Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is an important herb of the Ayurvedic system of medicine. It is also known as Indian ginseng or winter cherry. The root of the herb has a distinctive smell that resembles the sweat of a horse, giving it the name Ashwagandha. In the Ayurvedic textbook ‘Bhavaprakasha’, the properties of Ashwagandha are illustrated in below shloka:
गन्धान्ता वाजिनामादिरश्वगन्धा हयाद्वया। वराहकर्णी वरदा बलदा कुष्ठगन्धिनी ||
अश्वगन्धाऽनिलश्लेष्मश्वित्रशोथक्षयापहा । बल्या रसायनी तिक्ता कपायोष्णाऽतिशुक्रला ॥ -भावप्रकाश
Ashwagandha is known to provide aid in managing problems associated with stress and anxiety due to its Rasayana (Rejuvenating) and Vata balancing properties. These properties may also help in diabetes management. It also has Vajikarana (aphrodisiac) property which helps in improving stamina and treats conditions like erectile dysfunction. Root powder of Ashwagandha can be taken with milk to help manage male infertility and erectile dysfunction. It is used as a nervine tonic for various nerve-related problems. It provides aid in the management of stress and anxiety. It stabilizes the body's response to stressful conditions.
One important precaution with Ashwagandha is that it should be avoided during pregnancy as it might increase uterine contractions[2][33][3].
गन्धान्ता वाजिनामादिरश्वगन्धा हयाद्वया। वराहकर्णी वरदा बलदा कुष्ठगन्धिनी ||
अश्वगन्धाऽनिलश्लेष्मश्वित्रशोथक्षयापहा । बल्या रसायनी तिक्ता कपायोष्णाऽतिशुक्रला ॥ -भावप्रकाश
Ashwagandha is known to provide aid in managing problems associated with stress and anxiety due to its Rasayana (Rejuvenating) and Vata balancing properties. These properties may also help in diabetes management. It also has Vajikarana (aphrodisiac) property which helps in improving stamina and treats conditions like erectile dysfunction. Root powder of Ashwagandha can be taken with milk to help manage male infertility and erectile dysfunction. It is used as a nervine tonic for various nerve-related problems. It provides aid in the management of stress and anxiety. It stabilizes the body's response to stressful conditions.
One important precaution with Ashwagandha is that it should be avoided during pregnancy as it might increase uterine contractions[2][33][3].
What are the synonyms of Ashwagandha?
Withania somnifera, Indian Ginseng, Ajagandha, Vajigandha, Winter Cherry, Varahkarni, Asgandha[1]
What is the source of Ashwagandha?
Plant Based
Benefits of Ashwagandha
Modern Science View
Ashwagandha may improve the individual’s ability to deal with stress.
Stress increases the secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) which in turn increases the cortisol levels (stress hormone) in the body. Ashwagandha powder reduces the level of cortisol and helps to reduce stress and stress-related problems[3].
Stress increases the secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) which in turn increases the cortisol levels (stress hormone) in the body. Ashwagandha powder reduces the level of cortisol and helps to reduce stress and stress-related problems[3].
Ayurvedic View
Stress can usually be attributed to an imbalance of Vata dosha, and often presents with irritability, insomnia, and fear. Taking Ashwagandha powder helps in balancing Vata and thus reduces the symptoms of stress.
Tip:
1. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Ashwagandha root powder and boil it in 2 cups of water.
2. Add a pinch of ginger. Boil till it reduces to half.
3. Cool the mixture and add honey to enhance its taste.
4. Drink this tea to relax your mind.
Tip:
1. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Ashwagandha root powder and boil it in 2 cups of water.
2. Add a pinch of ginger. Boil till it reduces to half.
3. Cool the mixture and add honey to enhance its taste.
4. Drink this tea to relax your mind.
Modern Science View
Ashwagandha may improve the individual’s ability to deal with stress and stress-related problems like anxiety.
Stress increases the secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) which in turn increases the cortisol levels (stress hormone) in the body. Ashwagandha powder reduces the level of cortisol and helps to reduce stress and its associated problems like anxiety[3].
