Ashwagandha: Uses, Benefits & Side Effects
By Dr Siddharth Gupta +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr Siddharth Gupta
Last updated: Oct 22, 2024 Published on: Apr 13, 2022
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By Dr Siddharth Gupta +2 more
Table of Contents
Ashwagandha or Withania somnifera is a popular herb in the Ayurvedic system of medicine. It is a small shrub that belongs to the family Solanaceae. It might be useful for different diseases and mostly as a nervine tonic (has a soothing effect on nerves). Ashwagandha is commonly called Indian Ginseng or Indian winter cherry. Ashwagandha is known for its rasayana (tonic) property. Rasayana is a herbal or metallic formulation that stimulates a youthful physical and mental state of health as well as happiness.1
Ashwagandha is cultivated in dry regions of South Asia, Africa, and Central Asia. More than 50 chemical constituents have been isolated from different parts of the ashwagandha plant.[1]
Did you know?
In 100 grams of ashwagandha, the nutrients found are:
The potential properties of ashwagandha are:
Ashwagandha is also called an ‘adaptogenic’ herb or a ‘royal’ herb since it helps reduce stress, and helps your body adapt to changes. It rejuvenates various body systems like the immune, reproductive, and endocrine systems.
Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)
The potential uses of ashwagandha for human health are as follows
Ashwagandha might have anxiolytic (anxiety-relieving) properties that are similar to that of the drug lorazepam. According to an animal study, both ashwagandha and lorazepam might help reduce anxiety in animal models. Ashwagandha might also exhibit potential antidepressant properties. This indicates that Ashwagandha might help with depression and anxiety.1 However, more research is required. Anxiety and depression are that may need serious attention and one should seek medical help from a professional for it.
Ashwagandha might have potential anti-arthritic properties that may be widely accepted and reported. Ashwagandha might help relieve pain by soothing the nervous system. In an experimental study, patients were given a formula containing ashwagandha. This herbal formulation showed the potential to reduce the severity of pain and disability.1,4 However, arthritis is a serious condition and must be diagnosed and treated by a doctor.
Ashwagandha is a popular Ayurvedic rasayana and belongs to medhyarasayanas, a sub-group of rasayanas. Medhya means mental/intellectual ability. Ashwagandha might help enhance memory and intelligence. This potential of ashwagandha for cognition was seen in children with compromised memory and old age as anecdotal evidence.1 However, such claims lack scientific back-up. Therefore, more research is required.
The circulatory system and cardiovascular health are adversely affected due to mental stress. Stress also affects the body’s antioxidant defense system. Ashwagandha might help the body adapt to stress. It may also be effective in improving mental and physical health.5 However, more research is required to ascertain such claims.
PharmEasy Recommends –EverHerb Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha may be helpful in combating hair loss and promoting hair growth. Hair loss usually occurs due to stress. The lactones present in ashwagandha can reduce the levels of cortisol hormone in the body, which relieves stress.
Dr. Anuja Bodhare, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)
In a study, treatment with an aqueous extract of ashwagandha showed potential to increase the pain threshold (a point beyond which a trigger produces pain) compared to that of placebo showing that ashwagandha might be an analgesic agent.4 However, further research is required to state these as concrete facts.
Ashwagandha is derived from two words-ashwa meaning ‘horse’ and gandha meaning ‘smell’. It is named so because the fresh roots of ashwagandha emit the smell of horse. It is believed to boost vitality and strength in your body, comparable to a horse.
Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
Also Read: Shilajit: Uses, Benefits & Side Effects
Ashwagandha might help deal with problems related to sleep and may contain sleep-inducing properties. It might also help one to fall asleep faster and help have an improved sleep quality.7
Though there are studies that show the potential uses of ashwagandha in various conditions, these are insufficient and there is a need for further studies to establish the true extent of the benefits of ashwagandha on human health.
