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Withania
Withania somnifera
Overview
Withania is an Ayurvedic herb that is sometimes referred to as 'Indian ginseng' because its traditional applications as an energy and STRESS tonic are similar those of Korean ginseng. Its Indian name ashwagandha is said to refer to the 'smell and strength of a horse', in reference to both the plant's odour and its reputation as an aphrodisiac.
Usage
Withania has traditionally been used to reduce STRESS and FATIGUE. Research suggests that it may help offset the physiological effects of ongoing STRESS (e.g. lowered IMMUNITY) by reducing circulating levels of STRESS hormones such as cortisol.
Its ability to enhance energy levels may be partially due to its iron content, and its documented ability to stimulate the production of red blood cells. These effects make it especially useful when anaemia or low iron levels are contributing to FATIGUE problems.
Withania has also traditionally been considered a tonic for the brain and memory, so is ideal for use by students and others who need to perform at their mental peak, especially under STRESSful circumstances.
Withania may also have benefits for erectile dysfunction. When healthy men in their 50s took 3g per day of withania for a year, around 70% of them reported improvements in sexual performance. In cases where sexual dysfunction is associated with tension or exhaustion, withania is sometimes taken with Korean ginseng, Rhodiola and Rehmannia to support men's sexual function, STRESS adaptation, vitality and energy.
Withania is rarely used alone, and is usually taken in with other herbs. For example, to promote mental alertness it may be combined with memory tonics such as Brahmi, Ginkgo and Lemon balm. For STRESS-related FATIGUE, combining it with Siberian ginseng, Schizandra, Licorice, and Gotu kola may be more appropriate.
Withania is also sometimes incorporated into a multi-herbal tonic that works synergistically to support the functioning of all the body organs. Other herbs that are typically included in a blend like this include remedies for the digestive system (e.g. Globe artichoke and Ginger), immune system (astragalus and echinacea), cardiovascular system (ginkgo and hawthorn), and nervous system (Siberian ginseng and Gotu kola).
Instructions
- To support mental energy, memory, and concentration during times of STRESS, take up to 2g of withania per day, with cognitive tonics such as Brahmi, Ginkgo and Lemon balm
- To support energy levels, enhance the body's ability to withstand STRESS, and promote men's sexual health, take up to 6g per day of withania, with herbs that support the nervous system, such as Korean ginseng, Siberian ginseng, Schizandra, Rehmannia, Gotu kola, Licorice and Rhodiola
- Alternatively, take a tonic providing 1g of withania per day, along with other herbs that support the health and vitality of the whole body
Cautions
- Consult your medical practitioner prior to taking herbs during pregnancy and breastfeeding
