Ashwagandha- the Indian ginseng
Ashwagandha -
also
known as Indian Winter Cherry has the Botanical name
Withania Somnifera
-It is a shrub belonging to Solanace family.
It is grown in the western India, Gujarat, MP, Punjab
and in Himalayas.
Ashwagandha gets its name because its roots have the odor of horse. (Ashwa =
horse , gandha = odor). It is called by another name Varaha karni because its
leaves resemble pig’s ear.
Ashwagandha has light (laghu) and sticky (snigdha) properties, bitter and sweet
taste. On digestion the sweet taste dominates. The main part used is root of
this herb.
Medicinal properties of Ashwagandha
The
various medicinal properties of ashwagandha is attributed to compounds known as
withanolides which are present in it.
Ashwagandha is used as an adaptogen (as it enhances endurance), rejuvenating
tonic and sedative. Hence many herbalists refer this herb as Indian ginseng.
Effects on mind:
As it balances vata and kapha, it improves memory, counteracts the effects of
stress and calms mind. It has an ability to relieve stress. It acts as sedative.
Stressed patients with insomnia are benefited by this herb.
This
herb can be used in Alzheimer’s disease, memory loss and insomnia.
Effects on general health :
It acts as balya and
strengthens the body. Generally, ashwagandha stimulates the immune system and
strengthens it. It increases body energy level.
Convalescent patients’ gain more energy and can spring back to normal routine
quicker when this herb’s preparations are used after illness.
The
immediate relapse of disease is prevented on use of Ashwagandha. This supports
HIV patients by strengthening their immune system.
Anti-inflammatory properties:
It has anti-inflammatory properties and has been successfully used in adjuvant
therapy for arthritis. It reduces inflammation of joints and eases movements.
Effects on digestive system:
Ashwagandha increases
appetite . It normalizes digestion and bowel movements.
Effects on reproductive system:
This magic herb increases
shukra dhatu, sperm count and sperm motility. It increases libido and known as
best Vajikara dravya (aphrodisiac)
It is
also used as uterine tonic and to enhance female libido.
Ashwagandha retards ageing process when used as rasayana (rejuvenating
preparation).
It
reduces hypertension and also acts as diuretic.
Effects
on pregnant woman: Ashwagandha is very effective in conditions like habitual
abortion, threatened abortion. It stabilizes pregnancy and balances harmones
which stabilize pregnancy.
Usefull preparations of Ashwagandha:
- A
paste of ashwagandha leaves when applied on a local inflammation acts as anti
inflammatory.
- The
herbal massage oil which includes this herb is useful in many conditions like
paralysis, epilepsy, sleeplessness etc.
- The
preparation of Ashwagandha which is processed with ghee, sugar and honey is a
very good aphrodisiac and increases semen quantity, sperm count and motility.
It is effectively used in Erectile dysfunction, low libido and premature
ejaculation.
- Ashwagandha
roots when used regularly helps to improve the conditions like emaciation of
children, senile debility, rheumatism, in all cases of general debility,
nervous exhaustion, brain-fag, low of memory, loss of muscular energy and
spermatorrhoea. It increases body energy and vigor . It helps to rebuild the
body system which is worn out due to chronic diseases like syphilis,
rheumatism etc. It also replenishes the lowered energy of body due to
over-work, mental exertion thus preventing early ageing.
- Ashwagandha
when used regularly , is very useful in emaciated children. It increases body
weight and body energy.
- Regular use
of ashwagandha helps to reduce blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
- Fine powder
of ashwagandha well mixed with oil is very use full in many skin conditions.
- Ashwagandha
also acts as galactogogue and thickens the milk when given to nursing mothers.
