ASHWAGANDHA, Winter Cherry, Withania somnifera - Solanaceae
Ashwagandha : that which has the smell of a horse, as it gives the vitality and sexual energy of a horse

ASHWAGANDHA is the main Ayurvedic rejuvenative for the male.

Part used : Root

Energetics :
- Rasa (taste) : bitter, astringent, sweet/
- Virya (energy) : heating
- Vipaka (post-digestive effect) :sweet

Doshas : VK- P and Ama + (in excess)

Tissues : muscle, fat, bone, marrow and nerve, reproductive

Systems : reproductive, nervous, respiratory

Actions : tonic, rejuvenative, aphrodisiac, nervine, sedative, astringent

Indications : general debility, sexual debility, nerve exhaustion, convalescence, problems of old age, emaciation of children, loss of memory, loss of muscular energy, spermatorrhea, overwork, tissue deficiency, insomnia, paralysis, multiple sclerosis, weak eyes, rheumatism, skin afflictions, cough, difficult breathing, anemia, fatigue, infertility, glandular swelling

Precautions : High ama, severe congestion

Preparation : decoction, milk decoction, powder, paste, medicated ghee, medicated oil

ASHWAGANDHA holds a place in the Ayurvedic pharmacology similar to ginseng in Chinese medicine, yet it is far less expensive.
It is the best rejuvenative herb, particularly for the muscles, marrow and semen and for Vata constitution. It is used in all conditions of weakness and tissue deficiency in children, the elderly, those debilitated by chronic diseases, those suffering from overwork, lack of sleep or nervous exhaustion.

For such regenerative purposes, it can be taken as a milk decoction to which may be added raw sugar, honey, pippali and basmati rice.
As such, it inhibits aging and catalyzes the anabolic processes of the body.
Sattvic in quality, it is one of the best herbs for the mind upon which it is nurturing and clarifying. It is calming and promotes deep, dreamless sleep.

Ashwagandha is a good food for weak pregnant women; it helps to stabilize the foetus.
It also regenerates the hormonal system, promotes healing of tissues, and can be used externally on wounds, sores, etc.

Relieves Stress, Strain & Fatigue.
Ashwagandha, an adaptogenic herb, is best known as a health tonic and restorative agent. It s helpful in conditions of general debility, exhaustion, stress-induced fatigue and insomnia. Ashwagandha reduces anxiety and stress levels, increases vitality and vigour. It improves both physical and mental performance

Studies have shown ashwagandha to be effective in stimulating the immune system. It also appears to inhibit swelling and aid memory.

Dosage :
Five grams of the powder can be taken twice a day in warm milk or water, sweetened with raw sugar.

1 or 2 tablets daily

Composition :
- Withania somnifera's root in powder : 91%
- Gum Arabic : 9%