Abstract

ASHWAGANDHA: NATURE”S BOON FOR A HEALTHY LIFE

Dr. Shrawan Kumar Sahu*, Dr. Ashok Kumar Sinha and Dr. Rahul Ghuse

Abstract

Attitude, behavior, concentration, dedication and enthusiasm are very much necessary for the continuation and successful completion of any task. Owing to day by day decline of these qualities, masses are in search of a safe agent which can help them in leading happy lives through accomplishment of their works smoothly. Ashwagandha is very much capable of meeting this demand of the people. It is classified as a Rasayana (rejuvenation-medicine) and accepted to increase longevity and vitality. The drug is reported with antiinflammatory, anti-arthritic, caridioprotective, anti-stress, tranquillizerlike sedative activity, hypoglycemic, thyroprotective activity and proved to be an effective remedy in the malignant growth of different organs. Although many articles have been published on this wonderful drug, the holistic approach has not been addressed till date. This article is for serving that very purpose. The review includes various activities of Ashwagandha in experimental models along with clinical evaluation of the drug in various dosage forms. Thorough review of various books, scientific research journals, theses, articles etc. available on Ashwagandha along with internet was performed to bring about the article in present form. The classical literatures in Ayurveda, Unani & Allopathy on this natural gift were studied at fundamental level, interpreted and analyzed logically and are presented in this detail research article.

Keywords: Ashwagandha, Rasayana, Ayurveda.