Ashwagandha Benefits
Ashwagandha herb also known as Winter Cherry has several components that are anti-oxidants. Taking ashwagandha leads to a feeling of being refreshed and at the same time more energetic. No wonder it is popular among athletes. Ashwagandha is traditionally well known as an aphrodisiac and rejuvenative. Ashwagandha also is an anti-inflammatory and taken in conjunction with Boswellia herb has shown excellent results in cases of joint and arthritis pain.
New benefits of ashwagandha are being made known as a result of intensive research. Ashwagandha has been shown to be beneficial in cancer therapy and as a co-therapeutic agent in fighting HIV. Studies have also shown Ashwagandha's beneficial effects in Alzheimers and Parkinsons Disease. It has also been shown to be effective in fighting bacteria such as salmonella and as a fungicide.
Ashwagandha Side Effects and drug interactionsAshwagandha taken in the correct dosage produces no side effects. Since it is a relaxant and anti-depressant, it is advisable not to take it in conjunction with prescription anti-depressants, barbiturates and sedatives.
The Ashwagandha root is found to contain cuseohygrine, anahygrine, tropine, and anaferine. It also contains glycosides, withenolide with starches and amino acid. Ashwagandha is anti-inflammatory and relieves stress. As per Ayurveda, it has Ushan Virya potency which suppresses pain. As arthritis is associated with inflammation and stress, Ashwagandha has been found to be extremely beneficial in cases of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout and sciatica. Ashwagandha being an adaptogenic herb, regulates the immune, hormonal and nervous systems. 
