Convolvulus pluricaulis, commonly called Shankhpushpi (Aloe weed in English), is a traditional Indian herbal medicine. In appearance, the plant is similar to morning glory, and it grows trailing along the ground and possesses blue flowers. A number of physiological changes have been noted following administration of Convolvulus pluricaulis to humans, and this includes a normalisation of blood cholesterol and triglyceride values, as well as a lowering of circulating non-esterified fatty acids. This suggests that the plant has adaptogenic properties and may have protective effects against the development of metabolic syndrome. The herb can also be used as a brain tonic, which includes the ability to cause mental stimulation and to enhance memory, and this suggests that it might be useful in the treatment of mood disorder such as anxiety or depression. At higher doses, the herb may also possess tranquilising effects, and may enhance sleep. Convolvulus pluricaulis differs from other brain tonic herbs in that it appear to particularly enhance all aspects of memory in a very efficient manner.
One aspect of health that is detrimentally affected by anxiety and depression is the amount of energy available to the individual, accompanied by problems with weight gain. Evidence suggests that Convolvulus pluricaulis is able to invigorate energy levels and reduce weight gain seen with mood disorders. This fits with the idea that the herb is a general adaptogenic tonic, and is able to stabilise normal physiological parameters. Image is Convolvulus pluricaulis from Bhowmik et al., 2012).
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