Botanical Overview
Hemidesmus indicus (family Apocynaceae) is commonly known as Indian Sarsaparilla, Anantamul, or Sariva. The medicinal part used is the root, prized predominantly in South Asian traditional medicine systems. Native to the Indian subcontinent and parts of Southeast Asia, this woody climber has a long history of applications in herbal therapeutics.
Energetics
The root is considered cooling and moistening in temperament with a sweet and bitter taste profile. It exhibits a relaxing tonicity and primarily nourishes blood and bodily fluids according to Ayurvedic energetics.
Primary Actions
- Blood purifier
- Anti-inflammatory
- Diuretic
- Febrifuge
- Detoxifying
Indications
Western
- Skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis
- Rheumatism and inflammatory joint pain
- Fever and toxic blood states
- Urinary tract infections
- Digestive sluggishness
Syndromes
- Chronic skin diseases
- Rheumatic conditions
TCM
No well-documented traditional Chinese Medicine indications.
Ayurveda
- Skin eruptions and rashes
- Pitta and Kapha imbalances
- Rakta dhatu impurity (blood impurity)
- Fever and joint pain
Syndromes
- Pitta disorders
- Kapha imbalance
Unani
- Fever
- Skin diseases
- Urinary complaints
- Digestive disturbances
Syndromes
- Blood toxemia
- Inflammatory conditions
Constituents & Mechanisms
Phytochemical constituents include saponins, coumarins, flavonoids, glycosides, and tannins that contribute to its anti-inflammatory, blood-purifying, and diuretic properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction: 3-6 g of dried root daily
- Powder: 1-3 g one to two times daily
- Tincture (1:5 in 50% ethanol): 2-5 mL one to three times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Hemidesmus indicus is generally considered safe when used appropriately. However, it should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient safety data. It may have additive effects with diuretics and should be used cautiously in individuals with low blood pressure. Large doses may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-established planetary or elemental rulers identified in credible herbal traditions.
Selected References
- Hemidesmus indicus (L.) R. Br. ex Schult.: Pharmacological Review
- Plants For A Future: Hemidesmus indicus (Indian Sarsaparilla)
- Indian Medicinal Plants – An Illustrated Dictionary, Nadkarni KM (1976)
- Handbook of Medicinal Herbs, Prince M. Arulmozhi et al. (2001)