Stress increases the secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) which in turn increases the cortisol levels (stress hormone) in the body. Ashwagandha powder reduces the level of cortisol and helps to reduce stress and its associated problems like anxiety[3].
Ayurvedic View
According to Ayurveda, anxiety is associated with aggravated Vata dosha, so one must concentrate on pacifying excess Vata in the body. Ashwagandha has the property of balancing Vata dosha and is good for managing anxiety.
Modern Science View
Ashwagandha is a potent aphrodisiac and might help in stress-induced male infertility by improving the level of testosterone. Ashwagandha has antioxidant property and fights against the free radicals. This prevents damage and death of sperm cells leading to better sperm count and quality. Thus Ashwagandha helps to lower the risk of stress-induced male infertility along with enhancing male sexual health[7].
Ayurvedic View
Ashwagandha helps to reduce stress-induced male infertility by lowering stress. This is due to its Vata balancing property. It also helps to reduce the chance of male infertility by improving sperm quality and quantity. This is because of its Vrishya (aphrodisiac) property.
Tip:
1. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Ashwagandha root powder along with ghee, sugar and honey daily for a month once or twice a day to improve sperm quality.
2. Or, mix 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Ashwagandha root powder in a glass of warm milk. Drink this at bedtime.
Tip:
1. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Ashwagandha root powder along with ghee, sugar and honey daily for a month once or twice a day to improve sperm quality.
2. Or, mix 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Ashwagandha root powder in a glass of warm milk. Drink this at bedtime.
Modern Science View
Ashwagandha might control blood sugar in diabetic patients by increasing insulin production and improving insulin sensitivity.
Studies state that Ashwagandha makes the cells less resistant to insulin. This improves insulin sensitivity and increases glucose utilization by the cells. Ashwagandha also protects and increases the number of the insulin-producing cells thus increasing insulin secretion. Together, it helps to manage the risk of diabetes[12-14].
Tip:
1. Take 1 glass of milk and 1/2 a glass of water in a pan and bring it to boil.
2. Add 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Ashwagandha root powder and boil for another 5 minutes.
3. Add crushed almonds and walnut (around 2 teaspoons) to the mixture.
4. Drink this mixture to manage blood sugar level.
Studies state that Ashwagandha makes the cells less resistant to insulin. This improves insulin sensitivity and increases glucose utilization by the cells. Ashwagandha also protects and increases the number of the insulin-producing cells thus increasing insulin secretion. Together, it helps to manage the risk of diabetes[12-14].
Tip:
1. Take 1 glass of milk and 1/2 a glass of water in a pan and bring it to boil.
2. Add 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Ashwagandha root powder and boil for another 5 minutes.
3. Add crushed almonds and walnut (around 2 teaspoons) to the mixture.
4. Drink this mixture to manage blood sugar level.
Ayurvedic View
According to Ayurveda, there are two types of diabetes therapy. One is Aptarpana (de-nourishment) and Santarpana (replenishment). Aptarpana treatment is useful in obese diabetics with Kapha body type and Santarpana treatment is useful in lean diabetics usually with Vata or Pitta type body. Ashwagandha works on both types of therapies by balancing Vata and Kapha dosha.
Tip:
Take 1 Ashwagandha capsule or tablet twice a day with milk or warm water after 2 hours of meals along with your existing treatment.
Tip:
Take 1 Ashwagandha capsule or tablet twice a day with milk or warm water after 2 hours of meals along with your existing treatment.
Modern Science View
Ashwagandha might reduce pain associated with arthritis.
Studies state that Ashwagandha has analgesic property. It is seen that the roots and leaves of Ashwagandha contain withaferin A which inhibits the production of pain mediators such as prostaglandins. This reduces the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis[17-20].
Studies state that Ashwagandha has analgesic property. It is seen that the roots and leaves of Ashwagandha contain withaferin A which inhibits the production of pain mediators such as prostaglandins. This reduces the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis[17-20].
Ayurvedic View
Ashwagandha is useful to manage pain in arthritis. According to Ayurveda, arthritis occurs due to an aggravation of Vata dosha and is known as Sandhivata. It causes pain, swelling, and joint mobility. Ashwagandha powder has Vata balancing property and gives relief from the symptoms of arthritis-like pain and swelling in the joints.
