Supplement analysis backed by scientific evidence · PT

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Limited evidenceBrain & cognition

Shankhpushpi

An Ayurvedic brain tonic, usually Convolvulus pluricaulis. The published evidence is overwhelmingly animal work; the few human studies are small and poorly controlled.

Evidence last reviewed: August 2026

What the science says

  • Memory and cognition Limited evidence

    An umbrella review covering ethnopharmacology through clinical studies found that most of the memory-enhancing evidence for Convolvulus pluricaulis comes from rodent models, with only a handful of small and methodologically weak clinical reports. The authors called for properly controlled trials.

  • Anxiety and sedation Limited evidence

    Experimental work reports central nervous system depressant and anti-anxiety activity of Convolvulus pluricaulis leaves in animal models. No placebo-controlled human trial supports a calming effect.

  • Product identity varies Limited evidence

    Preparations sold as shankhpushpi may contain Convolvulus pluricaulis, Clitoria ternatea, Evolvulus alsinoides or Canscora decussata, so published findings on one species do not necessarily apply to what is in the bottle.

Dosage & safety

Studied doseTraditional use is roughly 1–3 g/day of the dried whole-plant powder, or an equivalent syrup or extract. No dose has been established in controlled human research.
SafetyHuman safety data are minimal. Reported effects include gastrointestinal upset and drowsiness; additive sedation with sleep medicines, alcohol and anti-anxiety drugs is plausible. Species substitution and heavy-metal contamination have both been documented in Ayurvedic products. Avoid in pregnancy, breastfeeding and in children in the absence of data.

Scientific references

Where to buy

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