What Is Ashwagandha? And What Is It Good For?

(Lat. Withania somnifera)
Other names: Indian ginseng, poison gooseberry, winter cherry

Hard to say, if the Ayurvedic masters thought the name of this herb through enough.
Translation of Ashwagandha is “the smell of a horse”. And even if it doesn’t sound super enticing, it definitely shouldn’t discourage you.

Ashwagandha is undoubtedly the biggest pride of Ayurveda.
Its effects are known for about 2500 years and traditional Indian medicine hugely praises it.
They just can’t get rid of those horses in the description. Except for the aforementioned horse smell, it should also have the strength of a stallion.
So-called Indian ginseng is a typical example of an adaptogenic plant. In shortcut, it means that it provides huge benefits for the body in coping with stressful situations with zero or very weak side effects.

Except for Ayurveda also ancient Africa’s and America’s inhabitants were familiar with this plant.
Its health benefits are mentioned in the original Chinese folk medicine, too.
Ashwagandha is an evergreen plant with yellow-orange fruit. It can be found in broad tropical and subtropical areas.

Benefits of Ashwagandha

• calms the mind, eliminates harmful manifestations of excessive stress and anxiety,
• deepens sleep,
• has aphrodisiac effects,
• balances blood pressure as well as blood sugar levels,
• stimulates the performance of the thyroid gland and kidneys and is very helpful for anemia,
• strengthens the immune system and detoxifies the body,
• positive effect in the fight against various types of cancer,
• recommended for people with rheumatic disorders and arthritis,
• as a prevention of epileptic seizures,
• supports the gain of muscle mass during exercise,
• infuses energy into our body and improves brain function, especially memory centers,
• facilitates the onset of menopause,
• strengthens and nourishes the skin and hair.

Usage and dosage

Every part of Ashwagandha is beneficial.
Fruits and leaves contain plenty of helpful attributes.
But mostly used is the plant’s root. When it dries, they crush into a fine powder.
The powder with plain water is okay, but in combination with milk and honey, you instantly upgrade the drink to whole different level.
If you want to take Ashwagandha as a pro, mix it with ghee or honey.
Even in capsule form it will provide the same benefits. Overall, adding Ashwagandha to your diet is a pretty good choice.
Always follow instruction on the package leaflet and do not exceed the RDA (500 – 1000mg).

Pregnant and breastfeeding women as well as people with autoimmune disease should avoid this herb completely.

Side Effects of Ashwagandha

It may cause adverse effects if taken together with prescription drugs. 
Side effects may include diarrhea, skin burning and discoloration, sedation, liver injury, thyrotoxicosis, increased testosterone levels, and miscarriage.

Caution: Always consult with your healthcare practitioner before using any supplements if you have any health conditions.

Note: This article is for educational and informational use only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always look for the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any question you may have regarding a medical condition.