Withania Somnifera: Best Herbal Medicine for Stress & Anxiety (Ashwagandha)

Table of Content

1. Introduction

2. Vernacular Names

3. Synonyms

4. Classical Categorization

5. Morphology

6. Distribution

7. Types of Ashwagandha

8. Ayurvedic Properties

9. Chemical Constituent

10. Identity, Purity and Strength

11. Health Benefits of Ashwagandha

12. Therapeutic Uses

13. Side Effects

14. Winter Cherry Recipes

1. Introduction

Ashwagandha is a commonly used herb in Indian system of medicine, the root of the plant smells like horse hence, it is called Ashwagandha. It provides the sexual health to a man like a horse. It is stated that the genus Withania is named after Henery Witham, an English paleobotanist of the early 19^th century. The species name somnifera means sleep-bearing/sleep inducer in Latin, which probably refers to its use against stress, anxiety and insomnia.

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2. Vernacular Names

Withania somnifera, commonly known as Ashwagandha, has a few other names as well. Here are some of the alternative names for Withania somnifera:

• English - Indian Ginseng, Winter Cherry
• Assamese - Ashvagandha
• Gujrati - Asagandh
• Tamil - Amukkaramkizangu 
• Telugu - Pennerugadda 
• Bengali - Ashvagandha 
• Gujarati - Asgandh 
• Kannada - Angarberu, Hiremaddina-gida
• Kashmiri - Asgandh
• Malayalam - Amukkuram
• Marathi - Asagandha, Askagandha
• Oriya - Aswagandha
• Punjabi - Asgandh
• Sanskrit - Hayagandha, Vajigandha
• Urdu - Asgand

3. Synonyms

• Aswagandha – It promotes sexual potency like a horse.
• Aswakanda – Roots of this plant emit a horse–like smell.
• Balada – It gives physical strength.
• Gandhapatri – Leaves of this plant also smell like horses.
• Gokarna – Leaves resemble the ear of the cow.
• Hayahwaya – It is famous by the name of horse.
• Kamaroopini – It promotes complexion.
• Kusthgandhini – It is useful in kustha.
• Putrada – It provides male progeny.
• Vatagahni – It pacifies aggravated vata dosha.

4. Classical Categorization

• Charaka Samhita – Balya, Brimhaniya
• Sushrut Samhita – Virechanopaga
• Ashtanga Hridaya – Madhur Varga
• Ashtanga Sangraha - Madhur skandha
• Dhanvantari Nighantu – Guduchyadi varga
• Madanpal Nighantu – Abhayadi varga
• Kaiyadev Nighantu – Oshadi varga
• Raj Nighantu – Shatahwadi varga
• Bhavaprakasha Nighantu – Guduchyadi varga

5. Morphology

Leaves

The leaves of the tree are ovate, sub-opposite, and alternate to each other, they are dark green and 10cm long. Leaves possessed a narcotic action, it is used to heal wounds and skin infections. It is also used for the treatment of tumors and tubercular glands.

Flower

Flowers of Withania somnifera are yellowish-green and found in clusters but only one can be flowering at any time and are easily overlooked due to the color being the same as the leaves.

Fruit & Seed

The fruit of Withania somnifera is red and yellow berry shape in 6 mm in diameter, it contains a considerable amount of saponins. The fruits are mainly dry and filled with seeds that are not edible. Seeds are mainly used for sowing and germination purposes.

 Ashwagandha Roots

Ashwagandha roots are mainly used in Ayurveda, it is considered a phototherapeutic agent to cure various ailments. The primarily compound of the roots is withanolides, which are known for their extraordinary medicinal properties. The fleshy roots are conical and creamy white in color. Dried roots are cylindrical, gradually tapering down. Its outer surface is brownish white and starchy white inside. It can be easily break into pieces.

6. Distribution

Ashwagandha Herb is a small or middle-sized, erect shrub, growing up to 1.5 meters tall. Its stems and branches are covered with minute star-shaped hairs. It has egg-shaped, hairy leaves, small pale green flowers, and smooth, spherical, red fruit with yellow seeds.

It grows wildly in dry and hot-semiarid climate such as southern Mediterranean region, Canary Island, and northern Africa to northern India. It is found throughout the drier part of India both in waste places and in cultivated form in areas of upper Gangetic plain, West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, Gujrat, Konkan, Deccan, Karnataka and Coimbatore.

