Stress Reduction, Neural Protection, and a Lot More from an Ancient Herb

Withania somnifera is the Latin name for Ashwagandha.

Ashwagandha. Fruits, leaves and seeds of the Indian medicinal plant Withania somnifera have been traditionally used for the Ayurvedic system as aphrodisiacs, diuretics and for treating memory loss.

Ashwagandha is a shrub that flourishes in India and North America. The roots of the Ashwagandha plant have been employed for millennia by Ayurvedic healers. Numerous modern studies have found that Ashwagandha is very effective in reducing inflammation, treating tumors, decreasing stress, increasing mental activity, invigorating the body, and as an antioxidant.

The antioxidant effect of active principles of W. somnifera may explain, at least in part, the reported anti-stress, cognition-facilitating, anti-inflammatory and anti-aging effects produced by them in experimental animals, and in clinical situations. A study, conducted in 2002, found that Ashwagandha leads to increased growth of axons and dendrites. Another study in 2001 found that the plant can enhance memory.

Conclusion

Chronic stress exacts a high price from our bodies as well as our minds. Many degenerative diseases, as well as premature aging, are associated with chronic nervous tension. There is great need for safe and effective prevention strategies to combat the ravages of stress on our nervous system.

Ashwagandha, an exotic Indian herb, has demonstrated anti-anxiety and neuroprotective (nerve protecting) effects, and tantalizing evidence suggests that it is also a cancer fighter. Animal toxicity studies indicate that this remarkable plant is safe and well tolerated.