Ashwagandha - Ayurvedic Adaptogenic Tonic

Darrell Miller

06/06/05

Date: June 06, 2005 09:39 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Ashwagandha - Ayurvedic Adaptogenic Tonic

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is one of the most highly respected botanicals in the 5,000-year-old Ayurvedic herbal tradition of India. Classified as a rejuvenative tonic (“rasayana”) in the Ayurvedic system, it is widely used in modern Western herbalism as an adaptogen—a substance that can help our bodies healthfully adapt to physiological and psychological stress, thus increasing our resistance to stressors. Planetary Formulas ASHWAGANDHA Liquid Extract is prepared from premium ashwagandha root, organically grown and processed in accordance with the California Organic Foods Act of 1990.

A History of Traditional Use

Ashwagandha has been traditionally used throughout India for thousands of years as a rejuvenating tonic, and has been included in the writings of many Ayurvedic scholars. It was widely used to support vitality in people of all ages, including children, and to enhance reproductive function in both men and women. In one text it was stated that ashwagandha, taken with a liquid, promotes physical development and vigor “as rains do for younger crops.”

Adaptogenic Effects

In modern times, ashwagandha has been researched for its adaptogenic properties. Adaptogens are defined as substances that enhance general adaptive response. Research suggests their mechanism of action includes modulation of the pituitary-adrenal gland axis. Adaptogens increase resistance against external stressors, have a balancing effect and stabilize normal body functions. Ashwagandha has been shown to increase stress resistance, improve memory-related performance, and protect against stress-induced responses such as anxiety, and physiological imbalances, according to numerous animal studies and several human studies. Well-controlled clinical studies are needed to further confirm ashwagandha’s benefits for humans.

Biochemistry

The key constituents of ashwagandha are alkaloids and a group of steroidal lactones known as withanolides.

Clinically Derived Botanical from Michael Tierra

Planetary Formulas products are exclusively developed or selected by licensed acupuncturist and clinical herbalist Michael Tierra, L.Ac., O.M.D. A clinician for more than 30 years, Michael is an internationally recognized authority on the world’s herbal traditions. He was the first to introduce Ayurvedic products to the American health food industry in the early 1970’s. Michael has been using Planetary Formulas products on a daily basis in his clinical practice for more than 20 years. This means your customers can be assured of obtaining the benefits they are seeking from a herbal product.

Planetary Formulas: More Than Herbs—Herbalism!

References
American Herbal Pharmacopoeia™. Ashwagandha Root, Santa Cruz: April 2000.

--
VitaNet ®
VitaNet ® Staff

• Ashwaganda Liquid Herbal Extract - Lemon 1 fl oz

  
  
  
  
  
  

• Ashwaganda Liquid Herbal Extract - Winter Cherry 2 fl oz

  
  
  
  
  
  

• Full Spectrum Ashwaganda 60 tabs

  
  
  
  
  
  

• Full Spectrum Ashwaganda 120 tabs