7. Types of Ashwagandha

There are two varieties of Ashwagandha, Withania somnifera Dunal and Withania ashwagandha. Among both, ashwagandha is the cultivated variety.

8. Ayurvedic properties 

1. Rasa (Taste): Ashwagandha is believed to have a combination of bitter (Tikta) and astringent (Kashaya) tastes.

2. Virya (Potency): It is heating in nature (Ushna Virya).

3. Vipaka (Post-digestive taste): The post-digestive taste is sweet (Madhura Vipaka).

4. Dosha Effects: Withania somnifera primarily balances Vata and Kapha doshas. Its heating nature may increase Pitta dosha in excess.

9. Chemical Constituent

The Withania somnifera contains an alkaloid somniferine, and its roots contain traces of essential oil. The water-soluble portion of root extract contains indefinite amorphous substances and a quantity of sugar.

The water-soluble extract consists chiefly of a black resin that contains, besides other constituents, a mixture of some fatty acids. It also contains potassium nitrate, tannin, coloring matter, glucose, and some alkaloids.

Alkaloids – ashwagandhine, cuscohygrine, anahygrine, tropine etc.

Steroidal Compounds – ergostane-type, steroidal-lactones, withaferin A, withanolides A-Y, withasommniferin-A, withasomidienone, withasomniferols A-A, withanone etc.

Saponins – contains an additional acyl group and withanolides.

Apart from these contents, the plant also contains chemical constituents like withaniol, acylsteryl glucosides, starch, reducing sugar, a variety number of amino acids including aspartic acid, proline, tyrosine and high amount of iron.

10. Identity, Purity and Strength

• Foreign Matter – Not more than 2%
• Total Ash – Not more than 7%
• Acid-insoluble ash – Not more than 1%
• Alcohol-soluble extractive – Not less than 15% (25%)
• Water-soluble extractive – Nil

11. Health Benefits of Ashwagandha

It is commonly used in emaciation of children (when it is given with milk, it is considered as the best tonic for children), debility from the old age, rheumatism, vitiated conditions of vata, leukoderma, constipation, insomnia, nervous breakdown, goiter etc.

It helps in condition like chronic fatigue, weakness, dehydration, bone weakness, loose teeth, thirst, impotency, premature ageing and emaciation. It is famous to cure impotency and increase sex appeal and fertility, when used solitarily or in combination with other medications.

It is used to improve endurance, strength and general health, and to produce mild sedation. It is also potentially useful in anxiety. Moreover, it is beneficial in arthritis and other musculoskeletal disorders, stress-induced nervous exhaustion and hypertension.

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12. Therapeutic Uses

External Uses

Type of Erysipelas – Warm paste of Ashwagandha is applied externally on the affected part.

Stiffness of Thigh – Ashwagandha root powder mixed with honey, mustard oil and anthill earth, and applied locally as a paste on cramping area.

Skin Disease – Apste of roots and bruised leaves are applied to carbuncles, ulcers and painful swellings. Paste of root is applied locally to reduce the inflammation at the joints.

Internal Uses

Women's Sexual Health

Ashwagandha is also beneficial to women’s sexual health, it helps to improve arousal, lubrication, orgasm, and satisfaction which increases the number of successful sexual encounters and improves their sex lives and sexuality. It strengthens the female reproductive organs and enhances the maturation of the eggs into follicles.

Take 6 grams of Ashwagandha root powder with milk for 5 to 6 successive nights after menstruation.

Caution: The herb possesses properties that can abort a fetus and hence must be avoided by pregnant women.

Male Sexual Health

Two to four grams of the root powder with milk or ghee can be taken to enhance libido, it is beneficial in treating spermatorrhea or involuntary ejaculation. Two to four grams of the powdered root can also be taken daily with sugar, honey, long pepper and ghee in the treatment of these condition.

Skin Health

The leaves of the plant are beneficial in treating serval skin disorders, and fomentation of the leaves is good for boils and swollen hands and feet. A paste of the leaves is locally applied to kill lice infesting the body and on carbuncles and syphilitic sores.

Emaciation

Ghee is processed with one-fourth paste of Ashwagandha, and 10 times milk is given to emaciated children for promotion of body mass.

Rejuvenator

Ashwagandha root powder is mixed with milk, ghee or oil taken with warm water for 15 days helps to increase body mass and acts as a rasayana. Mandukparni, Shankhpushpi and Shatavari should be used to promote intellect, life span, stability and strength.

