Some call it “Withania Somnifera,” some others call it “Indian Ginseng,” yet some say “poison gooseberry”. What about those who say it`s “water cherry”? Interestingly, it is also called “smell of a horse”. Whatever you call it, perhaps any of the aforementioned, or the four-syllable word that sounds so powerful, it almost depicts the greatness of the herb, —ashwagandha remains a wonder.
What`s the big deal about ashwagandha?
Source: [1]
If you were asked to mention ten health challenges the world battles today, be sure ashwagandha cures at least eight of your guesses. The perennial woody shrub is a powerful herb in Ayurvedic healing, a medical system originated in India over 3,000 years ago, which is used to treat diabetes. Ashwagandha which rarely grows more than 3 feet has simple leaves and a stem covered with hair. It has orange-red berry fruit and tuberous root, with yellow and scurfy seeds. It is mostly found in India, the Middle East, and Northern Africa. It is a vigor and strength imparting herb, so perhaps it`s no coincidence that it is called “the smell of a horse,” a name which has its root in Sanskrit —with the words “ashva” and “gandha” meaning “horse” and “smell” respectively—Ashwagandha. Actually, the root of ashwagandha has a strong aroma which is described as horse-like, hence the name, smell of a horse.
Ashwagandha has been confirmed to do all these:
- an increase in muscle mass and strength
- reduction of anxiety and depression
- control of bacterial infection
- enhancement of sexual potency for both sexes
- reduction of cholesterol
- reduction of brain cell degeneration
- combating the effects of stress
- protection of the immune system
- enhancement of sports performance
- improvement of learning and memory
- resolving menopausal problems
- promotion of graceful aging
- promotion of restful sleep
- useful in cancer treatment
Are you like me, asking, what does ashwagandha not do? Asides its root smelling like a horse, ashwagandha can indeed be likened to one, considering its potency. Its benefits to humankind can make it get a five-star rating over and over again.
What if I choose to grow ashwagandha?
Yes, you can, provided you have the right conditions for it. It wouldn`t be surprising if research someday says that seven out of ten people who read about ashwagandha ask this question or related ones.
Propagation and planting of ashwagandha
In India where it is mostly cultivated, it is discovered that it survives in regions with low rainfall right after the pre-monsoon, right in the beginning of rainy season in hot and humid weather conditions with a temperature around 75 – 85 F (25 – 30 C). Ashwagandha is a drought tolerant plant and grows in dry soil.
To cultivate it,
- plant seeds 2 cm deep and 10 cm independently when the temperature is around 70 F (20 C).
- Sufficiently water the seedlings while they are establishing.
- Thin out the weak plants after a month of growing, leaving about 50 – 60 cm space between plants.
The dry and sunny location of your garden is best for ashwagandha. Manure may be added to soil to enrich it. Note that ashwagandha cannot be grown in soil that is waterlogged and moisture-retaining.
Is ashwagandha altogether wonderful without side effects?
Like many other herbs and medications, there is always another side to the coin. Ashwagandha, however, has relatively few side effects, which you would agree with me, adds to its wonder. Below are major side effects of ashwagandha
- Pregnant women are advised to avoid using ashwagandha because it can lead to miscarriage.
- It is advised that individuals who retain iron (hemochromatosis) should avoid ashwagandha, as it retains iron.
- People with thyroid conditions are advised to stay away from ashwagandha as it may trigger hyperthyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland is overactive and generates an excess of thyroid hormone. The thyroid organ is located in the front of the neck and releases hormones that control metabolism.
So our own dear ashwagandha, jack of one trade and master of all, is naturally committed to the well-being of its consumers. It`s the jack of that trade, it never fails in its duty. And of course, it is the master of it and many responsibilities tied to ensuring well-being, as it is one of the herbs that are most trusted for centuries for its multi-functional benefits.
Go get some ashwagandha!
Source: [2]
References
[1] http://starsearchgupta.blogspot.com.ng
[2] www.store.nirogam.com
