Natural Herb or Supplement of the Week- Ashwagandha

Many natural remedies have not been approved by the FDA yet have had success with many people. We at Healthy Living are just going to give you the treatment and claims of some of these Natural cures. In the end you have to decide whether it is right for you. Today's herb is
Ashwagandha.

Ashwagandha

is a member of the pepper family known as Withania somnifera. Ashwagandha root, also known as winter cherry or Indian ginseng, is an important herb from the Ayurvedic or Indian system of medicine. Ashwagandha is a small evergreen shrub with long roots and little greenish flowers bearing fruits that are orange-red when ripe. In India, the shoots and seeds of the plant are used to thicken milk. Ashwagandha is one of the most highly valuable herb in the Ayurvedic medical system. The roots are used medicinally and are frequently included in ayurvedic formulas.

Medicinal uses and health benefits

Ashwagandha contains flavonoids and several active ingredients of the withanolide class. Ashwagandha acts as an adaptogen, an immune modulator, norishing and strengthening the inner reserve of the human body. Ashwagandha is rich in iron, which contributes to increased red blood cell count. Ashwagandha contains significant amounts of the amino acids arginine and ornithine. These amino acids are needed for proper nervous system function. Ashwagandha root stimulates the immune system, can reduce inflammation, and may even improve memory. Ashwaganda is an adaptogen. Adaptogens are substances that non-specifically enhance and regulate the body's ability to withstand stress and increase its general performance in ways that help the whole body resist disease.
Ashwaganda has a sedative effect on the central nervous system. It will enhance the effect of any other central nervous system sedatives that are taken at the same time. Ashwagandha has been used for strengthening the body and for helping to prevent disease. Ashwagandha has shown benefits in treating both anxiety and depression, enhancing the anti-tumor effects of chemotherapy, stimulation of thyroid function, and improvement in memory and mental function.

Side effects, precautions, interactions

No significant side-effects or known drug interactions have been reported with ashwagandha. Ashwagandha is considered safe when used in accordance with proper dosing guidelines. Ashwaganda is contraindicated in conjunction with sedatives or anxioletics or if one is suffering from stomach ulcers. Ashwaganda is not recommended for use by pregnant women because large doses of ashwagandha may possess abortifacient properties.

source: vitamin and health supplement guide

General Safety Advisory

~The information in this document does not replace medical advice.

~Before taking an herb or a botanical, consult a doctor or other health care provider

-especially if you have a disease or medical condition,take any medications, are pregnant or nursing, or are planning to have an operation.

~Before treating a child with an herb or a botanical, consult with a doctor or other health care provider.

~Like drugs, herbal or botanical preparations have chemical and biological activity. They may have side effects. They may interact with certain medications. These interactions can cause problems and can even be dangerous.

~If you have any unexpected reactions to an herbal or a botanical preparation, inform your doctor or other health care provider