Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha Latin name (Withania somnifera ) which belongs to the pepper family, is found in India and Africa.

The roots of ashwagandha are used medicinally and the seeds are used as to thicken milk in India,but use of the roots are extensive in ayurvedic medicine.

In Africa the roots are used to control fevers and inflammation.

The compounds found in aswagandha have a steroidal effect and are also simuliar to the action of asian ginseng. In fact this herb is called the "Indian ginseng".

The compounds in aswagandha stimulate the immune system and can also improve memory and is considered an adaptogen. Adaptogen means an herb will counter the bad effects of stress and promote well being.

There is no known side effects of this herb.

Studies have shown that ashwagandha was equal to or better than ginseng in improving problem-solving ability, reaction time and . It is also found to prevent Vitamin C loss due to stress and helpful in preventing stress related gastrointestinal ulcers

This herb can be grown with in most home gardens.