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Ashwagandha |
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ASHWAGANDHA
Articles by a Naturopathic
Doctor ( N.D.)
Ashwagandha can help you beat stress, sexual dysfunction, autoimmune disease, arthritis and even cancer... |
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ASHWAGANDHA |
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Ashwagandha can be a
stress buster |
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Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an Ayurvedic herb also known as Indian ginseng (although it is not strictly a member of the ginseng family) that has been traditionally used as an adrenal and nervous system tonic, an adaptogen, and an immune modulator. In Ayurveda, it is classified as a rasayana (rejuvenation) herb, meaning that it can promote physical and mental health, rejuvenate the body in debilitated conditions and increase longevity. |
Current research has implicated Ashwagandha for the treatment of an incredible variety of conditions including: anxiety, sexual dysfunction, neurologically degenerative conditions (Alzheimer's and Parkinson's), autoimmune diseases, arthritis and many different types of cancer.
Ashwagandha as an Adaptogen
Ashwagandha has active constituents called withanolides, chemicals that resemble human steroid (stress and sex) hormones. This gives them the potential to supplement these hormones in the body in cases of insufficient production or to compete with excess levels produced. This means that supplementation can help normalize hormone levels, whether high or low. In addition to the effects of the withanolides, supplementation of ashwagandha prevents the depletion of vitamin C in the body. Vitamin C is required by the adrenal gland for the production of hormones, such as cortisol and sex hormones. Ashwagandha has also been studied for its ability to increase sexual functioning and physical endurance. This may also be due to Ashwagandha's support of the adrenal gland, as testosterone is produced in the adrenals and is responsible for libido and muscle growth. This herb has also been found to improve semen quality with supplementation.
Immune System Modulation and Neuroprotection
Ashwagandha also modulates the immune system, helping to promote underactive immune response and reduce overactive immune responses like those in autoimmune diseases. Because of its anti-inflammatory effects, Ashwagandha has also been studied for its ability to protect joint cartilage in cases of rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. Due to its neuroprotective effects, Ashwagandha is also used in cases of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases as well. In addition, this herb has been established as an effective treatment for anxiety in several studies in the last few years.
Ashwagandha and Cancer
Ashwagandha has been shown to kill cancer cells by at least five different pathways. Because of its ability to reduce the expression of a certain estrogen receptor in human tissues, it has been found to help treat certain breast cancers as well as to act as a male aphrodesiac. It has also been found to increase reactive oxygen species (a type of free radical) in many different kinds of cancer cells, helping to force their natural destruction in the body. Some cancer cell types that have been shown to be affected by Ashwagandha are: lymphomas, leukemia, glioblastoma, renal, lung, pancreatic, and breast cancers.
How can I take Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha can be purchased as raw herb, liquid extract or tincture and encapsulated herb. The root is the part of the plant that is used medicinally, although some of the anti-cancer research involves use of the leaf extract. This herb can be found alone or in combination formulas for the treatment of a variety of conditions. Dosing varies depending on the condition and particular study, but it has been safely supplemented between 1-2g daily of root extract. When Ashwagandha is found in a tea form, it can be safely taken by up to 3 cups a day (using 1-6g of whole herb). As a liquid or tincture, it can be dosed at between 2 and 4ml three times daily. Dosing for leaf extract has not yet been established as the research is still quite new in this area.
Important Information
Pregnant women should not use Ashwagandha because it may increase the risk of miscarriage. Do not use if you suffer from hypertension. Ashwagandha may also increase the effect of sedative and anti-anxiety medication. Do not use if you are taking digoxin as there is a potential for interaction. |
Ashwagandha–
QUICK FACTS
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PARTS USED
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Root or leaf. |
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APPLICATIONS
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Stress-related illnesses, autoimmune conditions, sexual dysfunction, neurologic conditions, arthritis, cancer. |
OPTIMUM
DOSAGE
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· There is no standard dose although generally it is used between 1 and 2 grams daily. 3 cups of tea per day, or 2-4ml of tincture three times daily. (Clinical doses may be higher as recommended by your practitioner). |
WORKS WELL
WITH
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· Vitamin C, Vitamin B5, other immunomodulating and anti-cancer herbs. |
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IMPORTANT
INFORMATION
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products |
· Do not use Ashwagandha with sedatives or anti-anxiety medications.
· Do not use if you are pregnant, suffer from hypertension, or if you are taking digoxin. |
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For
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All articles
copyright National Nutrition
2001 - 2012. For educational
purposes only. Please note
that while National Nutrition
supports your right to use
natural health care products for
any therapeutic purpose that you
see fit, that the information on
this website should not be
considered as a claim or as a
substitute for medical advice. |
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