
provide ample reference for management of various diseases. According to
Ayurvedic concept, Rasayan therapy simultaneously effects the body and mind and
brings about physical and psychic improvement. This therapy prevents the
effects, ageing, develops intelligence and increases the body resistance against
diseases.
There is an imperative need for in-depth scientific investigations on the
specific ideology of medicines and the procedure of Rasayan Chikitsa discussed
in Ayurveda.
The World Health Organisation has laid down that ""Health is a state of
complete physical, mental and social well being and not merely absence of
disease or infirmity"". Rasayana drug in Ayurveda may be equated with modern
immunomodulator drugs since they possess similar properties and perform similar
functions.
A twining perennial herb, Convolvulus pluricaulis occurs in the plains of
Northern Indian and Bihar. The whole plant is one of the most important Medha
Rasayana drugs in Ayurveda. Its use improves the balance and vitiation in
Kapha-vata-pitta doshas and the herb is astringent and bitter.
Chemical studies of whole plant have shown the presence of glycosides,
coumarins, flavonoids and alkaloids. Shankha pushpine, (the alkaloid) has been
identified as active principle. B. sitosterol glycoside, Hydroxy Cinnamic acid,
Octacosanol tetracosane alongwith glucose, sucrose also have been isolated from
the plant drugs. | 
