Withania somnifera

Withania somnifera
Family:Withania somnifera; Abortifacient; Adaptogen; Antibiotic; Aphrodisiac; Astringent; Deobstruent; Diuretic; Narcotic; Sedative; Tonic.
Common name:Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is one of the most widespread tranquillisers used in India where it holds a position of importance similar to ginseng in China. It acts mainly on the reproductive and nervous systems having a rejuvenative effect on the body and is used to improve vitality and aid recovery after chronic illness. The plant is little known in the West. The whole plant but especially the leaves and the root bark are abortifacient adaptogen antibiotic aphrodisiac deobstruent diuretic narcotic strongly sedative and tonic. Internally it is used to tone the uterus after a miscarriage and also in treating post-partum difficulties. It is also used to treat nervous exhaustion debility insomnia wasting diseases failure to thrive in children impotence infertility multiple sclerosis etc. Externally it has been applied as a poultice to boils swellings and other painful parts. The root is harvested in the autumn and dried for later use. Some caution is advised in the use of this plant since it is toxic. The fruit is diuretic. The seed is diuretic and hypnotic.

Herbal Database

01.01.2005 06:50 []