FACTS

Known as Indian ginseng, this herb is derived from the roots and leaves of the Withania somnifera shrub and is part of the traditional Ayurvedic system of medicine. In the West, researchers have focused on isolating the one or two active ingredients within each herb. In the Ayurvedic tradition, however, the entire plant is used on the assumption that all the compounds in a plant are meant to work together. For more than 1,000 years, ashwagandha has been highly prized as a treatment for impotence, stress, infertility and arthritis. Because of its wide range of activity on many different body systems, ashwagandha is reputed to be an overall tonic that can promote health and vitality, much like ginseng. Also like ginseng, ashwagandha is reputed to increase stamina, physical peformance, and mental acuity. The concept of tonic herbs is difficult to describe in western terms because we so not have anything comparable in our system of medicine. In general, tonics such as ashwagandha are believed to strengthen and fortify the body so that it is better able to withstand stressful situations. In other words, these herbs help the body to maintain its equilibrium, even during difficult times.

Today, ashwagandha is included in many combination formulas of Ayurvedic herbs to treat a variety of ills. In particular, ashwagandha is now being heavily promoted as an aphrodisiac and sex-enhancing supplement. It is sold in combination with other herbal supplements that are reputed to improve sexual desire and function, such as puncturevine (Tribulas). Ayurvedic healers say that ashwagandha can improve sex drive and the ability to maintain an erection.

A natural anti-inflammatory agent, ashwagandha may help to reduce discomfort associated with arthritis. One study conducted at the University of Poona in Poona, India, reported that when given an herbal formula combining ashwagandha and zinc complex, patients reported a significant reduction in pain and stiffness. There are several Ayurvedic antiarthritic formulas on the market; many include boswellia, another Hot 100 herb.

POSSIBLE BENEFITS

• Enhances energy.
• Improves sexual performance.
• Relieves arthritis.

THE RIGHT AMOUNT

Take up to three 4.5-mg. Standardized tablets daily.

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