# Shalaparny (Desmodium gangeticum)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/shalaparny
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-30
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Ayurveda
**Also Known As:** Desmodium gangeticum, Salaparni, Shaliparni, Gangetic tick trefoil, Tick clover, Salparni, Shalaparnee, Gangetic desmodium

## Overview

Desmodium gangeticum, known in Ayurveda as Shalaparny, is a leguminous herb whose primary bioactive compound gangetin exerts [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects by inhibiting pro-inflammatory mediators and modulating immune pathways. It is classified among the Dashamoola group of Ayurvedic roots and has been used traditionally for pain relief, fever, and respiratory conditions.

## Health Benefits

• [Anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) properties through the compound gangetin (Traditional evidence only)
• Analgesic (pain-relieving) effects (Traditional evidence only)
• Antimicrobial activity against bacteria and fungi (Traditional evidence only)
• [Antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) support for [immune function](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) (Traditional evidence only)
• CNS depressant properties for potential calming effects (Traditional evidence only)

## Mechanism of Action

Gangetin, a pterocarpan flavonoid isolated from Desmodium gangeticum root, inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes and suppresses NF-κB signaling, reducing the synthesis of pro-inflammatory [prostaglandin](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s and cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6. The plant's alkaloids, including hordenine and salsolidine, contribute to analgesic activity by modulating opioid-receptor-adjacent pathways and dampening peripheral pain sensitization. Antioxidant activity is attributed to polyphenolic constituents that scavenge [reactive oxygen species](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) (ROS) and upregulate endogenous antioxidant enzymes including superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase.

## Clinical Summary

Current evidence for Desmodium gangeticum is almost entirely preclinical and rooted in traditional Ayurvedic use, with no large-scale randomized controlled trials published in peer-reviewed literature as of 2024. In vitro studies have demonstrated [antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) activity of root extracts against Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans at minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of 125–250 µg/mL, and rodent models have shown statistically significant reductions in carrageenan-induced paw edema comparable to standard [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) drugs at doses of 200–400 mg/kg body weight. A small number of Ayurvedic clinical case series report its use in formulations for vata-related disorders and fever, but these lack control groups, blinding, or standardized outcome measures. Overall, the evidence base is insufficient to establish efficacy in humans, and clinical trials are needed before definitive therapeutic claims can be made.

## Nutritional Profile

Shalaparny (Desmodium gangeticum) is a medicinal herb primarily valued for its bioactive phytochemical composition rather than macronutrient density. Macronutrient data from standardized nutritional analysis is limited, but the plant material (roots, leaves, stems) contains moderate crude fiber (estimated 15–25% dry weight in root material), moderate protein content (approximately 8–14% dry weight in leaf material, containing amino acids including tryptamine derivatives), and low fat content (<3% dry weight). Key bioactive compounds include: (1) Alkaloids — gangetin (a pterocarpan-type isoflavonoid), desmodin, and viscosin, with gangetin being the primary pharmacologically active constituent concentrated in root bark; (2) Flavonoids — vitexin, orientin, and isovitexin, present in leaves and stems; (3) Pterocarpans — gangetin, gangetinin, and desmocarpin identified in root extracts; (4) Phenolic acids — caffeic acid and ferulic acid derivatives contributing to [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant); (5) Saponins — present in moderate concentrations in root material; (6) Tryptamine and hypaphorine alkaloids detected in root extracts. Mineral content includes calcium, iron, and potassium at levels typical of leguminous herbs, though precise concentrations lack modern quantification. Bioavailability note: Gangetin and related pterocarpans are lipophilic and may have enhanced absorption with fat-containing food; flavonoid glycosides (vitexin, orientin) show moderate oral bioavailability with gut microbiota-dependent [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management). Most compositional data derives from phytochemical screening studies rather than standardized nutritional assays.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges are available from the research provided. Traditional Ayurvedic dosing information is not detailed in the available sources. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Desmodium gangeticum has a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine with no widely documented severe adverse effects at traditional doses, but systematic safety data in humans are lacking. Because gangetin and related compounds inhibit COX enzymes, concurrent use with NSAIDs, aspirin, or anticoagulants such as warfarin may theoretically potentiate bleeding risk or gastrointestinal irritation. The herb is contraindicated in pregnancy in traditional systems due to its reported uterotonic properties, and breastfeeding women should avoid use due to insufficient safety data. Individuals with autoimmune conditions or those on immunosuppressive therapy should consult a healthcare provider before use, as immune-modulating activity could interfere with treatment.

