Ashwagandha: The Root with the Strength of a Horse
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a perennial herbaceous plant of the Solanaceae family. The name comes from the combination of the Sanskrit words "ashva" (horse) and "ganda" (smell). This association is explained not only by the characteristic aroma of the root, but also by the plant's ability to "grant the strength of a horse", that is, to increase endurance and energy tone. In the Western tradition, ashwagandha is often called "Indian ginseng" due to its tonic properties Ashwagandha is native to India, but it also grows in the Middle East and parts of Africa. Ashwagandha plays an important role in Ayurveda, with the roots being used primarily and the leaves less commonly. In ancient texts, it is mentioned as a rasayana, a rejuvenating and restorative remedy designed to strengthen the body and mind, increase resistance to stress, and promote concentration. The main active substances of ashwagandha are considered to be withanloids, which a...