Indian ginseng-Ashwaganda
The medicinal herb Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is also called Winter Cherry, Withania and because of its adaptogenic qualities also known as Indian Ginseng. The biochemical active components are known as Withanolides.
Introduction
Ashwagandha is used in India for thousands of years as a rejuvenation cure. Especially the roots of this shrub are in India used for all ages to strengthen vitality and to improve the male and female reproductive system. Meanwhile, clinical tests have proved that Ashwagandha has many other medicinal applications. Regarding its efficacy it shows many similarities with the real ginseng.
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Photo: Ashwagandha shrub that mainly is cultivated in India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. It grows to approximately 1.70 metre. |
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Photo: Ashwagandha pieces of roots that (grinded into powder or as an extract) are used for medicinal purposes. |
Application
Nearly every part of the Ashwagandha plant can be used although the roots are used most. It is mainly used as a food supplement and as a functional ingredient in food and drinks.Ashwagandha is sometimes also used as a medicinal ingredient in cosmetic products.
Medicinal action
Ashwagandha is just like ginseng an adaptogen. Adaptogenes are components that none specifically regulate and strengthen bodily functions. By this the body can cope better with stress and the performance level will improve. The whole body gets more resistant for diseases. The most commonly known applications of Ashwagandha are:- extra energy and stamina;
- immune increase and anti-inflammatory;
- stress and anxiety reduction;
- improvement of memory and concentration;
- supporting heart and vascular system;
- as aphrodisiac and libido stimulator.
Industrial application
The berries of the Ashwagandha shrub can be used in cheese making as a vegetable alternative for the to the milk added enzymes of animal or artificial origin. The juice of these berries has a coagulating effect and can by this separate the milk in coagulant and whey.Dosage
As a traditional dosage of the raw dried root is recommended 3-6 gram roots (15-20 minutes cooked in milk or water). Of extracts and/or extract powders with 1,5% withanolides a daily dosage of 300-500 mg is advised.Contra-indications
- Harmful side effects or contra-indications are not known.
- Proved is that an over dosage can cause a disturbance of the bowel and stomach, diarrhoea and vomiting.
- There is insufficient research of the use of Ashwagandha during pregnancy and lactation.
- It is advised not to use Ashwagandha with sedatives, unless consulted with a doctor.
More information / news
| 2011-06-07 | Understanding Ashwagandha |
| 2010-12-05 | Discover the benefits of Ashwagandha |
| 2010-01-31 | Ashwagandha could be the magic cure for infertile men |
| 2009-08-01 | Rediscovering the Indian Ginseng - ashwagandha |
| 2008-09-08 | Ashwagandha - a health rejuvenator |
| 2008-07-27 | Indian ginseng |
| 2008-04-12 | Benefits and uses of Ashwagandha |
| 2007-07-29 | Ashwagandha Herbal remedy for Stress |
| 2007-05-20 | Ashwagandha to Enhance Immunity and Stamina |
| 2006-01-12 | Ashwagandha is a valuable plant used in Indian medicine |
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