Question

Rauwolfia serpentina is used in
A. Curing high blood pressure
B. Kidney failure
C. Eye defect
D. Diabetes

Answer 1

Hint: Rauwolfia serpentina known as sarpagandha. It is a perennial shrub which is widely found in India. It is a species of flowering plant of the family Apocynaceae. It is an effective medicinal plant used worldwide.

Complete answer:
To answer this question, we must know about the benefits of the Rauwolfia plant. Rauwolfia is an important medicinal plant. It contains several alkaloids like ajmaline, reserpine, serpentine etc.

A) The roots are used as an effective drug to cure high blood pressure or hypertension, insomnia, and other nervous disorders. The reserpine is a phytochemical which is effective in the treatment of mild hypertension. It decreases the heart rate and blood pressure.

B) Kidney failure- Stinging nettle leaf, Dandelion leaf etc are used in the treatment of Kidney diseases. These are high in antioxidants. It helps in reducing oxidative stress.

C) Eye defect-Ginkgo biloba is an efficient medicine to cure eye defects. It has antioxidants which protect the nerve cells and also increases the circulation of blood in the retina.

D) Diabetes- Aloe vera, bitter melon etc are some of the effective medicinal plants used to reduce the blood sugar.

Thus the correct answer is option ‘A’ i.e, Rauwolfia serpentina is used in treating hypertension.

Note: The chemical present in the Indian snakeroot plant is called the reserpine. It is available as a prescription drug in treating schizophrenia, poor circulation, insomnia, several liver ailments, nervousness and convulsions, joint pains, constipation and other mental disorders. The chemicals and drugs extracted from this plant must be taken in correct doe and supervision as it can also lead in toxic effects.