Sadabahar: Uses, Benefits and Side Effects

Introduction

Sadabahar (Catharanthus roseus), widely known for its vibrant flowers, has been a part of traditional Indian medicine for centuries. These ornamental plants are not just beautiful; they also have medicinal properties that can greatly improve our wellness. Primarily, it’s the Sadabahar leaves benefits that have created a remarkable buzz in the medical world. Sadabahar has compounds that benefit diabetes, blood pressure, and digestion. Explore its healing properties further in this article.

Nutritional Value of Sadabahar

Sadabahar is not only valued for its medicinal properties but also for its nutritional content. The Sadabahar leaves and other parts of the plant are rich in various nutrients, making them beneficial for health. The nutritional value of Sadabahar leaves is as follows¹:

1. Protein: Contains 5.2g to 7.05g, contributing to daily protein needs, especially in vegetarian diets.
2. Fat: Up to 19.68g of healthy unsaturated fats that aid in nutrient absorption.
3. Carbohydrates: Sadabahar leaves contain a considerable amount of carbohydrates, approximately 46.02g, providing a good energy source.
4. Fibre: The fibre content, ranging from 1.04 g to 2.4 g, supports digestive health and can help regulate blood sugar levels.
5. Minerals: Rich in calcium (340mg) and iron (10.63-27mg), essential for bone health and oxygen transport in the blood.

Uses of Sadabahar for Overall Health

Sadabahar or periwinkle is a widely recognised plant in traditional practices for its potential health-supporting properties. In folk traditions, different parts of the plant—particularly the leaves and flowers—have been used for managing general wellness. Some people use decoctions or infusions of Sadabahar leaves as part of their routine to support metabolic balance, especially in dietary practices aimed at maintaining normal blood sugar levels. The plant is also appreciated for its ornamental value due to its vibrant flowers and is commonly found in home gardens. Here are few uses of sadabahar:²

Medicinal Uses:

Sadabahar, commonly known as periwinkle, is extensively used in traditional medicine. Various parts of the plant, including leaves and flowers, have been utilised for their therapeutic properties. It is widely recognised in managing ailments such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and various types of cancers due to the presence of alkaloids like vincristine and vinblastine.³

Agricultural Uses:

Sadabahar has been used as an ornamental plant in gardens due to its attractive flowers and resilience. Its ground cover capabilities help prevent soil erosion in agricultural settings.

Cosmetic Uses:

Extracts from Sadabahar are included in cosmetic formulations for their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. They are believed to aid in improving skin health and are sometimes used in formulations aimed at treating acne and other skin conditions.

Folkloric Remedies:

In traditional practices, Sadabahar has been used in various folk remedies, such as for managing high body temperature, dysentery, and as an analgesic for minor pains.

How to Use Sadabahar?

Sadabahar, also known as the evergreen flower or vinca, is a medicinal plant with numerous health benefits. Here are some simple ways to include Sadabahar in your daily routine:

1. Dry the Sadabahar leaves, grind them into a powder and store them in an airtight container. Every morning, take one teaspoon of this powder with water or fresh juice on an empty stomach to help manage diabetes.
2. Chew 3-4 fresh Sadabahar leaves throughout the day. This can help prevent sudden spikes in your blood sugar levels.
3. Boil freshly plucked Sadabahar flowers in water, let them steep, then strain the liquid. Drinking this bitter mixture early in the morning on an empty stomach can aid in managing diabetes.
4. Powder the plant roots and consume them with lukewarm water each morning.
5. Make a tea using the petals of the Sadabahar flower by boiling them in water. You can drink this once daily.

Benefits of Sadabahar for Overall Health

Sadabahar, or Periwinkle, is celebrated for its extensive health benefits. Traditionally used in various cultures, it aids blood sugar regulation, supports cardiovascular health, and offers anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Incorporate Sadabahar into your routine to boost overall wellness with its rich alkaloids and antioxidants. Here are some of Sadabahar’s benefits:⁴

1) Anti-inflammatory Properties

Sadabahar has strong anti-inflammatory effects that help manage chronic inflammation linked to conditions like diabetes. Its alkaloids help reduce inflammation, providing relief from symptoms such as pain, swelling, and discomfort. Regular use of Sadabahar can significantly ease inflammatory conditions. It can also improve overall well-being by controlling these inflammation-related symptoms.

2) Blood Sugar Regulation

Sadabahar contains alkaloids such as vincamine and vinblastine, which have demonstrated hypoglycemic properties. They help lower blood glucose levels and enhance insulin sensitivity. Regular consumption of Sadabahar can aid in managing type 2 diabetes by improving glycemic control.

