Ashwagandha - The Ginseng of Ayurveda

Ashwagandha, known scientifically as Withania somnifera is a plant that is native to Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and India. It is commercially cultivated in some places in India, but grows prolifically in the wild all across the subcontinent. It belongs to the nightshade family which includes the common tomato and potato. This herb has some very interesting properties that are worthy of note, and are only recently being understood. It has been used for centuries in India.

The History of Ashwagandha

This herb has been utilized for centuries in ayurveda practice within India. It has been touted as a panacea of sorts, and is utilized for healing ailments as varied as loss of libido to dullness of the mind. It is used for treating memory loss as well as sexual dysfunction, and as a diuretic. It is thought to have general blood strengthening qualities and powerful aphrodisiac effects. Since much of its use in India mimics that of Chinese ginseng, it is sometimes referred to as Indian ginseng. Like ginseng, typically the root is utilized, but the leaves and small red fruits are also used for coagulating milk in the place of rennet, and as a topical treatment for blemishes and wrinkles. It is so widely used in India historically that is is commercially cultivated even though it grows quite prolifically in the wild.

Common Medicinal Uses and Health Benefits of Ashwagandha

Because of its widespread use in Indian herbal medicine as well as Japanese, this plant has drawn the attention of many researchers and herbal supplement companies for possible uses in modern remedies. Amongst the peculiar effects that have been recently attributed to the herb are its usefulness in treating the pain associated with arthritis. Along with its usefulness in treating arthritis symptoms, it has been found to be an effective anticancer agent. In vitro studies have found that it effectively destroys cancer causing cells by augmenting the apoptotic pathways specifically within cancer cells. This has excited researchers because if it is found to be potent in vivo, it would be a ground breaking discovery. Other than the obvious implications of its anticancer effects, it is also employed as a sexual aid and aphrodisiac, increasing libido and sexual vitality. The medicinal properties associated with this herb are thought to be a side effect of the many alkaloids and steroidal lactones that are present in significant amounts within it. The chemicals coordinate a number of interesting systemic effects within the body, and many are thought to promote immunity.

In Conclusion

Ashwagandha has been hailed to be a powerful adaptogen, or substance that helps the body attain a physiological balance. A balanced body is a healthy one, and there are bound to be exciting new discoveries once modern day technology is utilized to discover the hidden attributes of this mysterious plant. The potential for Indian ginseng could possibly include a cure for cancer, and this alone is reason for excitement amongst herbal practitioners everywhere.

Return to Natural Herbal Remedies Advice Home Page from this ashwagandha page