Tip:
1. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Ashwagandha root powder.
2. Mix it in 1 glass of milk.
3. Drink this thrice a day.
4. Continue for at least 1-2 months for better results.
Tip:
1. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Ashwagandha root powder.
2. Mix it in 1 glass of milk.
3. Drink this thrice a day.
4. Continue for at least 1-2 months for better results.
Modern Science View
Ashwagandha may improve the individual’s ability to deal with stress and stress-related problems like high blood pressure.
Stress increases the secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) which in turn increases the cortisol levels (stress hormone) in the body. Ashwagandha powder reduces the level of cortisol and helps to reduce stress and its associated problems like high blood pressure[3].
Tip:
1. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Ashwagandha root powder in a cup of water.
2. Boil the mixture in a pan for at least 10 minutes.
3. Add a few drops of lemon and 1 teaspoon of honey to enhance the taste.
4. Drink this mixture once a day in the morning.
Stress increases the secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) which in turn increases the cortisol levels (stress hormone) in the body. Ashwagandha powder reduces the level of cortisol and helps to reduce stress and its associated problems like high blood pressure[3].
Tip:
1. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Ashwagandha root powder in a cup of water.
2. Boil the mixture in a pan for at least 10 minutes.
3. Add a few drops of lemon and 1 teaspoon of honey to enhance the taste.
4. Drink this mixture once a day in the morning.
Ayurvedic View
Hypertension is known as Rakta Gata Vata in Ayurveda which means elevated pressure of the blood in the arteries. The aim of Ayurvedic treatment for hypertension is identifying the root cause of the condition and then taking herbs that can eradicate the problem from its roots. Stress or anxiety is also a root cause of hypertension and taking Ashwagandha helps to reduce stress or anxiety and thus control high blood pressure.
Tip:
Start with 1 capsule or tablet of Ashwagandha two hours after meals with milk. Also, monitor your blood pressure regularly while taking Ashwagandha with other antihypertensive drugs.
Tip:
Start with 1 capsule or tablet of Ashwagandha two hours after meals with milk. Also, monitor your blood pressure regularly while taking Ashwagandha with other antihypertensive drugs.
Modern Science View
Ashwagandha might be useful in Parkinson’s disease.
Parkinson’s disease is due to damage of the nerve cells which affects movement, muscle control and balance of the body. Ashwagandha prevents damage of nerve cells due to its antioxidant property. This reduces the risk of Parkinson and its associated problems[21-23].
Parkinson’s disease is due to damage of the nerve cells which affects movement, muscle control and balance of the body. Ashwagandha prevents damage of nerve cells due to its antioxidant property. This reduces the risk of Parkinson and its associated problems[21-23].
Ayurvedic View
Ashwagandha helps to control the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
A disease condition 'Vepathu' described in Ayurveda may be correlated with Parkinson's disease. It is caused by vitiated Vata. Taking Ashwagandha powder balances Vata and also helps to reduce the degeneration of cells which controls the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
A disease condition 'Vepathu' described in Ayurveda may be correlated with Parkinson's disease. It is caused by vitiated Vata. Taking Ashwagandha powder balances Vata and also helps to reduce the degeneration of cells which controls the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
How effective is Ashwagandha?
Insufficient evidence
Anxiety, Arthritis, Diabetes, Hypertension (high blood pressure), Male infertility, Parkinson's disease, Stress
Precautions when using Ashwagandha
Advice from Experts
Important
Modern Science View
Ashwagandha may cause gastrointestinal disturbances, so please consult a doctor before taking Ashwagandha or its supplements if you are suffering from peptic ulcer[26].
Ayurvedic View
Ashwagandha may cause gastrointestinal disturbances. So it is generally advisable to use Ashwagandha with caution in people with Pitta and Ama imbalance.
Breastfeeding
Important
Modern Science View
Due to lack of scientific evidence, Ashwagandha should be avoided if you are breastfeeding[26].
Ayurvedic View
Ayurvedic doctor supervision is needed while taking Ashwagandha during breastfeeding, self medication should be avoided.
