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Ashwagandha

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Ashwagandha Withania somnifera herb illustration

Photo: Piouswatson · Public domain · Source

Ashwagandha

Withania somnifera

Family: Solanaceae  |  Parts Used: Root

Ashwagandha, also known as Indian ginseng, is a powerful adaptogenic herb from Ayurvedic medicine. It supports the nervous system, boosts energy, and promotes overall vitality. Valued for its calming and rejuvenating properties, it contains alkaloids and steroidal lactones (withanolides) that give it broad-spectrum therapeutic activity across the nervous, reproductive, circulatory, endocrine, and immune systems.

Nervous Reproductive Circulatory Endocrine Immune Ayurvedic

Traditional Uses

Properties

Key Constituents

Preparations & Dosage

  • Decoction: 1-2 teaspoons of root in 1 cup boiling water, or 1 ounce dried root per pint of water. Take 1 cup up to three times daily.
  • Tincture: 15-30 drops, up to three times daily.
Fun Fact: Often called "Indian ginseng" due to its rejuvenating properties, though it is not related to true ginseng (Panax). The name "ashwagandha" comes from Sanskrit, meaning "smell of the horse," referring both to the root's scent and the belief that it gives the strength of a stallion.

Cautions

  • Avoid during pregnancy.
  • May affect thyroid hormone levels; use with caution in thyroid disorders.
  • Rare cases of liver injury have been reported; discontinue use if signs of liver problems occur.
  • May interact with immunosuppressants, sedatives, and thyroid medications.
  • Not recommended for individuals with autoimmune conditions without medical guidance.
  • Long-term safety data is limited.

Habitat & Growing Conditions

Native to India, northern Africa, and the Middle East. Grows as a perennial in US zones 7-12, as an annual in zones 4-8. Prefers dry areas in full sun.

Related Articles

Sources & Research

Published Research:

Effects of Ashwagandha on stress and anxiety: a systematic review and meta-analysis | Explore (2024)

Effect of Ashwagandha extract on sleep: a systematic review and meta-analysis | PLoS One (2021)

Effects of Withania somnifera on stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders | Current Neuropharmacology (2021)

Effects of Ashwagandha on physical performance: systematic review and Bayesian meta-analysis | Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology (2021)

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. If you are under the care of a health care provider or taking prescription medication, check with your provider before using any herbal supplement.

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