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Ashwaghanda
(Withonia somnifera)
Parts used
Root.
Properties
Rejuvenative and energy tonic; nervine
-- sedative and tonic; astringent, vulnerary.
Energy
Warming, nutritive. Calms and strengthens Air. Increases Fire. Reduces excess Water.
Ashwaghanda, which means 'that which gives the vitality of the horse',
is an important tonic herb in Ayurvedic medicine and is now becoming available in the West.
In Ayurveda, the concept of rejuvenating is comparable to that of energy tonic as discussed under ginseng.
Ashwaghanda is similar to ginseng in that it strengthens both tissues and vital energy,
especially those of the nervous system, so it is good for the treatment of wasting and deficiency
(even in children); the negative effects of overwork and ageing; and for strengthening the immune
system through its influence on vital and reproductive fluids. It can be taken with warm milk to
promote sound sleep. It could well be used as a regular health-maintaining tonic as well
as added to formulas for specific weaknesses.
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