Ashwagandha: The Nature's Revitaliser

The Indian Ginseng or the Indian Winter Cherry, known as 'Ashwagandha' among Ayurveda practitioners is hailed for its medicinal properties. Ashwagandha means gandha (smell) of an Ashwa (horse) as its smell resembles that of a sweaty horse and because its medicinal and antioxidant effect gives the vigour of a horse. This shrub's root boosts the immunity, improves memory, and provides physical and emotional wellbeing. The ayurveda medicine helps in stress reduction and cures cerebral disorders.

The roots and leaves of the plant are used to prepare traditional powder, decoctions, oils, poultice, etc. The herbal medicine acts as a major health promoter and revitaliser. The side effects are null and the effectiveness of this medicine has made it the major constituent in many Ayurvedic medicines. The anti-carcinogenic factor of Ashwagandha is useful in fighting cancer producing agents in the body. The medicine is useful in curing psychological instabilities and traumas acting as an antidepressant. The ultimate fatigue-cutter, Ashwagandha has been a boon to the herbal healers. The herb is popularly used as a powerful natural aphrodisiac and cures the gonadic disorders.

A natural pain-killer, Ashwagandha also helps to provide relief in pain and discomfort. Respiratory problems and discomforts are cured with regular usage of this medicinal plant. This drug reduces the free radicles which are the cause for ageing and also for nerve tissue damage that occurs in epilepsy, Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's. But the medicine is taken in high doses leads to steroidal reaction and hence should be taken only under perscription.