Roots of Winter cherry are highly acclaimed tonic for brain and nervous system in Ayurveda. Its usage is recommended in preventive health care. It is considered as "Medhya" which implies to its beneficial effects to the brain. Detail investigations, both clinical and experimental, observed that Ashwagandha acts as an antistress and adaptogenic herb. Regular use of Ashwagandha improves stress tolerance, thereby enhancing the mental capabilities. It is also known to improve the quality of immune functions.
By virtue of these uses it is often referred to as "Indian Ginseng".
Ashwagandha might prove useful in reducing depression levels.
Ashwagandha is good for boosting the libido in men and can be used in the formulation of medicine for erectile dysfunction (ED).
Ashwagandha has been found to be useful in improving the muscle mass, body composition & overall strength.
Ashwagandha uses also include increasing sperm count & motility. It helps increase testosterone levels and significantly boosts sperm quality and fertility in men
One of the Ashwagandha benefits is to control diabetes. Ashwagandha stimulates the pancreas to secrete insulin which helps lower blood sugar levels and hence control diabetes.
Ashwagandha supplements may improve brain function, memory & reaction times.
Ashwagandha has been scientifically proven to reduce stress and anxiety. Withania Somnifera helps reduce Cortisol also known as stress hormone which is released by the adrenal glands in response to stress.
Studies have shown that consumption of Ashwagandha helps boost immunity. Withania Somnifera also helps improve white blood cells & red blood cells.
Ashwagandha has proven antibacterial properties. Withania Somnifera helps to prevent bacterial infections.
Ashwagandha health benefits also include improving heart health by lowering cholesterol.
Ashwagandha may be able to benefit people with low thyroid function since animal studies show that it has a thyroid hormone balancing effect. Withania Somnifera root extract if given on a daily basis, can increase the secretion of thyroid hormones.
Ashwagandha is characterized by the presence of steroidal lactones, alkaloids and flavonoids. The steroidal lactones of Ashwagandha are collevtively known as Withanolides. Ashwagandha roots are reported to contain more than 30 steroidal lactones and about 20 alkaloids. Many of the chemical constituents have been investigated for different biological activities.