Herb Blurb

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

Family: Nightshades/ Solanaceae

Ashwagandha comes to us from the Ayurvedic medicine traditions. Ashwagandha use in Ayurvedic medicine dates back 4000 years.

Traditional uses: aphrodisiac, liver tonic, tumor suppressor, anti-inflammatory, and immune stimulating.

Current Use:

Ashwagandha stimulates the immune system, inhibits inflammation, counteracts effects of stress, and improves memory. Ashwagandha acts as an adaptogen or whole body restorative.

Recent studies show additional properties of Ashwagandha including anti-fungal and anti-microbial, neurological restorative actions, and anti-anxiety and anti-depressive. Ashwagandha protects against damage due to chemotherapy and radiation. Always consult your physician before taking any herb.

Ashwagandha is an excellent hormone balancer for women; especially peri-menopausal and menopausal women. When used in a complete treatment plan, Ashwagandha improves overall sense of well-being, energy and endurance, and mental clarity.

Preparation: Medicinal preparations use the root. Dried herb or powder taken in doses of 3-6grams per day. Tincture, alcohol extract, dose ranges from 10 drops to 1/2 tsp three to four times per day.

Toxicity: No known toxicity.

Side Effects: When taken in large amounts may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, vomiting and diarrhea.

Contraindications: Pregnancy