Ashwagandha and Health Solutions with Ashwagandha (Withania)
Also known as Winter Cherry and Indian Ginseng, Ashwagandha is
one of the most valuable herbs in the Ayurvedic medical system,
dating back more than 3,000 years. Its Sanskrit name Ashwagandha
literally means 'that which has the smell of a horse', so named
because it is said to give the strength and vitality of a horse.
Ashwagandha is specific for a wide range of conditions including
arthritic inflammation, anxiety, insomnia, respiratory
disorders, nervous disorders, gynecological disorders, male
infertility and impotence.
It is a herb that enhances resistance to stress, increases
stamina and promotes general well-being. Many Western herbalists
refer to this herb as "Ayurvedic ginseng" because of its
reputation for increasing energy, strength, and stamina, and for
its ability to relieve stress. Modern research has found several
types of alkaloids in it of which somniferin and withaniol are
responsible for its multiple actions. The roots of the plant
have been reported to have Alkaloids, Withanolides and many
Glycosides.
According to the Ayurvedic system, Ashwagandha is the best herb
for balancing Vata in the body. Vata governs all movement in the
body, including the movement of nerve impulses throughout the
nervous system. When the root is taken as a milk decoction and
sweetened with honey or raw sugar, it is used to inhibit ageing
and build up strength by catalysing the anabolic processes in
the body.
Ashwagandha is also a proven immune-modulator, antioxidant and
hormone precursor which tends to regulate important
physiological functions. Research has shown that it can protect
the activity of immune cells that are exposed to chemicals that
would otherwise inhibit their normal function.
The antitumor activity of Withania somnifera is known and that
it also enhances the effects of radiation in chemotherapy
Ashwagandha for Sexual Debility: Ashwagandha has an affinity for
the reproductive system in both men and women. It is the main
rejuvenative of masculine energy used in Ayurveda, improving the
quality of reproductive tissues and increasing sexual potency.
It has also been used to increase libido and potency, for it is
said to bestow upon its user the vitality and strength of a
horse. It is often added in herbal supplements that are reputed
to improve sexual desire and function. Ashwagandha has also been
helping women boost their desire for sex. Long considered
India's most potent sex-enhancing plant, the country's women
have used Ashwagandha for years to rev up their sex drives
Ashwagandha For Stress: Ashwagandha is considered as one of the
best remedies for stress. While most adaptogens primarily work
by helping the body to mobilize and maintain the physiological
response to stress, Ashwagandha appears to work first and
foremost by reducing the stress-related excesses of the alarmed
nervous system. It improves the body's ability to maintain
physical effort and helps the body adapt to various types of
stress. It has also been reported to enhance mental function and
memory. It acts to calm the mind and promote sound, restful
sleep.
Ashwagandha as a Anti-Inflammatory Agent: Ashwagandha is an
adaptogen that contains several active phytochemicals known as
glycowithanolides, which research has shown may relax smooth
muscles. As a natural anti-inflammatory agent, ashwagandha may
help to reduce the discomfort associated with arthritis.
Forty-two patients with osteoarthritis were randomly placed in
two groups--one receiving ashwagandha, one a placebo. After
three months, pain and disability were markedly reduced in the
ashwagandha group.
Ashwagandha for Weak Memory: Ashwagandha is a medhya rasayana,
helping to enhance mental ability and performance. It helps
support memory and problem-solving skills and enhances the
coordinated functioning of all aspects of the brain. It corrects
loss of memory arising out of long term stress, illness and
overwork. A 2001 study in rodents showed ashwagandha had memory
boosting ability.
Ashwagandha is also used for High Blood Pressure, as an
Immune-Modulator and an AntiOxidant.
Overall Ashwagandha is a promising herb in many different
fields.
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