Sadabahar (Periwinkle): Ayurveda Benefits & Uses
Sadabahar (Periwinkle) in Ayurveda: potential benefits, diabetes remedies, uses, and safety. Learn what works, what doesn’t, and when to seek care.
Written by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula
Reviewed by Dr. J T Hema Pratima MBBS
Last updated on 5th Dec, 2025
Introduction
Curious about Sadabahar benefits? Many people hear that the Periwinkle herb might help with blood sugar and start searching for natural diabetes remedies. This article explains what Sadabahar (Catharanthus roseus, also called Madagascar periwinkle) is, how it’s viewed in Ayurveda and traditional use, what modern science says, and, most importantly, how to stay safe. You’ll also find practical, evidence-based tips for managing diabetes and answers to common questions.
Consult a Top General Physician
What Is Sadabahar (Periwinkle Herb)?
Sadabahar is the common name in India for Catharanthus roseus, an evergreen flowering plant often grown as an ornamental. It is popularly known as the periwinkle herb or Madagascar periwinkle. In traditional systems of health, parts of the plant have been used for various purposes. Modern medicine values this plant because it contains powerful alkaloids from which important chemotherapy drugs (vincristine and vinblastine) are derived.
A crucial safety note: The whole plant contains active compounds that can be toxic if consumed or used incorrectly. Doses used in chemotherapy are carefully extracted and precisely prescribed by oncologists. Home use of periwinkle leaves, teas, or extracts can be dangerous and is not recommended.
Sadabahar Benefits In Ayurveda And Traditional Use
Traditional Perspectives
- In traditional medicine practices across parts of India, Sadabahar has been used for a range of purposes, including
support for blood sugar, minor skin issues, and general wellness. - In Ayurveda, herbs are chosen based on a person’s unique constitution and health goals, and are typically combined with diet and lifestyle guidance.
What Does Modern Science Say?
- Laboratory and animal studies have found that Catharanthus roseus contains biologically active compounds (indole
alkaloids). Some animal studies suggest possible blood-sugar-lowering effects. - However, well-designed human clinical trials are limited. There is not enough high-quality evidence to recommend Sadabahar as a safe or effective treatment for diabetes or other chronic conditions.
- Because the plant is toxic at certain doses and the strength of home preparations can vary, self-medicating with
periwinkle is risky.
Bottom line: While traditional use exists, current scientific evidence in humans is insufficient, and safety concerns are significant. Discuss any herbal interest with a qualified clinician (and a licensed Ayurvedic practitioner if you’re exploring Ayurveda).
Diabetes Remedies And Sadabahar: What You Should Know?
Can Sadabahar Help With Blood Sugar?
- You may see social media posts claiming quick Sadabahar benefits for diabetes. Be cautious. Scientifically, there is not
enough reliable human evidence to show that the periwinkle herb safely lowers blood sugar. - Because periwinkle compounds can affect the body in strong ways, using leaves or home-made extracts can lead to side
effects, low blood pressure, or dangerously low blood sugar, especially if you already take diabetes medicines.
Evidence-Based Diabetes Remedies That Work
If you’re looking for diabetes remedies you can trust, focus on proven steps supported by major health organisations:
Eat A Balanced, Fiber-Rich Diet
- Emphasise vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and seeds.
- Choose healthy proteins and fats (e.g., fish, beans, olive oil).
- Limit refined carbs, sugary drinks, and ultra-processed foods.
Move Your Body Most Days
- Aim for at least 150 minutes per week of moderate aerobic activity (such as brisk walking) plus 2 days of muscle-
strengthening exercises.
Manage Weight If Recommended By Your Clinician
- Even a 5-10% weight loss can improve blood sugar for many people with type 2 diabetes.
Take Medicines As Prescribed And Monitor Regularly
- Follow your medication plan and check your glucose as directed.
- Keep up with A1C, blood pressure, and cholesterol targets.
Work With Your Care Team
- A registered dietitian, diabetes educator, or integrative clinician can personalise your plan and help you avoid unsafe
supplements.
Note: No herb or supplement can cure diabetes. If you’re interested in Ayurveda, speak with a qualified practitioner who will coordinate care with your primary doctor and avoid risky herbs.
How Is Periwinkle Herb Used In Modern Medicine?
- Vincristine and vinblastine, two chemotherapy drugs used to treat cancers such as leukemia and lymphoma, were
originally derived from Catharanthus roseus. - These medicines are made under strict pharmaceutical standards with exact dosing. This does not mean the plant itself
is safe to consume. Using the raw plant is not a substitute for medical care.
Safety, Side Effects, And Interactions
Why Is Caution Essential?
