Ashwagandha is an important herb, the healing powers of which had been identified by Ayurvedic practitioners about 4000 years back. It is also known as Indian ginseng and has the scientific name, Withania Somnifera. The plant grows in abundance in Indian Peninsula and it is a main ingredient in the medicines used for treating the ailments such as inflammation, tremors, bone weakness, muscle weakness etc. It has aphrodisiac and rejuvenating qualities. This herb is also used in treating chronic fatigue and impotency. Withaferin, the ingredient of Ashwagandha roots, is known to be a stress-buster; hence the plant is used in curing mental health problems. It is also found very effective in treating paranoia, depression and anxiety symptoms.
Ashwagandha has anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory characteristics and its latter quality is made use of in
spondylitis ayurvedic treatment. It is said that the intake of Ashwagandha leaves help control blood pressure and it has a nourishing effect on the heart, lungs and the nervous system.
Ashwagandha has proved to be effective in stimulating immune system and it increases the production of bone marrow. The herb is a major component of many Ayurvedic drugs which aims at preventing the fatigue related to aging; these drugs also provide nourishment to the body and help increase one’s memory. The abuse of the herb may lead to health disorders, so Ashwagandha can be taken only after consulting with a doctor.
