Withania somnifera (Ashwaganda)

admin | 1:17 pm | March 7, 2008 | Herbs

Withania is extremely important in Ayurvedic (Indian) medicine. It is a small woody shrub, plain in appearance except for its bright red fruit.

It is also commonly referred to as Ashwaganda and less commonly as Winter Cherry, Indian Ginseng, Asgandh, Ashvagandha, Hayahvaya and Vajigandha.

Withania is traditionally used in herbal medicine in wellness tonics and in products aimed to increase the body’s resistance to stress, trauma, anxiety and fatigue. It is thought of as having beneficial properties to the nervous system, to be a sedative, to have anti tumor properties (research has shown effectiveness for its use in high doses), to be anti-inflammatory and to relieve pain. It is also a natural aphrodisiac and is claimed to improve reproductive function, to reduce inflammation, help combat the signs of aging, help asthmatics and treat constipation. Withania is very safe to use and is often found in treatments for babies and pregnant women

Numerous studies have proven Withania’s effectiveness and the huge health benefits that it possesses. Withania helps to promote calm and has been shown to be a great stress reliever and a mild tranquiliser. Withania has been researched for use in pets and showed particular use in the treatment of pets being medicated with