Ashwagandha (Withnia somnifera) is an erect shrub. The principle constituents of its roots are the alkaloids somnine, somniferine, withanine, tropine, pseudotropine and anaferine. It is used in asthma and as a uterine sedative. Its alkaloids have shown relaxant and antispasmodic effects against several spasmogens in intestinal, uterine, bronchial, tracheal and blood vascular muscles.
Anti-stress activity was assessed in experimental models of stress. It increased physiological endurance, protected animals from stress ulcers and CCl4 induced hepatotoxicity supported its use as tonic and vitalizer. Ashwagandha is recommended for clinical use in the prevention and treatment of many stress related diseases like arteriosclerosis, premature aging, arthritis, diabetes, hypertension and malignancy.
