Ashwagandha or winter cherry is a perennial plant, which has been used in Ayurveda and African traditional medicine for many years as a treatment to many diseases. The name Ashwagandha comes from Sanskrit. “Ashwa” means “horse” and “gandha” - “smell”. The name of the plant refers to its root, which has a horse-like smell. It has small green flowers and red fruit. Ashwagandha is cultivated in India and Nepal. Its berries can be used in producing cheese. Berries and root of the plant are also used to make medicine. Ashwagandha benefits lead in a fact that this herbal remedy acts as a tonic for your organism.
First you have to know about ashwagandha or with ania somnifera (its latin name) is that it is a wonderful adaptogenic herb. Adaptogenic substances, extracts or herbs help our body to resist stress and support normal physiological functions of our organism. Ashwagandha uses may be both internal and external. It is used by mouth to treat:
- insomnia;
- arthritis;
- anxiety;
- menstrual problems;
- bronchitis;
- liver problems;
- tuberculosis;
- asthma;
- tumors;
- hiccups;
- fibromyalgia.
External usage helps in healing:
- wounds;
- hemiplegia;
- backache.
Ashwagandha side effects are possible after taking it for a long period of time. Pregnant women are better not to use it. As it may affect blood pressure and blood sugar level, do not use it while surgery or if you have problems with blood pressure and in case of having diabetes. It also may irritate your stomach, so people suffering from ulcer are not recommended to take it. Before using it topically, it’s better to consult your doctor.