Winter cherry
Tuesday, June 13, 2006 (02:46:49)

Posted by Cougar

Winter cherry
Latin name:Withania somnifera
Sanskrit name:Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is among the most important herbs in the Ayurvedic pharmacy. Classically known for its rejuvenative benefits, it is the subject of considerable modern scientific attention. It has recently been referred to as "Indian ginseng" for its reputed restorative benefits, although these two timeless tonics, ginseng and ashwagandha, are botanically unrelated.

In Sanskrit, the name ashwagandha means "the smell of a horse" implying that this aromatic herb provides the strength of a stallion. It has a traditional use in supporting rejuvenation after illness and as a sexual enhancer for both men and women. Ashwagandha is sometimes referred to as an aphrodisiac, which in Ayurveda is a term applied to substances that enhance the quality of reproductive tissues as well as enliven sexual potency. Ashwagandha is the primary rasayana or rejuvenative for masculine energy.

The Science of Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is often classified as an adaptogen, which means it helps to modify the harmful effects of stress on the body. Studies in animals have suggested that ashwagandha can limit the damage of free radicals through its antioxidant activity.

Ashwagandha has been shown to have a measurable effect on the immune system. It is capable of protecting the activity of immune cells that are subjected to chemicals that usually inhibit their function. This immune protecting property of ashwagandha has been studied for the possible benefit of reducing the side effects of radiation and cancer chemotherapy treatments.

Ashwagandha may have a direct effect on limiting the growth of cancer cells. Extracts of ashwagandha may also increase the sensitivity of cancer cells to the effects of radiation therapy. The combination of its ability to protect healthy cells while making cancerous ones more susceptible to treatment suggests that ashwagandha may play an important role in modern cancer therapy. Further studies are needed to determine if this potential benefit can be realized in people. One of the classic uses of ashwagandha is to calm mental turbulence. Some studies looking into the influence of ashwagandha on the brain have reported effects on GABA receptors, the site of action of tranquilizing drugs such as Valium and Ativan. More research is clearly warranted.

The Practical Use of Ashwagandha
We use ashwagandha at the Chopra Center for its tonic and rejuvenative effects. With its beneficial influence on the nervous system it is commonly prescribed for people who complain of fatigue, difficulty concentrating and a general sense of ungroundedness.

In patients facing cancer ashwagandha can be a valuable ally. As discussed above it may have value during treatments but we more commonly recommend it in the recuperative phase as people are attempting to regain their energy and strength.

Ayurveda and Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is a beneficial rejuvenating herb for both Vata and Kapha imbalances. Carrying the three tastes of bitter, astringent and sweet it can be a tonic for all three doshas, although because it is mildly heating it can slightly aggravate Pitta when taken in excess.

Precautions
Very large doses of ashwagandha have been reported to induce abortions in animals. Despite the lack of similar reports in human, ashwagandha should be avoided in pregnancy. Large doses may also cause mild digestive upset so it should be used cautiously in people with known peptic ulcer disease. Familiar name: Amrit, Heart-leaved moonseed
Latin name: Tinospora cordifolia
Sanskrit name: Amrit, Guduchi

A classical Vedic myth relates that the ancient gods churned the primordial ocean producing an ambrosial nectar that conferred immortality on any being that partook of it. This nectar was called amrit meaning “imperishable”. The application of this powerful name to this native Indian plant relects its position in the Ayurvedic pharmacy as a valued tonic herb, conferring vitality and the energy of youth. Although modern studies cannot yet confirm its immortalizing qualities, there is an expanding body of research to suggest that amrit does offer broad health promoting properties.

Botanical and Phytochemical Information

Tinospora cordifolia is an attractive perennial creeping plant with heart shaped leaves. It favors shady, damp environments and tends to grow amongst hedge bushes. Amrit has a papery, light gray bark and small yellow flowers. The leaves, stems and roots are all used medicinally.

The Science of Amrit

Many studies have evaluated the effects of amrit on the immune system. Laboratory studies have shown that amrit can enhance both the production of antibodies as well as improve the function of macrophages, the cells responsible for gobbling up foreign proteins. In animals that receive immune toxic drugs, amrit helps restore the production of natural immune enhancing chemicals such as interferon and tumor necrosis factor (TNF). Animals with serious infections given amrit are able to more effectively clear the bacteria resulting in more rapid and complete recovery. Tinsopora cordifolia does not appear to have direct antibiotic activity; rather, it seems to stimulate the host’s immune defense system to function more effectively. This has been shown true against fungal and parasitic as well as bacterial infections.

Amrit has also demonstrated potentially useful properties in cancer. A recent study reported that amrit killed tumor cells very effectively when added to a culture of cancer cells. In another animal study amrit was shown to have potent antioxidant properties which substantially reduced the side effects of a cancer chemotherapy drug on the blood producing cells in the bone marrow. These different properties paint an interesting picture of amrit’s potential therapeutic effects. It strengthens natural immunity, may have anti-cancer activity and is capable of protecting healthy cells from toxic influences. Reports have also suggested that amrit helps to stabilize blood sugar and lower cholesterol levels.

Amrit can be classified as an adaptogen, helping the individual adapt more readily to life challenges. This class of herbs, which includes ginseng and ashwagandha, offers protection against the deleterious health effects from a wide range of stresses.

The Practical Use of Amrit

Amrit is just beginning to become available in the West. It is usually a component of Ayurvedic formulas designed to enhance immunity and modify a person’s response to stress. Its traditional role has been in the treatment of infectious illnesses, ranging from a cold to syphilis. It has a rejuvenative as well as detoxifying effect. Amrit is a part of formulas used in the treatment of chronic skin disorders such as psoriasis or eczema, although I have not seen any studies that have attempted to quantify its role in dermatological conditions. It is also reported to be one of the best herbal medicines for gout.

Ayurveda and Amrit

Amrit contains the bitter, pungent and astringent tastes. It has a heating potency with a sweet post-digestive effect. It is classically used to clear the system of excessive Pitta accumulation but is balancing to all three doshas.

Precautions

No significant adverse effects have been reported with amrit. It can be slightly constipating if used for a prolonged time is people who are prone to sluggish bowels.