Overview
Soma is one of the herbs traditionally used in Ayurveda for blood pressure. Soma/Ephedra (Ephedra gerardiana) is discussed as one proposed identification for the Vedic Soma plant. The text provides detailed pharmacological information. The plant grows at high altitudes (7000-12000 feet) in the Himalayas. The stems contain l-ephedrine and d-l-ephedrine alkaloids (0.26-2.2%). It is a powerful bronchodilator - used extensively for asthma. It also has cardiac stimulant properties and can cause vasoconstriction. The text mentions its use in asthma (Shvasa), cough (Kasa), and as a cardiac stimulant. It can raise blood pressure and is useful in epidemic dropsy and left heart failure. Used in tincture form. Dose: Soma-somarasa dharana - 2-3 drops; extract powder 10-60 grains. Verse refs: pages 445-446.
How Soma Helps with Blood Pressure
According to Ayurvedic pharmacology, Soma has specific properties that make it valuable for addressing blood pressure:
- Potency (Virya): Ushna (hot)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka): Katu (pungent)
- Taste (Rasa): Kashaya (astringent), Katu (pungent)
- Qualities (Guna): Laghu (light), Ruksha (dry)
Ayurvedic Properties
- Taste (Rasa)
- Astringent (Kashaya), Pungent (Katu)
- Quality (Guna)
- Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
- Potency (Virya)
- Hot (Ushna)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka)
- Pungent (Katu)
- Key Constituents
- l-ephedrine, d-l-ephedrine (0.26-2.2% total alkaloid content), l-ephedrine constitutes about 90% of total alkaloids
- Also Known As
- English: Ephedra, Ma-huang
Sanskrit: सोम
Hindi: सोम
Other Herbs for Blood Pressure
See all herbs for blood pressure on the Blood Pressure page.
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.