3) Antioxidant Effects

Sadabahar is rich in antioxidants that neutralise harmful free radicals in the body. These antioxidants help combat oxidative stress, reduce inflammation, and lower the risk of conditions like cardiovascular disease and neuropathy. Additionally, they support cellular health and may improve immune function. By reducing oxidative damage, Sadabahar promotes overall well-being and protects against chronic diseases.

4) Helps Improve Cardiovascular Health

Sadabahar contains omega-3 fatty acids that positively impact lipid profiles, improving cardiovascular health. Its antihypertensive properties help maintain stable blood pressure levels. Additionally, the plant supports healthy circulation and helps regulate  cholesterol levels, further supporting heart health. Incorporating Sadabahar into your routine can enhance overall cardiovascular function and reduce the risk of heart-related issues.

5) Cognitive Function

The antioxidants and flavonoids in Sadabahar enhance memory, concentration, and overall brain function. They may help slow the ageing of brain cells and improve blood circulation in brain tissues. Additionally, Sadabahar may protect against neurodegenerative diseases and support mental clarity. Regular use can help support cognitive abilities, improve memory retention, and promote overall brain health.

Side Effects of Sadabahar

While the leaves of Sadabahar provide numerous benefits, we must bear in mind potential side effects. If you ingest excessive amounts of Sadabahar extracts, it can lead to side effects such as nausea, vomiting, constipation and low blood pressure. Therefore, it’s critical to ensure moderation when utilising the benefits of Sadabahar leaves.

1) Drug Interactions

As with any plant or medicine, Sadabahar might interact with certain medications. It is known to interact with the following categories of drugs:

1. Blood thinners
2. Antidiabetic drugs
3. Medications metabolised by the liver

If you’re on any of these medications, please consult your family doctor before incorporating Sadabahar into your routine.

2) Allergic Reactions

Some people may experience allergic reactions to Sadabahar leaves or its components. Signs include itching, rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms, stop using Sadabahar immediately and seek medical help. In rare cases, severe reactions such as anaphylaxis may occur. Always do a patch test before full use and consult a healthcare provider if you have known allergies.

3) Hypotension

An important point to remember is that excessive consumption of Sadabahar can result in low blood pressure levels. This can be dangerous for individuals with existing hypotension or those already taking antihypertensive medications. In such cases, it’s best to seek advice from a trusted healthcare professional.

4) Gastrointestinal Issues

Overconsumption of Sadabahar may lead to gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. In some cases, it may also cause abdominal cramps or digestive discomfort. Exercise caution when adding Sadabahar to your diet, starting with small amounts to monitor your body’s response. Always consult a healthcare professional for safe usage and determine the appropriate dosage to prevent adverse effects.

Conclusion

Sadabahar offers numerous health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, enhanced cognitive function, and better blood sugar regulation. However, its use should be approached with caution. Consult a healthcare provider before adding Sadabahar to your routine to find the right dosage and form, whether tea, extracts, or supplements. By doing so, you can avoid potential side effects and maximise its health benefits. Always use Sadabahar responsibly and monitor your body’s response to ensure safe and effective use.

FAQs

References

1. Radali, D., & Alka, G. (2018). Periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus) Leaves and Lemongrass (Cympoogon citratus): An Analysis of Their Nutritional Composition, Anti-Nutritional Factors and Antioxidant Content. International Journal of Current Microbiology and Applied Sciences, 7(06), 2130–2135. https://doi.org/10.20546/ijcmas.2018.706.253 ↩︎
2. Hameed, A., Yash Srivastav, & Chauhan, A. S. (2024). Catharanthus Roseus (Vinca Rosea), Taxonomy, Phytochemicals and Pharmacological (Anti-Cancer) properties: A comprehensive overview. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 02(09). https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.13894530 ↩︎
3. Ali, S., Farooqui, N., Ahmad, S., Salman, M., & Mandal, S. (2021). Plant Archives CATHARANTHUS ROSEUS (SADABAHAR): A BRIEF STUDY ON MEDICINAL PLANT HAVING DIFFERENT PHARMACOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES. 21(2), 972–5210. https://doi.org/10.51470/PLANTARCHIVES.2021.v21.no2.085 ↩︎
4. Ali, S., Farooqui, N., Ahmad, S., Salman, M., & Mandal, S. (2021b). Plant Archives CATHARANTHUS ROSEUS (SADABAHAR): A BRIEF STUDY ON MEDICINAL PLANT HAVING DIFFERENT PHARMACOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES. 21(2), 972–5210. https://doi.org/10.51470/PLANTARCHIVES.2021.v21.no2.085 ↩︎