Ashwagandha: The Greatest Rejuvenator Among The Herbs

Ashwagandha is one of the most powerful herbs. It is used in Ayurveda mostly as a rejuvenative. It promotes longevity by preventing aging and disease.

The word Ashwagandha literally means the smell of a horse. The name comes from unusual smell of its fresh root, which is similar to that of a sweaty horse. It is also known as Withania somnifera, winter cherry and Indian ginseng. Although Ashwagandha is frequently referred to as "Indian ginseng" because of its restorative properties, traditional Chinese ginseng and Ashwagandha are not botanically related.

Photo by Wikimedia Commons

Benefits Of Ashwagandha:

This plant is frequently referenced in various Ayurvedic formulations in the oldest and most authoritative Ayurvedic scripts - Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita. 

It is used in Ayurvedic medicine in many different ways – as a powder, paste, extract, decoction, medicated ghee, medicated wine and medicated oil. 

The part of Ashwagandha that is most commonly used in herbal remedies is the root. External application of root in the form of paste is used to treat wounds and skin diseases. A paste of leaves applied on skin acts as anti inflammatory.

You can use Ashwagandha powder mixed with water, oils or herbal lotions as a face mask to stimulate production of collagen, elastin and hyaluronan.

Ashwagandha powder mixed with warm sesame oil and applied on scalp prevents hair loss and premature gray hair.

Ashwagandha has anti-inflammatory, pain relieving, sedative and mild hypnotic properties and it helps in relieving auto immune disorders. It is also used as an aphrodisiac. The roots and leaves are used as hypnotic in the treatment of alcoholism.

Ashwagandha is equally beneficial for male and female infertility treatments. It increases sperm count and improves overall reproductive health. It helps to strengthen the uterus and ovaries and prepare them for pregnancy. It is used in treating premature ejaculation and improving male and female libido.

This powerful plant strengthen the immune system after illness and promotes healthy levels of cortisol for improved sleep quality. It is used in treating anxiety, depression, fatigue, stress and sleeping disorders because of its nerve calming effect. It increases Ojas (fluid of vitality). Regular use helps to reduce blood sugar and cholesterol levels. It increases the nutritive value of the milk when given to nursing mothers. It is also used to support athletic performance since it improves muscle strength.

For easier digestion take Ashwagandha with ginger.

Pure Ashwagandha powders are preferred to capsule or tablet form.

Since every person respond to treatments in different ways, Ayurvedic treatments are always individually formulated. Before taking Ashwagandha for specific treatment always consult with an educated Ayurvedic physician. 

When suggesting Ashwagandha to their patients, educated Ayurvedic physicians will first make sure they don't have ama build-up since it can aggravate the problem. Ama must be removed first.

Individuals with Pitta dosha dominance should always take Ashwagandha with milk or ghee.

Contraindications Of Ashwagandha:

Ashwagandha intake should be avoided during colds and flu. It may cause gastritis. Do not take this herb with other sedatives or anti depressants. 




Author: Ayurveda Tutorials

Source: 

Wikipedia 



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