Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera) is often used in Ayurvedic Medicine for treating insomnia (sleep problems), depression, stress, anxiety and cerebral disorders.
Ashwagandha is also called Indian ginseng, poison gooseberry, or winter cherry. It is a plant in the Solanaceae or nightshade family. The root and berry are used to make medicine. The root has a strong aroma.
Ashwagandha Has Stress-relieving and Sedative Properties
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is one of the most popular ayurvedic herbal tonics. As one of the most vital herbs in Ayurvedic healing, the herb has been used since ancient times for a wide variety of ailments.
Ashwagandha contains chemicals that might be effective in calming the brain, reducing swelling (inflammation), lowering blood pressure, and altering the immune system. Ashwagandha has remarkable stress-relieving and sedative properties. It is beneficial in fighting insomnia, and is often used for treating sleep problems.
Modern studies have found that the herb shows great effects in decreasing stress, and increasing mental activity. Studies have shown that many of the elements of ashwagandha are antioxidants, which may explain its anti-stress, cognition-facilitating, anti-inflammatory and anti-aging effects.
Ashwagandha has been used in India as a treatment for cerebral disorders in the elderly, including memory loss. Researchers in the University of Leipzig believe that the increase of activity in that particular neurotransmitter could account for the increase in cognitive ability and memory that is attributed to ashwagandha. Other studies also found that it is effective in reducing anxiety and depression, enhancing memory.
Ashwagandha is available in the form of extracts, capsules, teas and tinctures. You can find it in a local health food store.
Two Recipes of Ashwagandha
You may also use the root powder to make a tea or tincture.
Recipe of Ashwagandha tea:
– Dried Ashwagandha root powder 12 grams
– Water 3 cups
– Bring to a boil and simmer for 10 minutes
– Drink 1 cup, twice a day
Recipe of Ashwagandha Tincture:
– Dried Ashwagandha root powder 50 grams
– Vodka or Rum (Alcohol vol. 45-60%) 750 ml
– Soak the powder in the alcohol for two weeks
– Drink 10-20ml, 2-3 times per day
Please note, Don’t use ashwagandha if you have a stomach ulcer. Because it can irritate the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It might cause stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting.