Rheumatism

Taken in 3grams dose of the Ashwagandha root powder is effective in the treatment of rheumatic affections.

Cold and Cough

Winter cherry is beneficial in treating chest diseases such as cough and cold. The root can be taken either in the form powder in 3-gram doses or in the form of decoction. Berries and seeds are equally effective in treating chest complications.

Asthma

The ash of ashwagandha root taken with honey and ghee is beneficial to treat asthma.

Insomnia

The powder of Ashwagandha root should be taken with ghee cures insomnia and brings sleep soon.

Ashwagandha for Thyroid

Ashwagandha helps to control the thyroid, it helps to increase the secretion of thyroid hormones. That helps to maintain the thyroid level.

Stress and Anxiety

Withania somnifera possesses stress-relieving properties, it helps to reduce the Cortisol hormone which is responsible for stress. It is beneficial to lower the Cortisol level and help to sleep better, if a person takes 300ml of Ashwagandha daily for 8 weeks, helps to lower anxiety and stress levels.

Some other uses of Ashwagandha Herb

• Take 5 grams of Ashwagandha powder, boil it with 1 ½ cup of water, and reduce it to 1 cup. Strain it and add honey and lemon. Drinking the decoction helps to relieve stress.
• Take 3 grams of Withania somnifera root powder with honey or rock sugar and ghee. Mix it well and take this mixture with lukewarm milk. Helps in male infertility.
• Take 3 grams of Withania somnifera root powder with lukewarm milk at bedtime, helps to increase stamina and sexual health.
• Take 2 grams of Ashwagandha powder, 2 tsp of crushed almond and walnut, 1 cup of milk, and a half cup of water. Mix all ingredients in a pan and boil it for 5 minutes, helps to control blood sugar levels.
• Take 5 grams of Ashwagandha powder with lukewarm milk, twice a day after meal. Helps to control blood sugar.
• Take 2 grams of Ashwagandha root powder and mix it with 1 glass of lukewarm milk, drink this thrice a day. Helps to give relief from pain and arthritis.
• Take 5 grams of Ashwagandha root powder and mix it with 1 ½ cups of water. Boil the water and reduce it to 1 cup. Strain it and mix honey and lime. Helps to control high blood pressure.
• Take 2 grams of powder of each, Ashwagandha, lemon peel, and dried ginger. Mix it with 1 cup of water and boil it for 5 minutes. Cool down the mixture and apply it to the face. It helps to cure skin problems.

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13. What are the side effects of Indian Ginseng?

All Ayurveda herbs are plant-based, and they don't have any side effects but they may react with some allopathy or homeopathy medicine. It is better to consult the doctor if you are on any medications or have special health issues.

Some side effects are mentioned below.

• Consult the doctor if you are breastfeeding.
• Do not take without a doctor’s prescription if you are pregnant.
• If you are on diabetes or on hypertension medication. Consult first the doctor before consuming.
• If you are suffering from kidney disease, consult the doctor first before consuming Ashwagandha.
• Do not take Ashwagandha with liquor, it may interact with it and cause drowsiness.

14. Winter Cherry Recipes

Winter Cherry Detox Tea

 Ashwagandha can be incorporated into nourishing recipes that enhance its therapeutic effects. Here are delightful Ayurvedic recipes featuring Ashwagandha / Winter cherry:

Ingredients

• Winter cherry root powder – ½ tsp
• Lemongrass Powder – ½ tsp
• Ginger powder – ½ tsp
• Black Pepper powder – ¼ tsp
• Holy Basil leaf powder – ½ tsp
• Water – 1 ½ cup

Method

• Take a pan and add all ingredients to it. Mix them all and boil them for 5 minutes or reduce them to 1 cup.
• Strain this mixture in a cup and add lemon and honey to it.
• If you want to add milk, then add only jaggery powder(optional) and milk in boiled tea.

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Ashwagandha Golden Milk:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1 teaspoon Ashwagandha powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric powder
• 1/4 teaspoon Cinnamon powder
• 1 teaspoon raw honey (optional)

Instructions:

• In a small saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it simmers.
• Add Ashwagandha powder, Turmeric, and Cinnamon to the milk.
• Whisk the mixture well and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes.
• Remove from heat and strain the mixture into a mug.

Sweeten with honey, if desired. Enjoy this soothing and immune-boosting Ashwagandha Golden Milk before bedtime.