Minor Medicine Interaction
Modern Science View
Ashwagandha increases the production of thyroid hormones(T4). So it is generally advisable to monitor your thyroid levels regularly while taking Ashwagandha along with hyperthyroidism drugs[4].
Moderate Medicine Interaction
Important
Modern Science View
1. Ashwagandha may possess immunomodulatory effects. So it is advisable to consult a doctor if you are taking Ashwagandha or its supplements along with immunomodulatory drugs[26].
2. Ashwagandha may cause sedation. So it is advisable to consult a doctor before taking Ashwagandha or its supplements along with sedatives as it may cause excessive sleepiness[4].
2. Ashwagandha may cause sedation. So it is advisable to consult a doctor before taking Ashwagandha or its supplements along with sedatives as it may cause excessive sleepiness[4].
Patients with diabetes
Modern Science View
Ashwagandha may lower blood glucose levels. So it is generally advisable to monitor the sugar levels regularly if you are taking Ashwagandha or its supplements along with other anti-diabetic drugs[26].
Patients with heart disease
Modern Science View
Ashwagandha may lower blood pressure. So it is generally advisable to monitor the blood pressure regularly if you are taking Ashwagandha or its supplements along with anti-hypertensive drugs[26].
Patients with kidney disease
Important
Modern Science View
Ashwagandha has diuretic properties. This might lead to kidney lesions (abnormal growth in the kidney). So please consult a doctor before taking Ashwagandha or its supplements if you already have kidney problems[26].
Pregnancy
Important
Modern Science View
Avoid Ashwagandha during pregnancy as it may increase uterine contractions[26].
Ayurvedic View
Consult an Ayurvedic doctor before taking Ashwagandha during pregnancy, self-medication should be avoided.
Side Effects
Important
Modern Science View
1. Sedation
2. Low blood pressure
3. Diarrhea
4. Nausea
5. Abdominal pain[26]
2. Low blood pressure
3. Diarrhea
4. Nausea
5. Abdominal pain[26]
alcohol
Modern Science View
Ashwagandha may cause sedation. Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Ashwagandha as it may cause excessive sleepiness.[28].
Recommended Dosage of Ashwagandha
- Ashwagandha Tablet - 1 tablet twice a day or as prescribed by the doctor
- Ashwagandha Capsule - 1 capsule twice a day or as prescribed by the doctor.
- Ashwagandha Churna - 1/4-1/2 teaspoon twice a day or as prescribed by the doctor.
How to use Ashwagandha
1. Ashwagandha Tablets
Take 1 Ashwagandha tablet or as prescribed by the doctor
with warm milk or water after taking food twice a day.
2. Ashwagandha Capsules
Take 1 Ashwagandha capsule or as prescribes by the doctor
with warm milk or water after taking food twice a day.
3. Ashwagandha Powder (Churna)
a. With milk or honey
Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon Ashwagandha powder (churna) with milk or honey or as prescribed by the doctor.
b. Ashwagandha Tea
i. Add 1 teaspoon of Ashwagandha powder to 2 cups of water.
ii. Bring it to a boil.
iii. Boil until it reduces to 1/2 of the original quantity.
iv. Add some milk and honey to it.
v. Drink once a day.
vi. You can skip honey in case of high blood sugar level.
c. Ashwagandha Milkshake
i. Roast 4 tablespoons of Ashwagandha powder (churna) in 1 cup of pure ghee.
ii. Add 1-2 teaspoon honey to it.
iii. To consume, add 1 teaspoon of this powder to 1 glass of cold milk.
iv. Blend it well and drink immediately for better taste.
v. You can store this mixture in the refrigerator and use when needed[29].
vi. Skip honey in case of high blood sugar level.
d. Ashwagandha Ladoo
i. Take 2 tablespoons of Ashwagandha powder (churna).
ii. Add 1 tablespoon of jaggery powder to it.
iii. Add a pinch of black salt and pepper to the mixture to enhance the taste.
iv. Knead the mixture evenly and properly.
v. Make round shape laddu with the above mixture in a circular motion between your palms[30].
vi. You can store them in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
e. Ashwagandha Shrikhand
i. Take 250 gms thick curd.
ii. Put the curd in a muslin cloth to drain all the water to get hung curd.
iii. Remove the hung curd from muslin cloth and keep it in the refrigerator.
iv. Divide the hung curd into 4 parts.
v. Add sugar/honey as per your taste and 1 tablespoon Ashwagandha powder to each part.
vi. You can also add some dry fruits and cardamom powder to enhance its taste.
vii. Knead each portion well to make it smooth.
viii. Cool it in the refrigerator for some time.
ix. You can replace sugar or honey with jaggery[31].
