Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a woody shrub native to India, the Middle East, and parts of Africa. It is a small shrub that can grow up to 35-75 cm in height, with oval-shaped, green leaves. The plant produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that bloom in small clusters, followed by orange-red fruit resembling berries. The roots of Ashwagandha are primarily used for their medicinal properties and are highly regarded in Ayurvedic medicine.
Ashwagandha Scientific Names
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Division: Angiosperms
- Class: Dicotyledons
- Order: Solanales
- Family: Solanaceae
- Genus: Withania
- Species: somnifera
Ashwagandha Common Names
- English: Ashwagandha, Indian Ginseng, Winter Cherry
- Hindi: Ashwagandha
- Sanskrit: Ashvagandha
- Tamil: Amukkara
- Bengali: Ashwagandha
- Telugu: Indian Ginseng
Ashwagandha Uses
- Men’s Health - It boosts testosterone levels, enhances libido, and promotes prostate health, improving overall male vitality.
- Neurocare (Cognitive Health) - Known for enhancing memory, focus, and brain function, Ashwagandha also helps reduce stress and prevents cognitive decline.
- Digestive Health - It supports gastrointestinal health by easing indigestion, bloating, and constipation, while also protecting against ulcers.
- Cardiovascular Health - It helps regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels, supporting heart health and reducing cardiovascular risks.
- Endocrine Health - Ashwagandha supports thyroid function and helps regulate blood sugar levels, beneficial for managing hypothyroidism and diabetes
- Physical Performance - Used to increase muscle strength, endurance, and stamina, it helps improve overall physical performance and recovery
- Anti-aging Benefits - Its antioxidant properties fight oxidative stress, promote cell regeneration, and support youthful skin.
- Blood Health - It purifies the blood and strengthens the immune system. Helpful in improving energy and fighting weakness.
- Fever Support - It supports the body’s natural defense against infections. It helps bring down fever by boosting immunity.
Phytochemical Constituents
Ashwagandha contains a variety of bioactive compounds, which are primarily responsible for its medicinal properties.
- Withanolides: These are steroidal lactones, considered the most significant bioactive constituents. They have been linked to anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and neuroprotective effects.
- Alkaloids: These include withanine, somniferine, and anahygrine, contributing to its anti-stress and sedative effects.
- Saponins: These compounds possess anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
- Flavonoids: Known for their antioxidant effects.
- Phenolic compounds: Ashwagandha contains phenolic acids that contribute to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions.
References
Indian Pharmacopoeia (2018). Withania somnifera. In: Indian Pharmacopoeia 8th Edition. The Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission, Ghaziabad, India.
World Health Organization (WHO) (2004). WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants, Volume 1.
British Pharmacopoeia (BP) (2020). Withania somnifera. In: British Pharmacopoeia 2020.
European Medicines Agency (EMA) (2010). Assessment Report on Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha).
Committee on Herbal Medicinal Products (HMPC) (2015). Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha).
My Account