Ashwagandha is a shrub-like plant with Sanskrit for “smell of the horse,” referencing its characteristic smell and the energy and strength it has been observed to provide. In Latin, somnifera means “sleep-inducing.” It is a well-known adaptogen in Aruyvedic medicine for management of stress whose lineage as a medicinal herb dates back at least 3000 years. In addition to stress and sleep management, it has a high concentration of compounds that combat tumors and inflammation.
Ashwagandha carries many health benefits for helping bring the body back to homeostasis. It is well-tolerated without adverse side effects among study subjects even in high doses. Healthy individuals show increased muscle activity, higher quality of sleep, and even a lower percentage of body fat. Reduction of anxious symptoms has been observed, and seems to increase function in the mitochondria of cells for energy production without overstimulation. Its ability to regulate stress hormones help with anxiety and weight loss.
Ashwagandha supports the growth of dendrites that work to pass communication from one neuron to the next, assisting in overall brain communication and promising results for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s disease. It acts as an antiinflammatory and neuroprotective, helping to prevent and treat conditions of the central nervous system.
Ashwagandha has been considered a healthy alternative to antipsychotics for schizophrenia patients, as the drugs normally provided can induce metabolic syndrome as a result. Ashwagandha has shown to lessen psychotic episodes while regulating normal fat metabolism and blood glucose levels. With its ability to regulate metabolism, sleep, and hormones without dependency or adverse side effects, it is popular for women’s health and helping with recovery from stressful daily life.
Ashwagandha is found in Cymbiotika’s Rumi Herbal Sleep Tonic for its regulation of hormones that aid in going to sleep, and staying asleep for a good night’s rest. It helps calm the mind and body for a deeper state of relaxation, and more energy upon waking. Our goal is to replenish the body and restore the natural cycle of sleep, the most important factor contributing to overall health. Our Rumi formula works to help the body relax, balance the nutrients of the brain, and support a natural sleep cycle without sedation.
Exploratory study to evaluate tolerability, safety, and activity of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in healthy volunteers.
Effects of Withania somnifera in patients of schizophrenia: A randomized, double blind, placebo controlled pilot trial study
An Overview on Ashwagandha: A Rasayana (Rejuvenator) of Ayurveda