Ashwaganda (Withania somnifera) Information

Source:
A small nondescript evergreen that grows in the more arid parts of northern Africa, western India, the Middle East and the Mediterranean, Ashwaganda grows to a height of 2-3 feet and produces a red raisin like fruit. The entire plant including the leaves, flowers, fruit, and root are used for medicinal purposes.


Traditional uses:
The use of Ashwagandha in Ayurvedic medicine extends back over 3000 to 4000 years to the teachings of an esteemed rishi (sage) Punarvasu Atriya. In ancient India, Ayur means "life or living" and Veda translates as "knowledge", therefore Ayurveda has been defined as the "knowledge of living" or the "science of longevity." Ayurvedic medicine is very spiritual and utilizes diet, herbal supplemation, detoxification systems, meditation, yoga, and massage therapy as a holistic approach to a healthy lifestyle.  In India Ashwaganda is thought to contain an adaptogen or a substance that can enhance the body’s ability to cope with stressful events and resist disease. Ashwaganda has been thought to promote the following:

  • Enhance the reproductive function of both men and women
  • Promote strength
  • Increase endurance and relieve fatigue
  • Heighten the immune system
  • Improve general health and generate a feeling of well-being
  • Improve memory while clearing the mind
  • Slow the aging process

Clinical Studies:
Studies indicate Ashwagandha possesses anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antistress, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, hemopoetic, and rejuvenating properties. It also appears to exert a positive influence on the endocrine, cardiopulmonary, and central nervous systems. The mechanisms of action for these properties are not fully understood. Toxicity studies reveal that Ashwaganda appears to be a safe compound. Preliminary studies have found various constituents of Ashwaganda exhibit a variety of therapeutic effects with little or no associated toxicity. These results are very encouraging and indicate this herb should be studied more extensively to confirm these results and reveal other potential therapeutic effects. Clinical trials using Ashwaganda for a variety of conditions should also be conducted. (Altern Med Rev 2000;5(4) 334-346) John Douillard, an Ayurvedic physician in Boulder, CO, who has a popular radio show and a noted author on Ayurvedic medicine reports in his clinical experience is that this Ashwaganda fortifies our ability to cope with stress, reduces anxiety, and also improves mental acuity, reaction time, and physical performance (Douillard et al. 2001).

In addition, molecules known as withanolides are thought to be responsible for the multiple medicinal applications of ashwagandha. These compounds are steroid like and are very similar in appearance and action to the active constituents of Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng).The withanolides present in Ashwagandha have been studied in multiple animal studies focusing on the effects of inflammation, immune function and anti cancer properties. Intial studies have shown to be promising for all of these positive effects. Wagner H, Nörr H, Winterhoff H. Plant adaptogens. Phytomed 1994;1:63–76.

Modern day uses:
In addition to the whole body effects of Ashwaganda, the herb is also prescribed today for the following conditions:

  • Improved libido in both men and women
  • Respiratory conditions including asthma and bronchitis
  • Chronic fatigue syndrome
  • Flu symptoms
  • Depression
  • Certain cancers and tumors
  • High blood pressure
  • Flu symptomsAnemia
  • Arthritis and other conditions were an inflammation occurs

Precautions and/or adverse effects:
Individuals with preexisting medical conditions should consult with their physician particularly if they are taking prescription or over-the-counter-medications or supplements. Women who are pregnant or nursing and children should also consult with their physician prior to taking any new supplements. There have been no significant side effects reported with the use of Ashwagandha at the time of writing. The herb has some sedative effects and should not be used in combination with sedatives. The herb has also been known to increase the effects of other medications; therefore, individuals should discuss taking Ashwagandha with their physician if they are currently taking prescription medications and/or over the counter products (return to homepage).