Convolvulus prostratis

Botanical

What is it

Convolvulus pluricaulis (often labeled Convolvulus prostratus or shankhpushpi) is a small herb used in Ayurveda primarily for cognitive support, memory, and as a mild calming agent.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Cognitive support (traditional Ayurvedic use)

Mixed Evidence

Long traditional use as a medhya rasayana. Small clinical studies of multi-herb formulations including shankhpushpi exist; standalone modern evidence is limited.

How it works

The plant contains scopoletin, hydroxycoumarins, alkaloids, and beta-sitosterol. Animal studies suggest possible cholinesterase inhibition, antioxidant effects, and influence on neurotransmitter systems related to learning and memory. Classical Ayurveda categorizes shankhpushpi as a medhya rasayana (brain rejuvenator). Modern controlled human evidence is limited.

Dosage

Traditional doses range from 3-6 g of dried herb daily, often as a paste with honey or milk. Standardized extracts vary; follow product label.

When and how to take it

Traditional preparations are often taken twice daily, sometimes with warm milk. Follow practitioner or product guidance.

2 commercial forms

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Dried herb powder

Used in many medhya rasayana formulations.

Traditional preparation

Standardized extract

Used in modern Ayurvedic supplements.

Concentrated active compounds

Safety

Generally well-tolerated in traditional doses. Modern controlled safety data are limited.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to limited data. People on cognitive medications should consult a clinician.

Interactions

Possible additive effects with cognitive medications (cholinesterase inhibitors) or sedatives based on traditional pharmacology. Limited specific data.

Frequently asked questions

Is shankhpushpi the same as Convolvulus prostratis?⌄

The botanical identity of shankhpushpi varies in classical sources; Convolvulus pluricaulis is the most commonly used species. Other species are sometimes substituted.

Does it help with memory?⌄

Traditional use supports cognitive applications. Modern controlled evidence is limited.

References

Convolvulus prostratis on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Convolvulus prostratis (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.