Ashwagandha Energy Balls:

Ingredients

• 1 cup pitted dates
• 1/2 cup almonds (or any other nuts of your choice)
• 2 tablespoons Ashwagandha powder
• 2 tablespoons raw honey
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1/4 cup desiccated coconut (for rolling)

Instructions:

• Place dates, almonds, Ashwagandha powder, honey, and coconut oil in a food processor.
• Process until the mixture forms a sticky dough-like consistency.
• Roll the mixture into small bite-sized balls using your hands.
• Roll the balls in desiccated coconut for an extra burst of flavor.

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. These Ashwagandha Energy Balls make a perfect on-the-go snack, providing a boost of energy and nourishment.

Ashwagandha Chai Latte:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1 teaspoon Ashwagandha powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon powder
• 1/4 teaspoon Cardamom powder
• 1/4 teaspoon Ginger powder
• 1 teaspoon raw honey (optional)

Instructions:

• In a small saucepan, bring water to a boil.
• Add Ashwagandha powder, Cinnamon, Cardamom, and Ginger to the boiling water.
• Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.
• Add milk to the pan and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Strain the chai into a cup and sweeten it with honey if desired. Savor the comforting and nourishing Ashwagandha Chai Latte to start your day or as an afternoon pick-me-up.

Ashwagandha Chocolate Smoothie

Ingredients:

• 1 cup almond milk (or any other milk of your choice)
• 1 ripe banana
• 1 tablespoon Ashwagandha powder
• 1 tablespoon raw cacao powder
• 1 tablespoon almond butter (or any nut butter)
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

• In a blender, combine almond milk, banana, Ashwagandha powder, cacao powder, almond butter, and sweetener (if desired).
• Add a few ice cubes and blend until smooth and creamy.

Pour the smoothie into a glass and enjoy the luscious and energizing Ashwagandha Chocolate Smoothie as a delicious and nutritious snack or breakfast option.

Ashwagandha Coconut Energy Balls

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pitted dates
• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/4 cup almonds
• 1/4 cup cashews
• 2 tablespoons Ashwagandha powder
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt

Instructions:

• Place dates, shredded coconut, almonds, cashews, Ashwagandha powder, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and sea salt in a food processor.
• Process until the mixture comes together and forms a sticky dough.
• Roll the dough into small bite-sized balls using your hands.
• Place the balls in an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.

Enjoy the nourishing and energizing Ashwagandha Coconut Energy Balls as a healthy snack or a post-workout treat.

Ashwagandha Herbal Tea:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon Ashwagandha powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried chamomile flowers
• 1/2 teaspoon dried lavender flowers
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rose petals
• Honey or lemon (optional, for flavor)

Instructions:

• In a saucepan, bring water to a boil.
• Add Ashwagandha powder, chamomile flowers, lavender flowers, and rose petals to the boiling water.
• Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes.

Strain the tea into a cup and sweeten it with honey or add a squeeze of lemon, if desired. Sip and enjoy the calming and rejuvenating Ashwagandha Herbal Tea.

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Ashwagandha Breakfast Porridge

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup oats (rolled or steel-cut)
• 1 cup water or milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1 tablespoon Ashwagandha powder
• 1 tablespoon almond butter or any nut butter
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1 tablespoon raisins or chopped dried fruits
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
• Toppings: sliced bananas, chopped nuts, coconut flakes (optional)

Instructions:

• In a saucepan, bring water or milk to a boil.
• Add oats, Ashwagandha powder, almond butter, chia seeds, and raisins to the boiling liquid.
• Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the oats are cooked, and the mixture thickens (around 5-7 minutes).
• Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Sweeten with honey or maple syrup, if desired, and top with your favorite toppings. Enjoy the nourishing and satisfying Ashwagandha Breakfast Porridge to kickstart your day.

Ashwagandha Infused Ghee

Ingredients:

• 1 cup ghee (clarified butter)
• 2 tablespoons Ashwagandha powder

Instructions:

• In a saucepan, melt the ghee over low heat.
• Stir in the Ashwagandha powder and let it infuse for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Remove from heat and let the mixture cool.
• Once cooled, strain the ghee into a clean glass jar and discard the leftover powder.

Store the Ashwagandha-infused ghee at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Use it as a cooking oil or as a nourishing addition to warm meals for an added boost of Ayurvedic goodness.

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