Date: 16 Feb 2016
Latin name: Withania somnifera Dunal (Solanaceae)
Sanskrit/Indian name: Ashvagandha, Hayahvaya, Vajigandha, Asgandh
General information:
Literally translated, the Sanskrit name for Winter Cherry, Ashvagandha, means ‘the smell and strength of a horse’. Winter Cherry is a nervine tonic, an antioxidant and also possesses anti-inflammatory properties. It has been used in Ayurveda to boost the immune system and promote overall well-being.
Therapeutic constituents:
The root contains steroidal compounds which include the lactones Withaferin A and carbon-27-glycowithanolide, known collectively as the Withanolides. The Withanolides are responsible for the varied medicinal applications of the herb. Winter Cherry also contains a fair amount of alkaloids including tropine, pseudotropine, isopelletrine, anaferine and saponins, which impart medicinal properties to the herb.
Key therapeutic benefits:
- Winter Cherry is an unique herb with antistress and adaptogenic properties that improves physical and mental fitness and helps with daily stress management.
- It is a powerful antioxidant, which scavenges free radicals in cells that are responsible for premature aging.
- Winter Cherry has proven anti-inflammatory activity, which helps in the management of inflammatory joint disorders.
Post comment