Ashwagandha Root

Ashwagandha, or Withania somnifera is a plant of the Solanaceae or nightshade family. Its root is an important herb used in Ayurveda, the ancient medicine system of India. Ashwagandha is a short shrub that grows mainly in India and North America, and is known by the names of winter cherry and Indian ginseng. This herb from the land of India is mainly known as an adaptogen, which means that it can increase the body's ability to withstand both physical and mental stress. It has many other medicinal properties.

Root of Ashwagandha Plant

Traditionally, its root has been used for treating fever, and inflammation, by the native Americans and Africans. Even modern studies have revealed that ashwagandha has anti-inflammatory properties, and it can help to boost the immune and the nervous system. The herb contains flavonoids, which are known as potent antioxidants. Antioxidants are known to minimize cellular and tissue damage caused by the free radicals. Antioxidants can help to prevent many diseases including cancer, besides slowing down the aging process. It can also strengthen the immune system, by increasing the count of white blood cells in the body.

It can promote the health of the nervous system as well. It can have a sedative effect on the central nervous system, and prove beneficial in conditions like, nervous exhaustion, stress and anxiety. It may help to reduce the symptoms of drug withdrawal as well. Other conditions in which it can prove helpful are, insomnia, chronic fatigue, muscle weakness, decreased libido, infertility or impotence, memory loss, senility, premature aging and arthritis pain. In general, it can have a rejuvenating effect on the body and the mind. Presently, clinical trials are going on to find out if this herb is effective for conditions like, Parkinson's disease, bipolar disorder, diabetes, tuberculosis and bone cancer.

Ashwagandha Root Side Effects

In general, it is considered as a safe herb for both adults and children. When taking it for the first time, one can experience drowsiness. This side effect however, decreases over time, and it can be avoided by taking the herb before going to bed or at mealtime. Certain individuals can experience a few side effects like, gas and stomachache. Sometimes, one can also experience a slight elevation in body temperature after taking this root extract.

It is important to take ashwagandha only in the appropriate dosage, as overdose can result in diarrhea and vomiting. To find out the right dosage, you can talk to a herbalist or your health care provider. This herb can interact with certain medications like, barbiturates, antianxiety medications, prednisone and cyclosporine based medications. People using these drugs should avoid this herb or consult their physician before using this herb. Individuals with autoimmune conditions, inflammatory and muscular degenerative conditions, multiple sclerosis, lupus, digestive ailments, stomach ulcers, liver disease and diabetes should also avoid this herb. Its effects during pregnancy and breastfeeding have not been studied extensively, so it's better for pregnant and nursing women to avoid this herb.

If used in the appropriate dosage and in moderation, it may not cause any major side effects. But still, it is better to take this herb under the supervision of a health care provider, in order to avoid any adverse effect on health. Finally, if you observe any undesirable side effect even after taking this herb with all possible care and precaution, be sure to inform your physician as soon as possible.