Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is one of the most important Rasayana (rejuvenative) drugs in Ayurveda, often compared to Ginseng in its adaptogenic properties. The name 'Ashwagandha' means 'smelling like a horse' due to the characteristic horse-like odor of the fresh root. It is a small shrub growing 2-5 feet tall with greenish-yellow flowers and small red berries. The root is the primary medicinal part. It grows in drier parts of India - Rajasthan, MP, Maharashtra, and Gujarat. The root contains Withanolides (steroidal lactones) as the main active principles, along with alkaloids including Somniferine and Withasomnine. Multiple species exist but Bhavaprakasha notes that the Nagori Ashwagandha (from Nagaur in Rajasthan) is considered the best variety. The roots when dried are 1-1.5 feet long, cylindrical, and grayish-brown. Ashwagandha is used in general debility, nervous exhaustion, insomnia, reproductive weakness, and as an anti-aging tonic. It is unique among Rasayana drugs in being Ushna Virya (hot potency) yet Madhura Vipaka. This makes it suitable for Vata and Kapha conditions while not significantly aggravating Pitta. The text emphasizes its role as Balya (strength-promoting), Vrishya (aphrodisiac), and Nidrajanana (sleep-inducing). It is also used in Shotha (inflammation), Kshaya (consumption), and Shvitra (leucoderma). Oil prepared from Ashwagandha root is applied externally in Vata disorders. Dose: root powder 2-4 masha; with milk or ghee; decoction 1-2 tola.

• Rasayana (rejuvenative)
• Balya (strengthening)
• Vrishya (aphrodisiac)
• Vatahara (alleviates Vata)
• Kaphahara (alleviates Kapha)
• Nidrajanana (sleep-promoting)
• Shothahara (anti-inflammatory)
• Medhya (intellect-promoting)