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:


1. A paste of ashwagandha leaves when applied on a local inflammation acts as anti inflammatory.

2. The herbal massage oil which includes this herb is useful in many conditions like paralysis, epilepsy, sleeplessness etc.

3. 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.

4 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.

5 Ashwagandha when used regularly , is very useful in emaciated children. It increases body weight and body energy.

6 Regular use of ashwagandha helps to reduce blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

7 Fine powder of ashwagandha well mixed with oil is very use full in many skin conditions.

8 Ashwagandha also acts as galactogogue and thickens the milk when given to nursing mothers.


Dr. Krishna.R.S has been an Ayurvedic Practitioner since 19 yrs , after getting a graduation degree in ayurveda (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) in 1986 from University of Mysore, India. He completed his post graduation diploma about allopathic medicine and surgery from University of Bangalore, Karnataka, India.His articles about ayurveda and life sciences have been published in many magzines. Dr.Krishna. R.S is a star athlete and has represented state and universities when he was in high school, pre university and college. Dr.Krishna . R.S lives in Mysore , Karnataka, India. He gives consultations in Mysore and also in Bangalore the silicon valley of India.


More Resources

Massage Therapy
Massage Therapy is a massage session that takes place in a warm, comfortable and quiet area as you lie on a specially-designed table. Sometimes, soft music is played for relaxation.
Healing Crisis A Natural Part of Body Cleansing
Introduction to A Healing CrisisAn increasing number of people today are trying alternative healing methods to cleanse and detoxify their bodies. Simple methods such as switching to a natural food diet, juicing to increase nutrition, or fasting are used to cleanse the body of stored toxins in the hopes of naturally addressing long-standing symptoms such as chronic headaches, adult acne, allergies or arthritis.
10 Simple Ways to Naturally Increase Your Energy
1. Eat protein at every meal: One of the most important ways to keep your blood sugar balanced and energy levels high is to include protein at every meal, breakfast and snacks included.
Alcohol : How Badly Can It Affect Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Sufferers?
The wonders of alcohol. The achilles heel for many people.
The Universal Calibration LatticeŽ - Your Own Personal Connection to the Universal Energy Source
Now is an incredible time to be on Earth. All of us in our divine wisdom agreed to be here doing the journey of human at this most auspicious time in the annals of humankind.
Health and Anti-Aging
Some words about anti-aging and disease preventionThe aging process is for the greater part no mystery anymore. It consists for a great part of daily damages done on the macroscopic, tissue, cellular and genetic levels.
My All Natural Oasis
About 7 years ago, I decided that my budget could stretch, just enough, to fulfill my lifelong dream of owning my own hot tub. Like most perspective spa owners, my biggest concern was whether the hassle of adding and mixing all those toxic chemicals that (I used to believe) are necessary for clean spa water was really worth the pleasure of after-work escapes into my personal "oasis".
The Future of Healing...
Your FUTURE is NOT in a doctor's office or a vial of prescription drugs.Western medicine has done a wonderful job in treating our symptoms and masking the pain of physical imbalances with drugs that cost a small fortune.
Air Purifiers, Are They Worth The Money?
When you suffer from allergies or asthma, you may think it may be a good idea to purchase an air filtration system for your house. But one legitimate question would be: is it worth paying the money? Experts say that it can ease your symptoms, but that is true only if you make other changes in your environment, too.
MSM: Enhance Your Overall Beauty, Your Hair, Nails, And Skin While Reducing Allergic Reactions
Welcome to another exciting issue of "The Home Made Medicine e-zine".This time you are going to be blown away by the article I'm about to put in your hands, if you are really serious about your health, you will jump and run to your health store as soon as you finish reading this piece.
Athlete Foot Remedies
Athlete foot is a common skin infection that is caused by a fungus. The medical term for foot fungus is tinea pedis.
A Constipation Home Remedy - Cayenne
Cayenne is a constipation home remedy that is effective in producing peristalsis in your colon and aids digestion. It can be used regularly at every meal and when needed for constipation.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea Tree Oil is one of the most useful products in nature. It has been used by some Aboriginal People in Australia for many centuries as one of their most useful medicines.
Mud Baths at Your Home Spa- the Pros and Cons
"If you truly love Nature, you will find beauty everywhere"-Vincent Van GoghMud baths are natural products you can use at your home spa.You are a spa goer and enjoy mud baths at health spas, beauty spas, day spas etc.
Relieve Constipation with Aloe Vera
Menstruating or pregnant women should not use Aloe Vera, in any form, to relieve constipationAloe Vera is a wonder herb that has been around for thousands of years. It has been used for both external and internal problems - skin rashes, burns, ulcers, internal bleeding.
Honey! Natural Treatment for Gum Disease
There is quite a bit of talk going on about the antimicrobial properties of the sweetener, Xylitol, which is a product manufactured from cornstalks. The dental hygienist community (discussion groups) is where I am seeing most of this and my understanding is that it is a pretty good product as a sweetener and good for your teeth and gums.
Top 3 Yogis Secrets for Health and Happiness
For hundreds of years, the yogi's have been known to know the secrets for health, peace and happiness. In this short, but informative article, I will briefly describe 3 of these secrets with you.
Immunological Profile In Postpartum Women
Post-delivery, the whole of immune system is restored to normalcy during puerparium. One of the extensively studied immunological markers is the assessment of CA- 125.
Aloe Vera - The Medicine And Beauty Treatment Of Choice For Millenniums
I can remember as a young boy that my grandmother always had an Aloe Vera plant in our home. While playing with the neighbors' kids, I always seem to end the day with plenty of scrapes and minor cuts.
The Basics of Hypnosis
You've seen the stage acts where a hypnotist selects someone out of the audience and when he claps his hands, the unwilling participant struts around the stage clucking like a chicken. You've also seen movies where the hypnotist waves the pocket watch in front of the subject as he utters, "you're getting sleepy ? very sleepy.

