Ashwagandha, Winter Cherry, Withania somnifera; Solanaceae
Ashwagandha, that which has the smell of a horse, as it gives the vitality
and sexual energy of a horse.
Part Used: root
Energetics: bitter, astringent, sweet/heating/sweet VK- P and Ama + (in excess)
Tissues: muscle, fat, bone, marrow and nerve, reproductive
Systems: reproductive,
nervous, respiratory
Actions: tonic, rejuvenative, aphrodisiac, nervine, sedative, astringent
Indications: general debility, sexual debility, nerve exhaustion, convalesence, problems
of old age, emaciation of children, loss of memory, loss of muscular energy, spermatorrhea, overwork,
tissue deficiency, insomnia, paralysis, multiple sclerosis, weak eyes, rheumatism, skin afflictions,
cough, difficult breathing, anemia, fatigue, infertility, glandular swelling
Precautions: high Ama, severe congestion
Preparation: decoction, milk decoction, powder (250 mg to 1 g), paste, medicated
ghee, medicated oil
ASHWAGANDHA holds a place in the Ayurvedic pharmacology similar to ginseng in Chinese medicine,
yet it is far less expensive. It is the best rejuvenative herb, particularly for the muscles,
marrow and semen and for Vata constitution. It is used in all conditions of weakness and tissue
deficiency in children, the elderly, those debilitated by chronic diseases, those suffering from
overwork, lack of sleep or nervous exhaustion.
For such regenerative purposes, it can be taken as a milk decoction to which may be added raw sugar,
honey, pippai and basmati rice. As such, it inhibits aging and catalyzes the anabolic processes of
the body. Sattvic in quality, it is one of the best herbs for the mind upon which it is nurturing
and clarifying. It is calming and promotes deep, dreamless sleep.
Ashwagandha is a good food for weak pregnant women; it helps to stabilize the fetus. It also
regenerates the hormonal system, promotes healing of tissues, and can be used externally on wounds,
sores, etc. Five grams of the powder can be taken twice a day in warm milk or water, sweetened with
raw sugar.
This is brought to you by The Yoga of Herbs
For the first time, here is a detailed explanation and classification of herbs,using the ancient
system of Ayurveda. More than 270 herbs are listed, with 108 herbs explained in detail. Included
are many of the most commonly used western herbs with a profound Ayurvedic perspective. Important
Chinese and special Ayurvedic herbs are introduced. Beautiful diagrams and charts, as well as detailed
glossaries, appendices and index are included.
More from The Yoga of Herbs:
THE THREE DOSHAS
Determining Individual Constitution
Individual constitution is acquired at birth and remains constant through life. While there are
three general types according to the predominant Dosha, combinations and variations also exist.
For example, two Doshas may exist in equal strengths. The following indications are not to create
stereotypes but to just show typical conditions and tendencies towards excess.
VATA
People of Vata constitution tend to be physically underdeveloped. Their chests are flat and their
veins and muscle tendons are visible. Their complexion is tinged brown, while the skin may be cold,
rough, dry or cracked. There usually are a few moles present and these tend to be dark.
Vata people, in general, are either tall or short, with thin frames that reveal prominent joints due
to low muscle development. The hair is most often curly and scanty, with thin eyelashes. The eyes may
be small, active, perhaps sunken or lacking in lustre and the conjunctiva is dry and somewhat dark.
The nails may be brittle or rough; the nose bent or up-turned.
Physiologically, the appetite and digestion are variable. Sometimes they may be able to consume a
large meal with ease, other times they may have no appetite at all. They prefer hot drinks. The
production of urine tends to be scanty and the feces are dry, hard, or small in quantity, with a
tendency towards constipation. They seldom perspire much. Their sleep may be light, disturbed, or
short in duration. Their hands and feet are often cold.
Such individuals are usually creative, active, alert and restless. They talk fast, move and walk
quickly but may be easily fatigued or tired.
Psychologically, they are characterized by quick mental understanding, but they are often possessed
of a short memory, and can be absentminded. They adjust easily to change but may become indecisive
or impatient. They usually need to develop endurance, confidence and boldness. They may think and
worry too much, are often nervous, and it is fear and anxiety that most afflict them.
PITTA
Pitta constitution people are usually of medium height, with moderate weight, frame, and muscle
development. Their chests are not as flat as Vata people, and they show a moderate number of veins
and muscle tendons. They may have many moles or freckles, which are bluish or brownish-red. The
bones are not as prominent as in Vata types.
Pitta complexion may be coppery, yellowish, reddish or fair. The skin is soft, warm and less
wrinkled than Vata skin. It possesses good color and may be flushed. The hair is thin, silky,
red or brownish and there is a tendency towards early graying or baldness. The eyes may be grey,
green or copper-brown. The eyeballs are usually of medium prominence with vision often being poor.
The conjunctiva is usually moist and coppercolored, the nails soft; the shape of the nose is sharp
and the tip may be reddish.
Physiologically, Pitta people possess a strong metabolism, good digestion, and strong appetite.
They usually ingest large quantities of food and liquid, and they enjoy cold drinks. Their sleep
is of moderate yet uninterrupted duration and the feces are also yellowish, soft and plentiful.
They usually perspire a lot. The body temperature is high and the hands and feet are usually warm.
They are not easily tolerant of heat or sunlight.
Psychologically, Pitta people have good powers of comprehension, they are intelligent and sharp,
and can be good orators. They have emotional tendencies of anger, jealousy, perhaps hatred. They
are often ambitious and like to be leaders.
KAPHA
Kapha individuals usually have well-developed bodies. However, they tend to carry excess weight.
Their chests are expanded and broad; veins and tendons are not obvious because of the thickness of
their skin. Their muscle development is good and their bones are not prominent.
Kapha complexion is most often fair, white or pale. Skin tends to be soft, oily, moist, and cold.
Hair is thick, dark, soft and wavy. Their eyes are dense, black or blue in color; the white of the
eye is usually pronounced, large and attractive. The conjunctiva is seldom reddish.
Physiologically, Kapha people have low but regular appetites; their digestion functions slowly, and
they usually take less food than other types. They tend to move slowly. Their stools are generally
soft and may be pale in color, with slow evacuation. Their perspiration is moderate. Sleep is sound,
prolonged, or excessive. They generally have strong endurance and good stamina, and are often healthy
and contented.
Psychologically, they tend to be tolerant, calm, forgiving, loving. On the negative side, they are
prone to traits of greed, attachment, envy and possessiveness. Their comprehension is slow, yet
definitive. Though it takes them time to understand something, their knowledge is retained.
