Tag: Serpentina

Originally used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, the herb *Rauwolfia serpentina* and its alkaloid, reserpine, fell out of favor in modern Western medicine due to its significant and serious side effects, such as severe depression and other neurological issues. Today, there are numerous pharmaceutical and herbal options available that provide more targeted and safer therapeutic effects for those asking, 'What is a substitute for serpentina?'.

While some studies suggest *Rauvolfia serpentina* (serpentina) has hepatoprotective properties, its primary alkaloid, reserpine, has been linked to potential organ damage with long-term use. The crucial question remains: is serpentina bad for the liver when used as a whole herb?