Q.61 Reserpine is obtained from the roots?
1. Rauwolfia serpentina
2. Datura innoxia
3. Withania somnifera
4. Digitalis purpurea
Reserpine Source: Rauwolfia Serpentina Roots Explained
Reserpine, a key alkaloid used in hypertension treatment, comes from specific plant roots. The correct answer to the query is option 1: Rauwolfia serpentina.
Correct Answer
Reserpine is extracted from the roots of Rauwolfia serpentina, an evergreen shrub native to India and Southeast Asia. This plant, also called Indian snakeroot, yields reserpine as its primary bioactive indole alkaloid, used historically for high blood pressure, insomnia, and mental health issues. Studies confirm its roots contain reserpine at concentrations around 254.8 μg/g dry weight, making it the commercial source despite lower yields in some samples.
Option Analysis
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1. Rauwolfia serpentina: Correct. Roots are the main source of reserpine, an antihypertensive alkaloid that depletes catecholamines and serotonin.
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2. Datura innoxia: Incorrect. This plant produces tropane alkaloids like scopolamine and atropine, used for motion sickness and anesthesia, not reserpine.
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3. Withania somnifera: Incorrect. Known as Ashwagandha, it yields withanolides for stress relief and adaptogenic effects, unrelated to reserpine.
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4. Digitalis purpurea: Incorrect. Foxglove provides cardiac glycosides like digoxin for heart conditions, not indole alkaloids like reserpine.
| Option | Plant | Key Compounds | Medicinal Use | Reserpine? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rauwolfia serpentina | Reserpine, ajmaline | Hypertension, psychosis | Yes |
| 2 | Datura innoxia | Scopolamine, atropine | Anticholinergic | No |
| 3 | Withania somnifera | Withanolides | Adaptogen, stress | No |
| 4 | Digitalis purpurea | Digoxin, digitoxin | Cardiac stimulant | No |
Reserpine Uses and Importance
Reserpine lowers blood pressure by inhibiting neurotransmitter uptake in neurons. Though effective, side effects like depression limit modern use; it’s often combined with diuretics. Conservation concerns arise from overharvesting R. serpentina roots, prompting alternatives like R. micrantha. This MCQ tests pharmacognosy knowledge vital for biology and pharmacy exams.