- Toxicity risk: The plant contains potent alkaloids. Ingesting leaves, teas, or concentrated extracts can cause nausea,
vomiting, low blood pressure, neurological symptoms, or more serious effects. - Unpredictable strength: The concentration of active compounds varies by plant part, season, and preparation method.
Home remedies can be much stronger (or weaker) than expected.
Who Should Not Use Periwinkle Herb?
Children and adolescents
- People who are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding
- Anyone with low blood pressure, heart rhythm problems, liver or kidney disease, or a history of neurological issues
- People taking chemotherapy or recovering from it (risk of interactions)
- Anyone on blood-sugar-lowering or blood-pressure-lowering medications (risk of additive effects)
Possible Interactions
- Diabetes medications: May increase the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
- Blood pressure medications: May increase risk of low blood pressure or dizziness.
- Chemotherapy agents: Risk of harmful interactions; do not combine without oncologist guidance.
- Surgery: Herbs that affect blood pressure or the nervous system can complicate anesthesia. Disclose all supplements to
your surgical team.
If You Grow Sadabahar At Home
- Treat it as ornamental only. Do not eat the leaves, flowers, or seeds. Keep away from children and pets.
- Wash your hands after handling the plant. Avoid touching your eyes after handling the sap.
Thinking About Ayurveda And Herbs? Practical Tips
If you see “periwinkle” capsules or tonics online:
- Avoid products that promise “quick cures” or “guaranteed results.”
- Ask for professional guidance. A licensed Ayurvedic practitioner can recommend safer, better-studied options tailored to
you and coordinate with your doctor. - Check product quality. Look for third-party testing and trusted manufacturers; avoid unlabeled or home-made extracts.
- Start with proven foundations first: diet, activity, sleep, stress management, and prescribed medications. Herbs, if used,
should complement, not replace, medical care.
Quick Summary Of Sadabahar Benefits And Risks
- Traditional use: Yes, in some settings; but not a substitute for medical treatment.
- Scientific support in humans: Limited for blood sugar control.
- Safety: Significant concerns with self-use; the periwinkle herb contains potent compounds.
- Best path for diabetes remedies: Use proven lifestyle measures and prescribed medicines. Discuss any herbal interest
with your clinician before trying anything.
Consult a Top General Physician
Consult a Top General Physician
Dr D M Karthik
General Practitioner
4 Years • MBBS, Fellowship in Diabetes Mellitus, Advance certificate in Diabetes Mellitus, Derma Nutrition Certification
Visakhapatnam
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr P Jagadeesha Chandra
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
37 Years • MBBS, MD
Bengaluru
Apollo Hospitals Jayanagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Anand Misra
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
14 Years • MBBS, DNB
Mumbai
Apollo Hospitals CBD Belapur, Mumbai
Dr. Aakash Garg
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
12 Years • MBBS, DNB (Medicine), DrNB (Gastroentrology).
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(150+ Patients)
Consult a Top General Physician
Dr D M Karthik
General Practitioner
4 Years • MBBS, Fellowship in Diabetes Mellitus, Advance certificate in Diabetes Mellitus, Derma Nutrition Certification
Visakhapatnam
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr P Jagadeesha Chandra
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
37 Years • MBBS, MD
Bengaluru
Apollo Hospitals Jayanagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Anand Misra
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
14 Years • MBBS, DNB
Mumbai
Apollo Hospitals CBD Belapur, Mumbai
Dr. Aakash Garg
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
12 Years • MBBS, DNB (Medicine), DrNB (Gastroentrology).
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(150+ Patients)
More articles from General Medical Consultation
.webp)
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Sadabahar good for diabetes?
There isn’t enough high-quality human evidence to recommend Sadabahar for diabetes. Some lab and animal studies suggest blood-sugar effects, but safety concerns and toxicity risks make self-use unwise. Stick with proven diabetes care and speak to your doctor before considering any herb.
2. Can I chew periwinkle leaves for quick blood sugar control?
No. Chewing periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus) leaves or making home teas is risky and can be toxic. The strength of plant compounds is unpredictable, and side effects can be serious. Do not self-medicate.
3. Is the periwinkle herb the same as the chemotherapy drugs?
No. Chemotherapy drugs like vincristine and vinblastine are purified, precisely dosed medications made from compounds originally discovered in the plant. They are not the same as the raw herb, and the raw herb is not safe to consume.
4. Are there safer natural diabetes remedies?
Yes, focus on evidence-based measures: a balanced, high-fiber diet, regular physical activity, weight management if needed, good sleep, stress reduction, and taking medications as prescribed. Always talk to your clinician before adding any supplement.
5. Who should avoid Sadabahar entirely?
Children; people who are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding; anyone with heart, liver, kidney, or neurological conditions; and those on diabetes, blood pressure, or chemotherapy medications should avoid periwinkle herb. When in doubt, do not use it and ask your clinician.