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Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an evergreen shrub1 whose root has been used as an adaptogen in India's traditional Ayurvedic and Unani medicine systems1 and whose supplements are often promoted for stress and anxiety, sleep, male infertility, and athletic performance2. Its root is said to smell like a wet horse, which explains its Sanskrit name1, and contains withanolides structurally similar to ginsenosides3. Ashwagandha has been used medicinally for thousands of years, especially in traditional Ayurvedic medicine2 and is used for anxiety and insomnia1. It is generally well tolerated for up to about three months1, but rare liver injury has been reported2, with some reported cases of acute liver injury involving individuals who had pre-existing liver disease1; avoidance is advised during pregnancy and for people with hormone-sensitive prostate cancer2.
Dosage & Duration
Dosage
Doses are population estimates that vary widely between individuals.
Duration
Subjective Effects
Pharmacology
Interactions
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Tolerance
Harm Potential
Toxicity
Rare cases of liver injury have been reported, particularly in individuals with preexisting liver conditions; hepatotoxicity appears uncommon in those without underlying hepatic disease.
History & Culture
Ashwagandha’s roots are considered to smell like a horse, as reflected in its Sanskrit name (ashwa: horse; gandha: smell)4. A related traditional belief held that consuming the herb would impart the strength and virility of a horse. Its roots have been used by Ayurvedic practitioners as folk remedies5, and the plant is also known as Indian ginseng and winter cherry.5
Legality
References
Citations
Article Status
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