Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera or winter cherry, a plant from the Solanaceae family) is an important herb in ayurvedic medicine and has been used for thousands of years.
Withanolides are the most important medicinal ingredients; ashwagandha contains the largest and most structurally diverse collection of withanolides from all plants. Ashwagandha is also called ‘Indian’ ginseng or ‘royal herb’ because the adaptogenic properties of ashwagandha that resemble those of ginseng. Also, the herb has a prominent place in ayurvedic medicine.
As an adaptogen, ashwagandha increases the non-specific resistance to disease and physical and psychological stress (acute/chronic). Ashwagandha has a broad effect, improves the condition of the body and mind and contributes to a healthy and long life.
The herb counteracts cell aging, is good for thinking, improves memory and includes stress-reducing, anxiety-inhibiting, antidepressant, neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antioxidative, hormone regulating and muscle strengthening effects.
Quality aspects
Withaferin A in ashwagandha has cytotoxic effect; a high intake of this withanolide is therefore undesirable. The root of ashwagandha, which is usually used, has a lower content of withaferin A than the leaves. When using ashwagandha extract, it is advisable to choose an extract with as low as possible content of withaferin A.
Indications
- Improvement in overall condition
- Counteract aging (including cognitive aging)
- Recovery after illness
- Acute and chronic stress
Ashwagandha is also known as the brain herb since it reliefs stress-related complaints and disorders: anxiety, restlessness, depression, learning and memory problems, insomnia and nervous exhaustion. It can improve cognition, mental focus, and memory.
Helps against:
- Chronic fatigue syndrome
- Neurodegenerative disorders: Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, HIV-associated dementia
- Reduced libido
- Reduced fertility (men)
- Muscle weakness, sarcopenia
- Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout
Use advice
The usual dosage of dried ashwagandha root (adults) is about 3 to 6 grams per day (extract 300-600 mg / day). Temporary intake of ashwagandha extract in a dose up to 1200 mg/day is adviced as safe.
Safety
Ashwagandha is safe at the recommended doses. The herb has been used for thousands of years in medicinal traditions such as Ayurveda, Unani, and Siddha. Ashwagandha meets the requirements of an adaptogen: it reduces stress-induced damage, is safe to use, even at higher doses and long-term use, has no negative side effects such as withdrawal symptoms and affects body processes no more than necessary.
People with hyperthyroidism are advised to pay attention when using ashwagandha. Caution should also be exercised in case of hypersensitivity to plants from the nightshade family (Solanaceae).
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