The important formulations of ashwagandha include:
It is also available in the form of tea, pills, gummies, or tincture. The roots, seeds, leaves, and flowers of ashwagandha can be used for medicinal purposes.1,7,8
Did you know ashwagandha contains high levels of polyphenols, mainly catechin, which is responsible for its antioxidant actions? All the parts of ashwagandha, including the roots, leaves and fruits, are rich in catechin, which provides potential health benefits.
Dr. Smita Barode, B.A.M.S, M.S.
You must consult a qualified doctor before taking any herbal supplements. Do not discontinue or replace an ongoing treatment of modern medicine with an ayurvedic/herbal preparation without consulting a qualified doctor.
The safety of the long-term use of ashwagandha has not been fully documented. However, the most common side effects of ashwagandha are:
The less common side effects are:
Ashwagandha might also cause liver damage. It is essential to call your healthcare provider when you experience any side effects, particularly those consistent with liver damage like itchy skin or jaundice.7 Therefore, kindly consult an Ayurvedic physician before using ashwagandha. They will tailor the prescription according to your health needs.
Ashwagandha may be helpful in improving the performance of swimmers as it boosts stamina. It is possible that the duration that can be covered by swimmers taking ashwagandha is longer than those not taking it.
Dr. Ashok Pal, B.A.M.S.
Also Read: Bakuchi: Uses, Benefits, Dosage & Side Effects
Ashwagandha must be avoided in some conditions like:
Kindly do not self-medicate, alter, replace, or discontinue any ongoing treatment. Please consult a doctor.
It is essential to take precautions when using ashwagandha with:
To make sure that ashwagandha does not interfere with other medications, it is essential to consult your physician.4
Also Read: Pippali: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects & More!
Ashwagandha is a well-known herb used in Ayurvedic medicine. Its common names include winter cherry and Indian ginseng. It is obtained from a small evergreen shrub known as Withania sominfera. Ashwagandha might be helpful for a wide variety of ailments.7
In India, ashwagandha is cultivated in Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan Punjab and Madhya Pradesh.4
The decoction of the roots of ashwagandha might be helpful for colds and chills. The root bark might be helpful for asthma.4 Kindly do not self-medicate. Consult a doctor before taking ashwagandha for the common cold.
In Ayurvedic medicine, the root of ashwagandha is used as an anti-inflammatory agent by an Ayurvedic physician for dealing with tumors, swellings, scrofula (a type of tuberculosis), and rheumatoid arthritis (a condition affecting joints and bones).4 However, you are advised not to use ashwagandha for the above-mentioned conditions by yourself. Kindly consult an Ayurvedic physician for the same.
Ashwagandha is indicated in conditions like syncope (temporary loss of consciousness associated with insufficient blood flow to the brain), piles, tumors, cervical lymphadenitis (enlargement of neck lymph nodes), gout (a type of arthritis), diseases of the skin, vitiligo (a disorder that causes the skin to lose color), lockjaw, heart failure, abscesses (a painful collection of pus), stiffness of the knee, cachexia (muscle and weight loss), bone fracture and diabetic carbuncle (cluster of painful boils).4 Kindly consult a doctor. Do not self-medicate.
Ashwagandha, an adaptogenic herb, is known to reduce stress, boost immunity, improve cognitive function, and enhance overall vitality. Its active compounds may help regulate cortisol levels, promote relaxation, and support physical endurance, making it a popular choice in traditional medicine and wellness practices.
The recommended dosage of ashwagandha typically ranges from 300 mg to 600 mg per day for most adults, divided into two or three doses. However, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dosage based on individual health factors and specific needs.
While ashwagandha is generally not associated with weight gain, some studies suggest it may support weight management by reducing stress-related overeating and regulating cortisol levels. However, individual responses may vary, and it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating ashwagandha into a weight management regimen.
Ashwagandha has been studied for its potential to increase testosterone levels in men with low levels or infertility issues, attributed to its ability to reduce stress and improve overall hormonal balance. While research shows promising results, individual responses may vary, and consulting with a healthcare professional is advisable before using ashwagandha for this purpose.
Also Read: Vidarikand: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects & More!
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