[This article contains information on medicinal herbalism, read our Medical Disclaimer here.]
Botanical name: Withania somnifera
Common names are Winter cherry, Indian ginseng, Varahakarni
Ashwagandha means "smell of the horse" in Sanskrit, referring to the root's unique smell and the ability of the herb to strengthen and nourish.
Family Solanaceae
Origin
Native to India, Northern Africa, and the Mediterranean
Botany
Ashwagandha is a small scrub, growing 1-2 meters, with yellow flowers that grow into red berries.
Parts used The roots
Historical use
A common herb used in India's traditional Ayurvedic medicine to treat a variety of ailments related to fatigue, burnout and debility.
Energetics
Warming, moistening
Taste- sweet, bitter, pungent
Therapeutic Actions
Adaptogenic: aids in the body's ability to adapt to stress
Nervine: strengthens or tones the nerves and nervous system
Tonic: strengthens and improves bodily performance
Immuno-modulator: brings about homeostasis to the immune system
Anti-tumor: inhibits the growth of tumors
Anti-cancer: destroys and inhibits the growth of cancer cells
Anti-inflammatory: relieves inflammation
Astringent: tightens and binds connective tissue
Anti-anemic: increases the number of red blood cells
Aphrodisiac: stimulates sexual desire
Antioxidant: neutralized free radical oxidation
Anxiolytic: relieves anxiety
Cardioprotective: protects the heart and coronary arteries from injury
Emmenagogue: stimulates and regulates menstruation
Uses
Circulatory system
Lowers blood pressure
Lowers blood sugar
Increases production of red blood cells
Prevents and corrects insulin resistance
This analysis of 24 studies using ashwagandha on those with diabetes showed a significant restoration of the altered levels of blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin, insulin, lipid profile, and oxidative stress markers.
Digestive system
Effective at stopping the formation of stress induced ulcers
Immune system
May support the immune system during chemotherapy and radiation
Protects against degenerative disorders
Anti-cancer properties because of a the compound withaferin, has shown to be protective against chemically-induced cancer and arrest development of tumors.
Nervous system
Used to treat stress, anxiety, and depression
Promotes vitality and vigor
Improves mental clarity, concentration, memory, and stamina
Improves quality of sleep
Treats fatigue, low-energy, tiredness, insomnia, and general debility.
Treats fibromyalgia
Respiratory system
May improve symptoms of asthma when taken daily
Reproductive system
Corrects sexual impotence, low libido, and lack of desire.
Improves quality and quantity of semen
Endocrine system
Lowers cortisol levels
Promotes healthy thyroid, used to help hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism
Promotes adrenal gland function
Musculoskeletal system
I've noticed that when I take ashwagandha before yoga, I am more limber and find the practice comes easier.
Aids in weight-loss, helps maintain a healthy weight by improving the mitochondrial function of adipose and muscle tissue.
Aid in prevention of bone degeneration, rheumatism, and joint pain
Helps arthritis
Skin care
Used topically for wounds and swelling.
Here’s where i source my ashwagandha
Safety:
Generally considered safe.
Consult a physician before using if pregnant.
High doses may cause gastrointestinal pain.
Drug interactions
If taken with tranquilizers may cause drowsiness and reduce coordination.
Application:
Extract (tincture) take 30-40 drops, 2-3 times per day.
Powder, take 1-2g, take in a capsule, stir into tea or a smoothie.
Sincerely,
Emilee Wright
A Mercurial Consciousness