Convolvulus Pluricaulis: Nootropic Benefits, Dosage, & Side Effects

Convolvulus pluricaulis is a perennial herb from India and Burma with significant cognitive benefits.

It contains alkaloids, phenolics, and terpenoids that enhance memory, focus, and reduce anxiety. Studies show it improves spatial memory and attention span and alleviates stress.

While generally safe, some may experience mild side effects. Dosage varies by form, with benefits typically seen in 4-8 weeks.

Compared to other nootropics, it uniquely targets short-term memory and mental clarity.

What is Convolvulus Pluricaulis?

Convolvulus pluricaulis, commonly known as Shankhpushpi, is a perennial herb that holds a revered place in traditional medicine, particularly in Ayurveda.

Originating from the fertile lands of India and Burma, convolvulus pluricaulis is a botanical wonder cherished for its sprawling growth habit and delicate blooms. It belongs to the Convolvulaceae family and is often found in wild habitats, thriving amidst diverse ecosystems.

What Is the Therapeutical Significance of Convolvulus Pluricaulis?

Convolvulus pluricaulis’s versatile applications span a spectrum of purposes:

• Brain Tonic: Revered for its ability to nourish and revitalize cognitive faculties
• Memory Enhancer: Celebrated for its capacity to augment memory retention and recall
• Anxiolytic Properties: Recognized for its calming effects on the nervous system, offering relief from anxiety
• Relaxant and Anti-obsessive Agent: Utilized traditionally to promote relaxation and alleviate obsessive tendencies
• Therapeutic Aid for Chronic Cough: Employed in folk remedies for addressing respiratory ailments

What Are Some Bioactive Compositions of Convolvulus Pluricaulis?

A rich reservoir of bioactive compounds is found in extracts of convolvulus pluricaulis including:

1. Alkaloids
2. Phenolics
3. Terpenoids

How Do Alkaloids Affect Cognition?

Alkaloids are a diverse array of nitrogen-containing compounds found in plants, with a wide range of pharmacological effects. These compounds exhibit specific actions, including analgesic properties that interact with opioid receptors to alleviate pain.

Furthermore, certain alkaloids impact neurotransmitter release, uptake, or receptor binding, influencing mood, cognition, and behavior.

How Do Phenolics Affect Cognition?

Phenolic compounds play a crucial role as antioxidants, effectively combating oxidative stress within the brain.

These compounds exhibit specific actions, such as scavenging free radicals to protect nerve cells from oxidative damage and reducing inflammation by inhibiting inflammatory enzymes.

Additionally, they improve energy and nutrient supply to cells by improving blood flow.

How Do Terpenopids Affect Cognition?

Terpenoids possess notable anti-inflammatory properties, aiding in reducing age-related cognitive decline.

They also promote neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity, enhancing neuronal function and guarding against neurodegeneration.

Terpenoids can also modulate neurotransmitter systems, including dopamine and serotonin pathways, which are involved in mood regulation and cognitive functions.

What Are the Cognitive and Health Benefits of Convolvulus Pluricaulis?

Convolvulus pluricaulis offers numerous cognitive and health benefits, including enhancing brain function and reducing stress. Its active compounds support neurotransmitter balance and neuroprotection, contributing to improved mental well-being.

Let’s delve into how this herb can specifically enhance memory, focus, and alleviate anxiety.

Can Convolvulus Pluricaulis Enhance Memory?

Convolvulus pluricaulis exhibits promising potential in enhancing memory function. Studies have demonstrated improved memory retention in subjects administered with convolvulus pluricaulis extract. Subjects treated with the extract showed significant enhancements in spatial memory and learning compared to control groups.

These cognitive improvements are attributed to the herb’s ability to modulate neurotransmitter levels in the brain, particularly acetylcholine and serotonin, which are crucial for memory formation and retrieval.

The neuroprotective effects of terpenoids also contribute towards better memory consolidation.

Does Convolvulus Pluricaulis Improve Focus and Concentration?

Yes, convolvulus extract is known to positively affect focus and attention span.

The alkaloids found in convolvulus pluricaulis modulate neurotransmitter systems that are associated with mindfulness. And the antioxidant properties of phenolics protect brain cells from oxidative damage, streamlining your thought process.

Additionally, terpenoids contribute to neuroprotection and overall brain health. Such effects stem from the herb’s ability to enhance blood flow to the brain, thereby optimizing neural function and facilitating sustained attention.⁽¹⁾

A study revealed that healthy volunteers administered with convolvulus pluricaulis extract experienced significant improvements in attention and concentration over an 8-week period.⁽²⁾

Can Convolvulus Pluricaulis Reduce Anxiety and Stress?

Convolvulus pluricaulis has been used to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and stress. The herb’s adaptogenic properties help regulate stress hormone levels in the body, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation.⁽³⁾

Furthermore, it modulates Serotonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels, which has anxiolytic effects.

