Reserpine is a medication derived from the Rauwolfia serpentina plant, traditionally used in herbal medicine. It primarily functions as an antihypertensive agent, helping to lower blood pressure by blocking certain neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly norepinephrine and serotonin. In addition to its use for hypertension, reserpine has also been employed in treating schizophrenia and other mental health disorders due to its sedative effects. However, its use has declined with the development of newer medications that have fewer side effects.