Herb Highlights: Ashwagandha
Introduction
Ayurvedic medicine has been in practice for over 5,000 years. A popular traditional herb is Ashwagandha, also known as winter cherry or Indian ginseng.1 In fact, Ashwagandha root’s use goes back 3,000 years.2
Semantics
The word “ashwagandha” translates from Sanskrit as “horse smell.” This refers to the smell of the root although the name also alludes to the “strength of a horse.”3 As for the species name, “somnifera” is Latin for “sleep-inducing.”1 Traditionally, ashwagandha is used both to promote sleep as well as increase stamina and endurance.3 Today, studies have looked at ashwagandha and its effects on the immune system, nervous system, and circulatory systems.4 Because of its wide variety of uses, it is considered an adaptogen.5 An adaptogen is an herb that generally builds the body’s resilience to stress.2
GABA be Careful
As always, before including herbs in your diet as a supplement, consult a medical professional, especially if you are taking prescribed medication. Specifically, ashwagandha may have sedative and GABAnergic effects, so if you take any barbiturates, benzodiazepines, or anticonvulsants, please avoid taking it. Also, patients with hormone-sensitive prostate cancer should avoid ashwagandha because it may increase testosterone levels.4
Sources
1 – Withania somnifera – Wikipedia
2 – Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Botanical Sheet | The Medicine Hunter
3 – Ashwagandha – The Medicine Hunter
4 – Ashwagandha | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
5 – Ashwagandha Benefits: What Can It Really Do for You? | Men’s Health
