Ashwagandha - Medicinal Herb Info

Scientific Names

Ashwagandha

Withania somnifera

Common Names

Ashwagandha

Indian ginseng

Winter cherry

Parts Usually Used

The roots are most commonly used, but some preparations also include the leaves.
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Description of Plant(s) and Culture

Ashwagandha is an evergreen shrub that grows in India, the Middle East, and parts of Africa. It has small green flowers that develop into red fruit about the size of a raisin. The roots are the main part used medicinally.
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Where Found

Ashwagandha is native to the dry regions of India, northern Africa, and the Middle East, but is now cultivated in more mild climates including in the United States.
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Ashwagandha

Medicinal Properties

Ashwagandha has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for over 3,000 years. It is considered an adaptogen, meaning it helps the body cope with stress. Potential medicinal properties include:

Reducing stress and anxiety
Improving sleep quality
Boosting testosterone and male fertility
Enhancing memory and cognitive function
Increasing muscle strength and athletic performance
Lowering blood sugar levels
Reducing inflammation

Many of these effects are attributed to ashwagandha’s ability to lower cortisol levels and modulate the stress response. The withanolides and other bioactive compounds in ashwagandha are believed to be responsible for its medicinal properties.
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Biochemical Information

Ashwagandha contains many bioactive compounds, most notably withanolides which are steroidal lactones. Withanolides, including withaferin A, are believed to contribute to ashwagandha’s anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-stress, antioxidant, immunomodulating, and rejuvenating properties.
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Legends, Myths and Stories

The name ashwagandha comes from the Sanskrit words “ashva,” meaning horse, and “gandha,” meaning smell, reflecting the herb’s strong horse-like odor. In Ayurveda, ashwagandha is considered a Rasayana herb, meaning it is believed to promote youth and longevity.
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Uses

Ashwagandha is most commonly used to help reduce stress and anxiety, often in combination with other herbs or therapies. It is also used to boost energy, enhance athletic performance, and improve sleep, cognition, and fertility. Some people use ashwagandha to help manage conditions like depression, diabetes, and high cholesterol as well.
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Formulas or Dosages

Ashwagandha root extract is typically standardized to contain 1.5% withanolides. A common dosage is 600-1,000 mg per day, divided into two doses. However, doses ranging from 250-1,250 mg per day have been used in studies. It may take several months of regular use to notice effects.
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Nutrient Content

While a complete nutrient analysis was not provided, ashwagandha contains many beneficial compounds including withanolides, alkaloids, choline, fatty acids, amino acids, and sugars.
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How Sold

Ashwagandha is available as capsules, powders, tinctures, and tea. The root powder or extract are the most common forms. Some products are standardized to contain a specific percentage of withanolides. Combination formulas with other adaptogenic herbs are also available.
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Warning

Ashwagandha is generally well tolerated but may cause mild side effects like stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting in some people. There are rare reports of liver injury associated with ashwagandha supplements. Ashwagandha may interact with certain medications, including benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and thyroid hormone drugs.

Ashwagandha may increase testosterone levels and should be avoided in people with hormone-sensitive prostate cancer. It should not be used by pregnant women as it may increase the risk of miscarriage. Safety during breastfeeding is unknown. People with autoimmune diseases should use caution as ashwagandha may stimulate the immune system. Talk to your doctor before using ashwagandha if you have any health conditions or take medications.
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