Sanskrit Name : Ashwagandha
English Name : Winter Cherry
Latin Name : Withania somnifera Dunal Pennel A small perennial shrub with white flowers and orange red berry found in
warmer regions of India. Today the herb is completely domesticated and is
cultivated extensively in central and western India. The roots are used in the
preparation of various formulations of Ayurvedic origin.
ApplicationRoots of Winter cherry are highly acclaimed tonic for brain and nervous
system in Ayurveda. Its usage is recommended in preventive health care. It
is considered as "Medhya" which implies to its beneficial effects to the
brain. Detail investigations, both clinical and experimental, observed that
Ashwagandha acts as an antistress and adaptogenic herb. Regular use of
Ashwagandha improves stress tolerance, thereby enhancing the mental
capabilities. It is also known to improve the quality of immune functions.
By virtue of these uses it is often referred to as "Indian Ginseng".
Chemical Composition
Ashwagandha is characterized by the presence of steroidal lactones,
Ashwagandha is characterized by the presence of steroidal lactones,
alkaloids and flavonoids. The steroidal lactones of Ashwagandha are
collevtively known as Withanolides. Ashwagandha roots are reported to
contain more than 30 steroidal lactones and about 20 alkaloids. Many of
the chemical constituents have been investigated for different biological
activities.
Natural Herbs For Health - Ginseng - Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
