Latin Name(s): Withania Somnifera

English Name(s): Winter Cherry

Sanskrit / Indian Name (s): Ashwagandha

Cure for: In Ayurveda ashwaganda is regarded as a rasayana herb (a herb that works on a nonspecific basis to enhance health and longevity). This herb is also considered as an adaptogen, a nontoxic herb that works on a nonspecific basis to regularize physiological function, working on the HPA axis and the neuroendocrine system. Fruits, leaves and seeds of the plant have been traditionally used for the Ayurvedic system as aphrodisiacs, diuretics and for treating memory loss. The roots and berries of the plant are used in many herbal medicines.

The roots and leaves of the plant are prepared traditionally as powder, decoction, oil, poultice, etc. These have been suggested for the remedy of various health problems nervous disorders, intestinal infections, and impotency. Above all, it is popularly used by physicians in India as a powerful aphrodisiac. In Ayurveda, the fresh roots are sometimes boiled in milk, prior to drying, in order to leach out undesirable constituents. The berries are used as a substitute for rennet, to coagulate milk in cheese making.