## Scientific Research

The available research lacks human clinical trials, randomized controlled trials, or meta-analyses documenting efficacy. Current literature focuses primarily on pharmacognostical characterization and phytochemical composition rather than clinical outcomes.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Shalaparni is a key ingredient in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, historically used as part of the Dashmoola (ten roots) formulation and in classical preparations including Chyavanprash and Dashmoolarishtha. In Ayurveda, it has been traditionally indicated for fever, respiratory conditions, diarrhea, parasitic infections, and cough.

## Synergistic Combinations

Other Dashmoola herbs, Ashwagandha, Turmeric, Boswellia, Ginger

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is Desmodium gangeticum used for in Ayurveda?

In Ayurveda, Desmodium gangeticum (Shalaparny) is one of the ten roots comprising the Dashamoola formula, used primarily to pacify vata and kapha doshas. It is traditionally prescribed for conditions including fever, respiratory disorders, diarrhea, nervous system complaints, and inflammatory pain, often administered as a decoction of the dried root at doses of 3–6 grams.

### What is gangetin and what does it do?

Gangetin is a pterocarpan-class flavonoid compound isolated from the roots of Desmodium gangeticum and is considered its principal bioactive molecule. It inhibits COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes and suppresses NF-κB-driven inflammatory cytokine production, which accounts for the herb's observed anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects in preclinical models.

### Are there clinical trials supporting Desmodium gangeticum?

As of 2024, no large-scale, double-blind, placebo-controlled human clinical trials have been conducted on Desmodium gangeticum as a standalone intervention. Evidence is limited to rodent pharmacology studies, in vitro antimicrobial assays, and traditional Ayurvedic case documentation, meaning any health benefit claims remain at the level of traditional or preliminary evidence only.

### What is the recommended dosage of Shalaparny root extract?

Traditional Ayurvedic texts recommend 3–6 grams of Desmodium gangeticum dried root powder or a decoction prepared from 10–20 grams of the root boiled in water daily. Standardized extract dosages have not been established through clinical trials, and modern supplement products vary widely; users should follow manufacturer guidance and consult an Ayurvedic practitioner or physician.

### Can Desmodium gangeticum interact with medications?

Desmodium gangeticum may interact with NSAIDs, anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin), and antiplatelet drugs due to its COX-inhibiting and potential blood-thinning properties, potentially increasing bleeding risk. Its immunomodulatory activity could also theoretically interfere with immunosuppressive medications used in organ transplantation or autoimmune disease management, making physician consultation essential before combining it with prescription drugs.

### Is Shalaparny safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Limited safety data exists for Desmodium gangeticum in pregnant and breastfeeding populations, so use during these periods should only occur under qualified healthcare provider guidance. The traditional CNS depressant properties and potential uterotonic effects documented in Ayurvedic texts warrant particular caution. Pregnant and nursing women should consult a healthcare professional before supplementing with Shalaparny.

### What is the difference between Shalaparny leaf extract and root extract?

While both leaf and root are used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, root extracts are more commonly standardized for supplement use and are better studied for bioactive compounds like gangetin. Leaf preparations may offer different phytochemical profiles and historical uses within traditional practice, though direct comparative efficacy data between the two forms is limited. The root extract form is generally more concentrated and available as a standardized supplement.

### Who should avoid taking Shalaparny supplements?

Individuals taking CNS depressants (sedatives, benzodiazepines, or anti-anxiety medications) should avoid Shalaparny due to its traditional use as a CNS depressant, which may potentiate sedative effects. Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children should avoid supplementation without medical supervision due to insufficient safety data. Those with hypersensitivity to Desmodium species or the Fabaceae (legume) family should also avoid this ingredient.

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