Take 1 Ashwagandha tablet or as prescribed by the doctor
with warm milk or water after taking food twice a day.
2. Ashwagandha Capsules
Take 1 Ashwagandha capsule or as prescribes by the doctor
with warm milk or water after taking food twice a day.
3. Ashwagandha Powder (Churna)
a. With milk or honey
Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon Ashwagandha powder (churna) with milk or honey or as prescribed by the doctor.
b. Ashwagandha Tea
i. Add 1 teaspoon of Ashwagandha powder to 2 cups of water.
ii. Bring it to a boil.
iii. Boil until it reduces to 1/2 of the original quantity.
iv. Add some milk and honey to it.
v. Drink once a day.
vi. You can skip honey in case of high blood sugar level.
c. Ashwagandha Milkshake
i. Roast 4 tablespoons of Ashwagandha powder (churna) in 1 cup of pure ghee.
ii. Add 1-2 teaspoon honey to it.
iii. To consume, add 1 teaspoon of this powder to 1 glass of cold milk.
iv. Blend it well and drink immediately for better taste.
v. You can store this mixture in the refrigerator and use when needed[29].
vi. Skip honey in case of high blood sugar level.
d. Ashwagandha Ladoo
i. Take 2 tablespoons of Ashwagandha powder (churna).
ii. Add 1 tablespoon of jaggery powder to it.
iii. Add a pinch of black salt and pepper to the mixture to enhance the taste.
iv. Knead the mixture evenly and properly.
v. Make round shape laddu with the above mixture in a circular motion between your palms[30].
vi. You can store them in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
e. Ashwagandha Shrikhand
i. Take 250 gms thick curd.
ii. Put the curd in a muslin cloth to drain all the water to get hung curd.
iii. Remove the hung curd from muslin cloth and keep it in the refrigerator.
iv. Divide the hung curd into 4 parts.
v. Add sugar/honey as per your taste and 1 tablespoon Ashwagandha powder to each part.
vi. You can also add some dry fruits and cardamom powder to enhance its taste.
vii. Knead each portion well to make it smooth.
viii. Cool it in the refrigerator for some time.
ix. You can replace sugar or honey with jaggery[31].
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Ashwagandha is available in 3 forms:
1. Powder (Churna)
2. Capsules
3. Tablet
1. Powder (Churna)
2. Capsules
3. Tablet
Ayurvedic View
Generally, Ashwagandha extract is available in the form of capsules or tablets in the market. Ashwagandha extract can be taken 600-1200 mg/day. 1-2 capsule or tablet can be taken once a day.
Ayurvedic View
Ashwagandha oil is said to pacify Vata and Kapha doshas and increase Pitta energy. Ashwagandha oil is safe to use locally and for full body massages.
Tip:
1. Take some oil in your palm and apply generously over the affected area.
2. Massage the oil.
3. Cover your body immediately after using this oil.
4. Avoid body contact to cold weather immediately after massaging with Ashwagandha oil.
Tip:
1. Take some oil in your palm and apply generously over the affected area.
2. Massage the oil.
3. Cover your body immediately after using this oil.
4. Avoid body contact to cold weather immediately after massaging with Ashwagandha oil.
Ayurvedic View
You can take Ashwagandha powder with either milk or honey.
i. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon Ashwagandha powder along with 1 cup lukewarm milk or 1 teaspoon honey.
ii. Take it preferably 2 hours after meals.
i. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon Ashwagandha powder along with 1 cup lukewarm milk or 1 teaspoon honey.
ii. Take it preferably 2 hours after meals.
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Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.