Ashwagandha, also known as "Indian ginseng" (for its similarities to ginseng in Chinese medicine) is an ancient medicinal herb with multiple--clinically proven--medicinal properties. Six clinical trials proved ashwagandha to relieve anxiety and tension; when paired with dietary advice and a multivitamin supplement, it was found more effective in decreasing anxiety than psychotherapy and a placebo. Additionally, ashwagandha has been proven to reduce chronic stress, increase male fertility, improve muscle strength and mental function, and treat arthritis. Supplementing with ashwagandha may be an easy and effective way to improve your health and quality of life.
History & Folklore
An ancient herb, the use of ashwaghandha has been recorded over 6000 years. With such immense history, ashwagandha has earned a spot as one of the most highly valued and long-standing herbs used in Ayurvedic medicine. Literally, ashwaghandha translates to “smell of the horse”, which begs the question, "does it literally smell of the horse?" Those who have smelled this herb say, "YES". Moreover, its not just the smell of the horse this herb mimics, its also said to impart stamina, strength, and virility of a horse--some of the reasons which make this herb so popular.
Habitat & Cultivation
A stout shrub growing to 5 ft with oval leaves and greenish yellow flowers. Found in the Mediterranean, India, and the Middle East, ashwagandha is propagated from seed or cuttings in spring, harvested for leaves later in spring, and harvested for the fruit & root in autumn.
Uses
Restorative As a tonic, Ashwagandha strengthens and supports physical performance, relieves anxiety, and encourages better sleep quality.
Inflammatory Conditions Useful treatment for chronic inflammatory diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis.
Long-Term Stress Useful in countering the debility accompanied with long-term stress, ashwaghanda reduces overactivity, encouraging rest and relaxation
Anemia high in iron, ashwagandha is a useful treatment for anemia
Ayurvedic tonic provides strengthening and relaxing properties; clears the mind, relaxes and strengthens the nerves, and promotes deep sleeping.
Parts used
Leaves contain the most constituents that inhibit cancer cell growth (withanolides)
Root is powdered or made into decoctions and taken as a strengthening and calming tonic
Berries are chewed in India to help convalescence
Key Actions
Adaptogenic
Tonic
Mild Sedative
Constituents
Alkaloids
Steroidal lactones (withanolides)
Iron
References
- Chevallier, Andrew, FNIMH; Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine - 550 Herbs and Remedies for Common Ailments; 3. Edition 2016; ISBN: 978-0-2412-2944-6; Page 152.
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