Indian Snakeroot (Rauwolfia serpentina): What You Need to Know

Want a quick, clear take on Indian snakeroot? This herb has a long history in traditional medicine and contains alkaloids like reserpine that can lower blood pressure — but it can also cause serious side effects. Below I’ll explain how it’s used, what to watch for, and how to choose products if you’re thinking about trying it.

What it does and how it works

Indian snakeroot is known mainly for blood pressure and calming effects. The plant’s active compounds (often grouped under the name reserpine) reduce the activity of certain brain chemicals that affect heart rate and blood vessel tension. That’s why some people use it for high blood pressure and agitation. But because it changes brain chemicals, it can affect mood and movement too.

If you’re thinking of using it, treat it like a drug—not just a harmless supplement. Some clinical use of purified reserpine in past decades shows real blood-pressure effects, but whole-plant products vary widely in strength and purity.

Safety, side effects, and interactions

Common short-term effects include dizziness, low blood pressure (especially when standing), nasal stuffiness, stomach upset, and tiredness. More seriously, reserpine can cause or worsen depression and can produce Parkinson-like symptoms (slowness, stiffness). Those aren’t rare side effects — they’re the main reasons modern doctors limit reserpine use.

Watch for interactions. Don’t mix Indian snakeroot with other blood-pressure drugs without your doctor’s OK — the combination can drop your blood pressure too far. Avoid it if you take antidepressants, especially MAOIs or certain older drugs; combining them can be risky. Also avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding. If you have a history of depression, Parkinson’s disease, or heart rhythm problems, don’t use it unless a specialist approves.

If you try it, start low and monitor. Check your blood pressure and mood regularly. If you feel dizzy, faint, unusually sad, or stiff, stop and call your provider.

Buying tips: choose brands that list standardized extracts and batch testing. Look for third-party testing for heavy metals and microbes. Avoid products that don’t list the plant name (Rauwolfia serpentina) or that promise quick, dramatic cures. Talk to a pharmacist or clinician who knows herbal medicines — they can help you weigh risks and watch for drug interactions.

Bottom line: Indian snakeroot can affect blood pressure and mood. It has real effects, real risks, and should be used carefully under guidance. If you want help comparing products or checking interactions with your current meds, ask a pharmacist or your healthcare provider before buying or trying it.