More Alternative Information:

Related Articles

How Do You Get Hemorrhoids?
A lot of people don't even know they have hemorrhoids. The rectum is not an area you can readily see.
How Essential Oils Differ From Dried Herbs
Essential Oils are the heartbeat of the plant kingdom,and are perhaps the most exciting life-giving substance we have in the world today. They represent in plants what blood represents in humankind - life! This heartbeat is the energy that was created to deliver the nutrients into every cell of the body.
4000 Year Old Secrets of Green Tea
The Chinese have known about the medicinal benefits of green tea for over 4,000 years. But recent studies are just starting to unlock these ancient secrets of green tea.
Alzheimer's Patients And Verbal Abuse: How To Deal With It
Abuse of any kind is difficult to deal with. Types of verbal abuse can include the following:Does your loved one ignore your feelings?Is he disrespectful?Does he withhold approval, appreciation or affection?Does he walk away without answering you?Does he criticize you, call you names or yell at you?Does he humiliate you in public or in the privacy of your home?Does he tell you that you are too sensitive?Does he destroy furniture or punch holes in the walls?These are some of the signs, but there are many more that may be observed.
Aloe Vera, an Alternative That Will Improve Your Looks and Your Outlook
Do you remember your teen years? Remember that schoolmate that had a less than perfect complexion and always seemed to be the object of cruel comments? Sure, you can relate to what I'm saying! Perhaps it was even you at the receiving end of those comments. Unfortunate as it may be, as a teenager, our outward appearance plays a vital role in issues of self-esteem.
Genital Herpes - Natural and Alternative Treatment Remedies
Modern medical science has not been able to produce a cure for the herpes simplex virus (HSV) and can only offer pharmaceutical solutions that help ease the pain and speed up recovery from a genital herpes outbreak. For those that don't want to turn to medication to manage a lifetime of outbreaks, several holistic and natural remedies may offer a safer alternative.
Cliff Kuhn M.D.s Fun Commandments Unlock Humors Amazingly Powerful Natural Medicine
My Fun Commandments are more relevant today than ever before because I continue to explore and enlarge their scope and impact. They are your wellspring for finding freedom from your pain and illness, navigating swiftly through grief and change, having relationships better than you ever dreamed, ridding yourself of your bad habits once and for all, finding and loving a job of your dreams, and so much more.
Some Tips on Stopping Smoking
Are you looking for tips on stopping smoking? And would you like to know what are some ways to help quit? Now let me remind you that when we come to the actual quitting process, that it is not going to be easy. Please do not consider yourself to be superhuman so be ready to get external help if you need it.
Bad Breath and Gingivitis
Does this sound familiar to you? My dentist and hygienist mentioned that I had irritated gums as they cleaned my teeth. This is a symptom of gingivitis.
Colloidal Silver - Time For a Comeback?
I'm sure you know what it's like to be sick. Stuffy head, running nose, sore throat, coughing, fever, and maybe even vomiting.
The Tribrain and Trauma Therapy
When someone experiences a trauma they go into immediate shock. This is very similar to hypnosis.
Back Pain, Joint Pain, Knee Pain, Arthritis and a Host of Other Pain Ailments You Never Have To Suff
"The smallest pain in our little finger gives us more concern than the destruction of millions of our fellow beings." William Hazlitt [1778-1830.
Treat Cold Sores, Sore Throats, and Warts Naturally
Tired of costly medications, prescriptions and time lost for doctor's appointments, I found myself on a constant search for alternative, affordable health solutions to heal such common painful infections as sore throats, cold sores and warts. Everyone has had at least one of these in their lifetime.
How to Benefit from The Mind-Body Connection
Dr. Bernie Siegel, author of "Love, Medicine and Miracles" was once a distraught surgeon who fretted over his inability to effectively serve his cancer patients.
Citronnelle
Remember the last Dumpling Festival? Did your mother or grandmother hang a pair of small bundle of sweet-scented grass in the morning on top of the door? Did they claim that the grass has the power to dispel evil when you use the water boiled with the leave for bathing? Did you remember the distinct, unmistakable lemon-like fragrance that left you feeling very invigorated? That leaf is none other than Citronnelle.Description of CitronnelleLike lemongrass and rosemary, citronnelle also belongs to the grass family, which is rich in essential oil.
Serotonin Kills Pain - And May Be Available From Your Subconscious
Serotonin is not just for depression--it's potent for pain relief as well. Here's a drug-free way you may be able to increase your supply of this natural painkiller.
Autism Behaviour in Childrens
Autism is a developmental disorder and the specific cause for autism is not known. It is believed that some biochemical imbalance would have caused autism and some believe that it is a psychological disorder.
When Humor Hurts, When Humor Heals
For some, it's a familiar scenario. You've been sitting for hours already in the stuffy boardroom.
Gestalt Therapy And Hypnosis
The Gestalt approach to therapy can be termed "phenomenological-existential" as it is concerned with an awareness of the here-and-now, working away from concepts and towards pure awareness (Clarkson, 1989). By the client becoming aware of their thoughts, feelings, etc the goal is for the individual to achieve insight into the situation under examination.
How to Use the Subconscious to Cope with Body System Triggers of Your Pain
The musculoskeletal, immune and endocrine systems can all be potent triggers of pain signals in your body. Here's a way to use your subconscious mind to try to lessen the impact of those triggers.