Scientific name: Withania somnifera
Ashwagandha Medicinal Properties
The use of ashwagandha in Ayurvedic medicine can be traced back to 6,000 years ago. Many believe that it has the power to treat a wide range of conditions, including insomnia, immune system impairment, and joint problems. More recently, these claims have been investigated, and it has been confirmed that the plant possesses properties that can aid in these conditions and more. Its main uses include:
- Reducing stress and anxiety. It is known that ashwagandha can help reduce stress caused by physical or psychological problems.
- Stimulating neurological function. It is possible for the plant to combat neurological disorders in some people, such as memory loss and involuntary movement. It has been administered to patients with early signs of Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s disease.
- Easing arthritis pain. It is widely accepted that ashwagandha works as a painkiller for those suffering from arthritis.
Additionally, ashwagandha is traditionally used for:
- Increasing energy levels. The plant is rich in iron, which makes it useful in providing energy for people with anemia.
- Enhanced libido. The anti-stress benefits of the plant have been shown to increase desire, enhance fertility, and treat sexual disorders in some people.
How does it work?
Its main constituents are found in the roots; these include alkaloids and steroidal lactones. These compounds, such as withanolides – namely withaferin A – and somnine, play an important role in the plant’s healing properties1.
The antioxidant and neuroprotective actions2,3 of ashawagandha’s withanolides are thought to increase the production of free radical-scavenging enzymes. Withanolides have been shown to activate several parts of the immune system, increasing white blood cell count, among other effects. Ashwagandha extract has also been shown to reduce inflammatory proteins.4
Other herbs with anti-inflammatory properties are cherry and cayenne while lemon balm and St. John’s Wort also help improve symptoms of anxiety.
Ashwagandha Side Effects
Ashwaghanda is generally considered safe for short-term use; however, the safety of regular, long-term consumption is unknown due to its extensive pharmacological action. It is important to seek advice from a health practitioner before introducing supplements into one’s regular diet.
Ashwagandha Cautions
In some people, ashwaghanda has been known to cause digestive distress, such as vomiting or diarrhea, especially in large doses. Some cases have been reported of ashwagandha lowering blood sugar levels, so people with diabetes should practice caution, especially if they’re receiving insulin.
Potential interactions include monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs, a category of antidepressants) and thyroid medication.
The herb is also contraindicated for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, as well as for people ailing with chronic autoimmune conditions.
Footnotes:
- Phytochemistry. (2010). Comprehensive metabolic fingerprinting of Withania somnifera leaf and root extracts. Retrieved October 20, 2020, from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0031942210001251
- Journal of ethnopharmacology. (2020). Ashwagandha in brain disorders: A review of recent developments. Retrieved October 20, 2020, from: https://pubag.nal.usda.gov/catalog/6890728
- Cureus. (2019). Adaptogenic and Anxiolytic Effects of Ashwagandha Root Extract in Healthy Adults: A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled Clinical Study. Retrieved October 20, 2020, from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6979308/
- Anti-inflammatory Nutraceuticals and Chronic Diseases. (2016). Natural Withanolides in the Treatment of Chronic Diseases. Retrieved October 20, 2020, from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7121644/