Learn about Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is one of the most widespread herbs used in India, where it holds a position of importance similar to ginseng in China.
Ayurvedic practitioners have been using ashwagandha for thousands of years in oral and topical preparations as a general tonic and for a variety of health disorders. The Sanskrit word “ashwagandha” means “the smell of a horse,” symbolizing the strength and vigor of a stallion.
Ashwagandha is traditionally prescribed to strengthen the immune system after an illness. It acts mainly on the reproductive and nervous systems, having a rejuvenative effect on the body. It is also used to treat nervous exhaustion, debility, insomnia, wasting diseases, failure to thrive in children, impotence, infertility and multiple sclerosis.
It is well-known as a natural sedative and general stress reliever. The active compounds in ashwagandha have anti-anxiety, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-arthritic properties that may be effective in reducing stress caused by physical and emotional fatigue; increasing mental alertness, focus and concentration; relieving nervous tension and anxiety; invigorating the body; decreasing inflammation and balancing out and leveling mood swings.
Ashwagandha appears to inhibit cyclooxygenase (COX), the same mechanism of anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving drugs such as ibuprofen and aspirin. Other uses are that the fruit is rich in saponins and can be used as a soap substitute, and also that the leaves are an insect repellent.