Ashwaganda, powder

Scientific Name: Withania Somnifera, Physalis Flexuosa - Solanaceae family

AKA: Amukran-Kizhangu, Asagandha, Asana, Asgandh, Asundha, Asvagandhi, Fatarfoda, Hirimaddina-Gadday, Hirre-Gadday, Penneroo-Gadda, Pevette, Sogade-Beru, Winter Cherry, Ashgandh, Achuvagandi, Amikkira-Gadday, Amukulang-Kalang, Amukkira-Kilzhangu, Indian Ginseng

Parts Used: Root

Active Compounds: Alkaloid, Withanaloids - which are Steroidal Lactones, and Iron. These compounds resemble Ginseng, which is why it's commonly known as Indian Ginseng.

Background: Its Hindu name means "Horse smell," because the herb smells like a sweaty horse. This herb has been used for centuries in India as both a medicine and food ingredient. Also used by African tribes to treat inflammatory conditions.

Applications: Immune System/Memory/Anti-Inflammatory

Used primarily for anti-aging because of its ability to prevent the graying of hair, strengthen bone marrow and semen and treat memory loss for the aid of convalescents.

Immune: Effective in treating anemia, HIV and AIDS, other immune system disorders, and MS. It has a high iron content that is useful for treating anemia.

Memory: Used to treat Alzheimer's disease, clear up mental fog, promote clarity, and relieve other mental afflictions, such as anxiety or fatigue.

Anti-Inflammatory: Used to ease rheumatism and swelling.

Ashwaganda is also used to treat alcoholism, asthma, insomnia, paralysis, skin diseases, ulcers, and in the stability of hormones and blood pressure. Currently being studied for its effect in inhibiting the growth of cancer cells.

Description:
Native to India, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan, is is cultivated from seeds and the leaves, fruit, and root are harvested in the spring and fall. It grows as an erect shrub that sprouts yellow flowers and fresh berries.

The ashwaganda root is powdered or dried as are the leaves while the berries are chewed in some parts of the world or dried for later use.

Dosage:
Powder: Take 1/2 teaspoon powder made from leaves in water daily.

Decoction: Use the root to decoct 5 grams with 100 ml water to be taken over the course of two days.

Capsules: Made from powered root, take 1-2 grams a day with water.

Safety:
Unknown if Ashwagandha is safe for pregnant and nursing women. Used safely by children in India. Do not take Ashwagandha if congested.

More Bulk Herbs and Spices Information:

Ashwagandha
Acerola
Alfalfa leaf
Aloe
Angelica Root
Alkanet

For educational purposes only
This Ashwagandha information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.