Which one of the following plants is useful in treating hypertension?

Rauwolfia, commonly known as Sarpagandha, is a medicinal plant widely used in treating hypertension (high blood pressure). This plant contains an important alkaloid called reserpine, which is extracted from its roots and has been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. Every student must remember that Rauwolfia is also effective in treating mental disorders and is considered one of the most valuable medicinal plants in Indian herbal medicine. Modern pharmaceutical companies extract reserpine from Rauwolfia roots to manufacture antihypertensive drugs that are still prescribed today.

• Active Compound: Reserpine, extracted from roots, acts as the primary alkaloid responsible for lowering blood pressure
• Mechanism: Reserpine works by depleting certain neurotransmitters, which relaxes blood vessels and reduces blood pressure
• Traditional Use: Used in Ayurveda for centuries to treat hypertension, anxiety, and insomnia naturally
• Other Options: Cinchona treats malaria, Ocimum (Tulsi) boosts immunity, and Vinca is used in cancer treatment — none treat hypertension directly
• Scientific Name: Rauwolfia serpentina is the botanical name, native to Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia