Reviewed by medical experts • For informational purposes only
Ashwagandha scientifically known as Withania somnifera consists of dried mature roots valued as a Rasayana or rejuvenator in Ayurveda. Possessing Bitter and Astringent taste with Hot potency it effectively pacifies Vata and Kapha doshas. It acts as a Balya or strength promoter and Vajikarana or aphrodisiac making it essential for treating Vataroga or neurological disorders general debility known as Daurbalya and emaciation. It is also indicated for Klaibya or impotence and mental disorders like Unmada. Common Ayurvedic formulations include Asvagandhadyarishta and Asvagandhadi Lehya. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India recommends a dosage of 3 to 6 grams of the root powder often consumed with milk to support vitality and tissue nutrition.
Ashwagandha, botanically known as Withania somnifera, is one of the most vital herbs in Ayurveda. It is classified as a Rasayana (rejuvenator) and Balya (strength promoter). The name implies that the fresh root smells like a horse (Ashwa), and traditionally, consuming it is believed to give one the strength and vitality of a horse. It is extensively used to treat disorders arising from the aggravation of Vata dosha, nervous exhaustion, and emaciation.
Ashwagandha consists of the dried mature roots of a perennial shrub found in waste lands and cultivated fields throughout India. In Ayurveda, it is highly valued as a Rasayana (tonic/rejuvenator) that nourishes the body tissues (Dhatus). It is renowned for its ability to combat debility, enhance vitality, and calm the nervous system.
According to the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, Ashwagandha possesses the following qualities:
Ashwagandha is indicated for the following conditions in Ayurvedic texts:
Ashwagandha is generally considered safe when taken in prescribed dosages as a Rasayana. It is a key ingredient in pediatric formulations like Aravindasava (used for pediatric conditions), indicating its safety for various age groups when properly formulated.
Can it be taken daily?
Yes. Ashwagandha is classified as a Rasayana (rejuvenator), which is a category of herbs often used daily to maintain health, vitality, and immunity.
When should it be taken?
Powders are typically taken twice daily. Formulations like Ashwagandhadi Lehya are often taken with milk.
Can it be taken with milk/water?
Yes. Milk is a common Anupana (vehicle) for Ashwagandha, especially when used for strength (Balya) or as a restorative tonic.
Written By
Sathyaprek
BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Varun Gupta
MD Pharmacology, MBBS
Last updated on
27 Sep 2022 • 06:23 PM (IST)
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Reviewed by medical experts • For informational purposes only
Ashwagandha scientifically known as Withania somnifera consists of dried mature roots valued as a Rasayana or rejuvenator in Ayurveda. Possessing Bitter and Astringent taste with Hot potency it effectively pacifies Vata and Kapha doshas. It acts as a Balya or strength promoter and Vajikarana or aphrodisiac making it essential for treating Vataroga or neurological disorders general debility known as Daurbalya and emaciation. It is also indicated for Klaibya or impotence and mental disorders like Unmada. Common Ayurvedic formulations include Asvagandhadyarishta and Asvagandhadi Lehya. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India recommends a dosage of 3 to 6 grams of the root powder often consumed with milk to support vitality and tissue nutrition.
Ashwagandha, botanically known as Withania somnifera, is one of the most vital herbs in Ayurveda. It is classified as a Rasayana (rejuvenator) and Balya (strength promoter). The name implies that the fresh root smells like a horse (Ashwa), and traditionally, consuming it is believed to give one the strength and vitality of a horse. It is extensively used to treat disorders arising from the aggravation of Vata dosha, nervous exhaustion, and emaciation.
Ashwagandha consists of the dried mature roots of a perennial shrub found in waste lands and cultivated fields throughout India. In Ayurveda, it is highly valued as a Rasayana (tonic/rejuvenator) that nourishes the body tissues (Dhatus). It is renowned for its ability to combat debility, enhance vitality, and calm the nervous system.
According to the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, Ashwagandha possesses the following qualities:
Ashwagandha is indicated for the following conditions in Ayurvedic texts:
Ashwagandha is generally considered safe when taken in prescribed dosages as a Rasayana. It is a key ingredient in pediatric formulations like Aravindasava (used for pediatric conditions), indicating its safety for various age groups when properly formulated.
Can it be taken daily?
Yes. Ashwagandha is classified as a Rasayana (rejuvenator), which is a category of herbs often used daily to maintain health, vitality, and immunity.
When should it be taken?
Powders are typically taken twice daily. Formulations like Ashwagandhadi Lehya are often taken with milk.
Can it be taken with milk/water?
Yes. Milk is a common Anupana (vehicle) for Ashwagandha, especially when used for strength (Balya) or as a restorative tonic.
Written By
Sathyaprek
BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Varun Gupta
MD Pharmacology, MBBS
Last updated on
27 Sep 2022 • 06:23 PM (IST)
Read Our Editorial Policy
Want to know more?
Have issue with the content?
Report Problem