Rauwolfia serpentina contains reserpine (the first modern antihypertensive drug) and alpha-yohimbine (rauwolscine). Alpha-yohimbine is sold as a 'stubborn fat burner' — it's an alpha-2 adrenergic antagonist that releases norepinephrine (blocks the receptor that INHIBITS fat burning in problem areas). HOWEVER: the dose window is extremely narrow. Reserpine depletes catecholamine stores causing SEVERE depression (historical use discontinued for this reason). Our assessment: HIGH RISK. Alpha-yohimbine has no clinical trials as a supplement. Reserpine contamination in crude rauwolfia products is dangerous. --- *Reviewed by the Dose AI Research Team and Clinical Advisory Board* *Last updated: 2026-04-06*
Reviewed by the Scan Dose Research Team and Clinical Advisory Board | Last updated:
Not medical advice. Based on published clinical research and systematic reviews.