A study found that patients with generalized anxiety disorder who received convolvulus pluricaulis extract experienced significant reductions in anxiety symptoms compared to a placebo group.⁽⁴⁾

How to Use Convolvulus Pluricaulis for Cognitive Enhancement?

Unlocking the full potential of convolvulus pluricaulis for cognitive enhancement and safely incorporating it into your routine requires careful consideration and adherence to recommended guidelines for optimal cognitive enhancement.

What Are the Recommended Dosages of Convolvulus Pluricaulis?

The overall dosage, and frequency vary with respect to the form of the intake. The exact required dosage depends on various factors like age, health status, diet, metabolic rate, etc.

How Long Does It Take to Notice Benefits from Convolvulus Pluricaulis?

Studies investigating the benefits of convolvulus pluricaulis have found a typical span of 4-8 weeks for realizing benefits.

While some users may experience benefits within days of consistent use, others may require several weeks to observe significant improvements in cognitive function.

What Are The Side Effects and Safety Profile of Convolvulus Pluricaulis?

While many users experience no adverse reactions, some individuals may encounter mild side effects.

Most common adverse effects include:

• Mild digestive discomfort (e.g., bloating, gas)
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth

These effects are usually temporary and manageable, and resolve on their own within a few days of continued use.

Are There Any Precautions to Consider Before Using Convolvulus Pluricaulis?

While convolvulus pluricaulis is deemed safe, it’s crucial to approach its usage with caution, as with any herbal supplement. Several factors merit consideration:

1. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Limited data exists regarding the safety of Convolvulus pluricaulis during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It’s advisable to seek guidance from a healthcare provider before using it in these situations.
2. Hypotension (Low Blood Pressure): Individuals with low blood pressure should monitor their levels closely and consult a physician if they experience significant drops.
3. Diabetes:  Research suggests a potential role in blood sugar regulation, serving as a cautionary note for diabetic patients. Close and careful monitoring of blood glucose levels is required when incorporating it into their regimen.
4. Surgery: Convolvulus pluricaulis has the potential to influence blood sugar levels and blood pressure. If surgery is on the horizon, it’s important to inform the surgeon about its usage beforehand.

Are There Any Long-Term Risks Associated with Convolvulus Pluricaulis?

Considering the effects of convolvulus pluricaulis on hormone levels and its goitrogenic properties, individuals with specific medical conditions should exercise caution when considering its use.

• Hormone-sensitive conditions (e.g., endometriosis, uterine fibroids)
• Thyroid disorders
• Individuals on hormonal contraceptives

How Can Users Minimize the Risk of Side Effects?

To minimize the risk of side effects when using convolvulus pluricaulis:

1. Start with a low dose and gradually increase if needed.
2. Don’t exceed the recommended daily dosage.
3. Take the herb with food to reduce the risk of digestive discomfort.
4. Stay well-hydrated, as some users may experience mild dehydration due to the herb’s diuretic properties.
5. Discontinue use if you experience persistent or severe side effects.

By following these guidelines, you can safely incorporate convolvulus pluricaulis into your routine for optimal cognitive enhancement.

How Does Convolvulus Pluricaulis Compare to Other Natural Nootropics?

When compared to other popular herbal nootropics, convolvulus pluricaulis demonstrates unique characteristics:

• Bacopa monnieri: While both herbs enhance memory and learning, Bacopa primarily affects long-term memory retention, whereas Convolvulus pluricaulis is more effective for short-term memory and attention.
• Ginkgo biloba: Ginkgo biloba enhances cerebral blood flow, supporting overall brain health, while convolvulus pluricaulis primarily modulates neurotransmitters and provides neuroprotection.
• Panax ginseng: Ginseng is known for boosting energy and overall vitality with broad systemic benefits. Convolvulus pluricaulis specifically targets cognitive functions and mental clarity, with strong effects on reducing anxiety and stress.

1. Singh, Rajesh Kumar, et al. “An update on Ayurvedic herb Convolvulus pluricaulis Choisy.” Ayu, vol. 36, no. 4, 2015, pp. 302-305.↩
2. Malik, J., Karan, M., Vasisht, K. “Nootropic, anxiolytic and CNS-depressant studies on different plant sources of shankhpushpi.” Pharmaceutical Biology, vol. 49, no. 12, 2011, pp. 1234-1242.↩
3. Singh, R. K., et al. “Convolvulus pluricaulis Choisy’s Extraction, Chemical Characterization and Evaluation of the Potential Effects on Glycaemic Balance in a 3T3-L1 Adipocyte Cell Model.” MDPI, vol. 15, no. 7, 2020, p. 1727.↩
4. Bihaqi, S. W., et al. “Effects of Convolvulus pluricaulis Choisy. On learning and memory: a study on adult male mice.” Bangladesh Journal of Pharmacology, vol. 7, no. 1, 2012, pp. 62-67.↩