Botanical name: Withania somnifera
Ashwagandha - Summary
Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic herb that has been an integral part of the Ayurvedic blend for years in India and has been extensively used in the preparation of various medicines. In Ayurveda, it is considered a Medharasayan and primarily helps in promoting learning, reducing stress, and maintaining balance within the body.
About Ashwagandha
- The kind of herbs in Ayurveda, one of the oldest medical systems.
- In Sanskrit, ashva means “horse” and gandha means “smell” and is known to provide the strength of a horse.
- Various parts of the plant like seeds, leaves, and fruits are used for medicinal purposes.
Ashwagandha and Doshas
- It is primarily used for Vata or Pitta doshas in the body, although it can be used for other doshas too.
- The herb has been extensively used to balance excess levels of Vata and Kapha because of its heating, oily, and strengthening properties.
- Ashwagandha’s typical feature of Vata energy focuses on tonic for vitality, memory, and hormonal function.
Ashwagandha - Health Benefits
- Improves immunity
- Relieves adrenal tiredness
- Decreases cortisol levels
- Reduces stress and anxiety
- Improves depression & strengthens digestive organs
- Lowers blood sugar levels
- Combats cancer cells
- Reduces brain cell degeneration
- Improves memory and cognitive function
- Boosts stamina and endurance
- Increases muscle strength
- Improves sexual function and fertility
- Encourages relaxation and deep sleep.
Scientific Studies About Ashwagandha
- Clinical studies performed in different conditions suggest that Ashwagandha root extract, in both males and females, helps in reducing and managing stress and anxiety, improves memory and cognition in healthy adults and patients with bipolar disorder
- Another study performed on humans in 2019 reveals that taking 250 mg or 600 mg of ashwagandha per day led to lower self-reported stress levels, as well as reduced cortisol levels.
Dharmsala Teas with Ashwagandha