Ashwagandha
Withania somnifera

Brief
Sedative, anti-inflammatory, immunity booster and aphrodisiac. Improves memory and helps one cope with daily stress.
Medicinal Properties
Ashwagandha acts as a sedative, anti-inflammatory, immunity booster, and aphrodisiac. It also acts as an anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory agent. Its naturally occurring steroidal content is much higher than that of hydrocortisone.
American therapists have also found the herb useful in treating depression, alcohol dependency and schizophrenia. Also, when Ashwagandha is taken regularly, memory and learning skills increase dramatically.
It is heat neutral which means it has no warming or cooling properties.
Ashwagandha stimulates the immune system and helps maintain general health and wellness. It is also known to increase the production of bone marrow, semen, and inhibit the aging process. It is a unique herb with anti-stress adaptogenic action that leads to better physical fitness and helps cope with life’s daily stress. It is especially beneficial in stress related disorders such as arthritis, hypertension, diabetes, and premature aging.
Parts Used
Roots, leaves.
Contraindications
If congested, do not take. Do not use if pregnant or breast feeding. Talk to a doctor before using as adjunct treatment for AIDS and cancer.
Lore
Ashwagandha has a long medicinal history stemming back 4000 years. The herb can be traced in ancient ayurvedic texts like Charka Samhita, Ashtaang Samgraha and Susruta Samhita. This particular herb was used to treat various infectious diseases, as well as tremors, inflammation and especially arthritis. It was also used for sexual enhancement and longevity. The word Ashwagandha literally means “the sweat of a horse” indicating that one who takes it would have the strength and sexual vitality of a horse.
Sources Cited
http://www.ayurvedic-medicines.com/herbs/ashwagandha.html
http://www.goherbalremedies.com/blog/herbal-remedies-by-ashwagandha/

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