Ashwagandha- The Indian Ginseng

Submitted by Savitha

Ashwagandha - also known as Indian Winter Cherry has the Botanical name Withania Somnifera -It is a shrub belonging to Solanace family. It is grown in the western India, Gujarat, MP, Punjab and in Himalayas.

Ashwagandha gets its name because its roots have the odor of horse. (Ashwa = horse , gandha = odor). It is called by another name Varaha karni because its leaves resemble pig’s ear.

Ashwagandha has light (laghu) and sticky (snigdha) properties, bitter and sweet taste. On digestion the sweet taste dominates. The main part used is root of this herb.
Medicinal properties of Ashwagandha

The various medicinal properties of ashwagandha is attributed to compounds known as withanolides which are present in it.

Ashwagandha is used as an adaptogen (as it enhances endurance), rejuvenating tonic and sedative. Hence many herbalists refer this herb as Indian ginseng.

Effects on mind: As it balances vata and kapha, it improves memory, counteracts the effects of stress and calms mind. It has an ability to relieve stress. It acts as sedative. Stressed patients with insomnia are benefited by this herb.

This herb can be used in Alzheimer’s disease, memory loss and insomnia.

Effects on general health : It acts as balya and strengthens the body. Generally, ashwagandha stimulates the immune system and strengthens it. It increases body energy level.
Convalescent patients’ gain more energy and can spring back to normal routine quicker when this herb’s preparations are used after illness.

The immediate relapse of disease is prevented on use of Ashwagandha. This supports HIV patients by strengthening their immune system.

Anti-inflammatory properties: It has anti-inflammatory properties and has been successfully used in adjuvant therapy for arthritis. It reduces inflammation of joints and eases movements.

Effects on digestive system: Ashwagandha increases appetite . It normalizes digestion and bowel movements.

Effects on reproductive system: This magic herb increases shukra dhatu, sperm count and sperm motility. It increases libido and known as best Vajikara dravya (aphrodisiac)

It is also used as uterine tonic and to enhance female libido.

Ashwagandha retards ageing process when used as rasayana (rejuvenating preparation).

It reduces hypertension and also acts as diuretic.

Effects on pregnant woman: Ashwagandha is very effective in conditions like habitual abortion, threatened abortion. It stabilizes pregnancy and balances harmones which stabilize pregnancy.

Usefull preparations of Ashwagandha:
1. A paste of ashwagandha leaves when applied on a local inflammation acts as anti inflammatory.

2. The herbal massage oil which includes this herb is useful in many conditions like paralysis, epilepsy, sleeplessness etc.

3. The preparation of Ashwagandha which is processed with ghee, sugar and honey is a very good aphrodisiac and increases semen quantity, sperm count and motility. It is effectively used in Erectile dysfunction, low libido and premature ejaculation.

4 Ashwagandha roots when used regularly helps to improve the conditions like emaciation of children, senile debility, rheumatism, in all cases of general debility, nervous exhaustion, brain-fag, low of memory, loss of muscular energy and spermatorrhoea. It increases body energy and vigor . It helps to rebuild the body system which is worn out due to chronic diseases like syphilis, rheumatism etc. It also replenishes the lowered energy of body due to over-work, mental exertion thus preventing early ageing.

5 Ashwagandha when used regularly , is very useful in emaciated children. It increases body weight and body energy.

6 Regular use of ashwagandha helps to reduce blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

7 Fine powder of ashwagandha well mixed with oil is very use full in many skin conditions.

8 Ashwagandha also acts as galactogogue and thickens the milk when given to nursing mothers.
This article is copy righted. The author Dr.Krishna.R.S is an Ayurvedic Physician and web master of

http://www.ayurveda-increaselibido.com

Dr. Krishna.R.S has been an Ayurvedic Practitioner since 19 yrs , after getting a graduation degree in ayurveda (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) in 1986 from University of Mysore, India. He completed his post graduation diploma about allopathic medicine and surgery from University of Bangalore, Karnataka, India.His articles about ayurveda and life sciences have been published in many magzines.

Dr.Krishna. R.S is a star athlete and has represented state and universities when he was in high school, pre university and college.

Dr.Krishna . R.S lives in Mysore , Karnataka, India. He gives consultations in Mysore and also in Bangalore the silicon valley of India.

Ph:91-0821-2451405
Mob: 9448433911
Email : drkrishnars@ayurveda-increaselibido.com

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Article Source: http://www.articletrader.com/health/alternative/ashwagandha--the-indian-ginseng.html

The Benefits of Ginseng

By Dave Johnson

Ginseng has long enjoyed popularity as a healing plant. For centuries now, ginseng served as a stimulant, a healthy remedy for a variety of ailments, an aphrodisiac and pain reliever. Emperors were known to take it in an effort to prolong their lives and gain vigor, virility and energy. Ginseng is taken in a variety of ways: straight up as an extract, as tea and as capsules.

Now, are you wondering what the fuss is all about? Well, let's talk about some of the health benefits ginseng can give you:

Adaptogen. Ginseng has the amazing ability to normalize the body?s functions. It helps the body adapt so that it has what it needs. If your blood pressure is a bit high, it can lower it, while it can increase the blood pressure when yours is a bit lower than normal.

Revitalization and healing. Ginseng has the power of boosting our immune system, so that it is better able to fight disease and hasten recovery time.

Tonic. Tired and lethargic? Do you want to boost your energy level as well as your concentration? Ginseng can help you as it is able to maintain and even enhance the functions of your lungs, liver and nervous system, as well as increase the flow of blood to the brain and body. Drinking ginseng will help relieve you of any stress you feel, and you will feel energized and your mind is more alert and responsive.

Diabetes treatment. With its blood glucose-lowering properties and the ability to balance blood sugar levels, ginseng can help in dealing with Type II diabetes.

Aphrodisiac. Do you find it hard to "perform"? Ginseng has traditionally been known as an aphrodisiac and is believed to help your body produce more sex hormones, which in turn improves your sex drive and your capacity to perform. Women who have problems with menopause can also take ginseng, as this can improve estrogen production.

Other uses. Ginseng is also used for colds, backaches, headaches, protection during chemotherapy and radiation, insomnia and weight loss. Women also find that it can help relieve the pain of childbirth and menstruation.

I recommend warmly these two great resources on ginseng benefits and ginseng supplement

Article Source: Artipot