Ashwagandha, "Smells like a Horse"

Sanskrit Name: Ashwagandha • English Name: Winter Cherry • Latin Name: Withania Somnifera

Ashwagandha is one of the most important herbs used in traditional Ayurveda. It is considered the "Indian Ginseng" due to its popularity over the last few thousand years, as well as it's tonifying and regenerating effects.

The Kailas Perspective:

Ashwaganda is one of the most important ingredients in my daily herbal tonics.

Ayurvedic Perspective:		Considered the main tonifying herb for men, though it can be used for both men and women to promote strength, stamina, and to support rejuvenation
Nourishes:		Ojas (Life Force Essence) and therefore Stamina, Reproductive System, Nervous System, Musculoskeletal System
Tonifies:		All Tissue, Immune System (Adaptogen), Reproductive System, Musculoskeletal system
Cleanses:		(Astringent) Tissue, Circulatory System, Nervous System
Reduces:		Duration of Colds, Stress, Cholesterol, Insomnia, Fatigue, Debility, Tumors
Dosha Effects:		Decreases Vata, Increases Pitta slightly

Observations:

Ashwagandha reduced growth of breast, central nervous system, colon, and lung cancer cells. Source: Sloan-Kettering website

"A 2002 laboratory study indicates ashwagandha extract stimulates the growth of axons and dendrites. A 2001 study in rodents showed the extract had memory boosting ability. A 2000 study with rodents showed it to have anti-anxiety and anti-depression effects. Ashwagandha root was used historically as an aphrodisiac. This herb is mentioned in the ancient Kama Sutra as an herb to be used for heightening sexual experience, This herb has the ability to restore sexual health and improve overall vitality while promoting a calm state of mind." Source: Ray Sahelian, MD website.

A study in 1991 at the University of Texas indicated extracts of ashwagandha had GABA-like activity. Source: Internet