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Name: Ashwagandha Biological Name: Withania Somnifera, Physalis flexuosa
Solanaceae family
Other Names: Ashwagandha, winter cherry, Ashgandh, Achuvagandi, Amikkira-gadday, Amkulang-kalang, Amukkira-kilzhangu,
Amukran-kizhangu, Asagandha, Asana, Asgandh, Asundha, Asvagandhi, Fatarfoda, Hirimaddina-gadday, Hirre- gadday, Penneroo-gadda,
Pevette, Sogade-beru History:
This herb is used for 4000 years plus in India. It is a very important herb in ayurveda, the traditional Indian medicine.
It is used for tumors, inflammation (including arthritis), and a wide range of infectious diseases. The shoots and seeds are
also used as food and to thicken milk in India.
Traditional uses of ashwagandha among tribal peoples in Africa include fevers and inflammatory conditions. Ashwagandha
is frequently a constituent of Ayurvedic formulas, including a relatively common one known as shilajit.
Description:
A native of India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, Aswagandha is an important herb used in Ayurveda. The name comes from the peculiar
odor of this herb, smell akin to that of a sweaty horse.
Aswagandha is an erect branched shrub with a greenish or lurid yellow flowers. Aswagandha in India is akin to ginseng
in other parts of the orient. Both are touted for their longevity enhancing and sexually stimulating properties.
Parts Used: Root Active Compounds:
alkaloids and withanoloids
Compounds known as withanolides are believed to account for the multiple medicinal applications of ashwagandha. These
molecules are steroidal and bear a resemblance, both in their action and appearance, to the active constituents of Asian ginseng
(Panax ginseng) known as ginsenosides. (Some people do call ashwagandha as “Indian ginseng”.)
Generally, ashwagandha stimulates the immune system. It has also been shown to inhibit inflammation and improve memory.
Taken together, these actions support the traditional reputation of ashwagandha as a tonic or adaptogen. It counteracts the
effects of stress and generally promote wellness.
Medicinal Applications
Action
alterative, aphrodisiac, astringent, nervine, rejuvenative, sedative, tonic
Seeds possess the property of coagulating milk, but they also contain poisonous properties. Leaves and root are narcotic.
Root is diuretic and deobstruent, tonic, alterative and aphrodisiac.
Known as Indian ginseng, this herb builds marrow and semen, and inhibits aging. It is one of the best herbs for the mind
(clarity, nurturing).
Uses
alcoholism
Alzheimer’s disease
anemia
breathing difficulty
cancer- for general strength during and after chemotherapy
carbuncles
convalescence
cough
emaciation
HIV support, AIDS
immune system problems
insomnia
lumbago
memory loss
mental function, clarity
MS
muscle energy loss
nerve exhaustion, overwork, fatigue
paralysis
rheumatism, rheumatic swellings
sexual debility, infertility, builds semen
skin afflictions
stress
swollen glands
ulcers
women's health - stabilizes fetus, regenerates hormones
Stay tuned for part two!
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