Withania somnifera (aka Ashwagandha)
While the use of herbs, medicinally or otherwise, is definitely not new, herbal medicine has been a growing trend over the last few years and it’s one of my passions. I find that so many people want to learn how to use herbs in their daily lives but do not know where to start. So, I decided to build my own monograph (essentially an encyclopedia) of herbs that will feature just about everything you need to know about the herb.
Together, we will learn about a new herb, its historical and modern uses, along with who it’s good for, who should avoid it, and how you can incorporate it into your wellness routines. To kick it off, we will be learning all about Withania somnifera also known as Ashwagandha!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is strictly for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult your physician and/or healthcare provider before beginning to use herbal products.
Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha)
Withania somnifera aka Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is one of the most popular herbs in the wellness industry. Touted for its stress-busting effects, ashwagandha has been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic medicine and has been researched for its beneficial effects on stress, weight loss, depression, and more!
Latin Name: Withania somnifera
Common Name: Ashwagandha, Winter Cherry
Parts used: roots & leaves
Actions: General tonic, sedative, adaptogen, anti-inflammatory, astringent, anti-anemic, aphrodisiac
Medicinal Uses:
Ashwagandha is known as an adaptogen. Adaptogens are powerful herbs that modify our body’s response to stress and helps us adapt to stressful situations. While adaptogens do not eliminate stress, they do improve the way we respond to stress. Most adaptogens are very nourishing and gentle and should be taken long term for optimal benefit.
Ashwagandha has been used to restore the health of the nervous system. It is best known to ease stress and mental exhaustion (common ailments in our current world of 24/7 husting & no rest). In addition, Ashwagandha supports the body by promoting mental clarity and improving memory and stamina. It also promotes recovery after an illness and is great for chronic diseases involving inflammation.
Who should use this herb:
Anyone suffering from burnout, exhaustion, brain fog, inflammation, and extreme stress. (aka everyone, ha!)
Who should avoid this herb:
Ashwagandha should be avoided in pregnancy and in people with thyroid disease. Use caution when combining with other sedative herbs (California poppy, Passionflower, Kava, Valerian, etc.). Avoid use with benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium), sedatives, and barbituates. Consult your physician.
How to use Ashwagandha:
Ashwagandha can be used as a tea, tincture, capsule, or extract. Tea: boil 1 teaspoon of dried root in 1 cup of water for 10 minutes. Strain and drink 1 cup, three times a day.
Tinctures/Capsules/Extracts:
You can purchase an Ashwagandha tincture at your local natural/health food store or online. My favorite websites to order tinctures from are: Wise Woman Herbals & Mountain Rose Herbs.
References:
National Geographic Guide to Medicinal Herbs--Rebecca Johnson & Steve Foster
Archana R, Namasivayam A. Antistressor effect of Withania somnifera. J Ethnopharmacol 1999;64:91-3.
Ahmad MK, Mahdi AA, Shukla KK, et al. Withania somnifera improves semen quality by regulating reproductive hormone levels and oxidative stress in seminal plasma of infertile males. Fertil Steril 2010;94:989-96.
Agarwal R, Diwanay S, Patki P, Patwardhan B. Studies on immunomodulatory activity of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) extracts in experimental immune inflammation. J Ethnopharmacol 1999;67:27-35.