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Scientific Studies About Ashwagandha In Treating Arthritis

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Arthritis: Arthritis is the inflammation of one or more joints. It means that the joint is painful, and there is swelling, stiffness, redness, possible deformity and/or a lack of ability to have the full use of the affected joint.  Numerous forms of arthritis exist, but the most common two are osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. These conditions can effect the body's movable joints in the knees, wrists, elbows, fingers, toes, hips, and shoulders as well as the bones of the spine on the neck and back. The Indian herb Ashwagandha has been shown to be effective in reducing the pain of arthritis. What is arthritis?  A joint is where two bones come together. Their surfaces are covered with a layer of smooth, rubbery, blue-white tissue called cartilage. A fluid-filled capsule made up of a tough, fibrous tissue called ligaments surrounds these bones and cartilage. Thanks to this liquid and the cartilage that covers then end of these bones, the bones within the joint normally glide smoothly past one another. If anything goes wrong with any of these parts of a joint, arthritis can result. The swelling and deformity that takes place in arthritic joints can result from the thickening of the membrane, the fluid, enlargement of the bones, or some combination of these factors.  Osteoarthritis is caused when the cartilage that lines the surface of the joints wears away. And you're left with worn surfaces. As a result the joints become stiff and painful. The joints make popping, clinking and banging noises.  Rheumatoid arthritis involves inflammation and swelling of the joints rather than a wearing away of the cartilage. It is an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system reacts against itself and the fluid that lubricates the joints become inflamed. The cartilage and tissues in and around the joints are damaged or destroyed. Often the bones are destroyed as well. The body replaces this damaged tissue with scar tissue, causing the normal spaces within the joints to become narrow and the bones to fuse together. Rheumatoid arthritis affects all the body's joints. Joints affected make noises like crinkling cellophane. Gout, is an example of an acute form of inflammatory arthritis. Acute means something that comes on suddenly and is of limited duration. Deposits of crystallized uric acid form in the joint causing swelling, redness and a sensation of heat and extreme pain. It usually affects the big toe, but other joints may be affected as well.  Other forms of arthritis are spondyloarthropathies, including psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, Reiter's syndrome (a group of disorders that tend to affect the spine), systemic lupus, juvenile rheurmatoid arthritis, infectious arthritis, and kawasaki syndrome. Arthritis can also be caused by bacterial, viral or fungal infection of a joint.  Usually the infecting organism travels to the joint through the blood stream from an infection elsewhere in the body, but injury or even surgery can result in joint infection as well.  Symptoms not only include the pain and tenderness effecting the joint, but also include symptoms of systemic infections such as fever, chills and body aches. Standard Treatment: Most physicians feel that there is no cure for arthritis and thus most of the treatment focuses on reducing the symptoms. The most frequent conventional treatment involves the use of a drug called a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These medications help reduce the inflammation and pain associated with arthritis. They alleviate the symptoms. However, some medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen create stomach inflammation and have other significant side effects. They can cause stomach ulcers, bleeding in the digestive tract, liver damage, or kidney impairment - especially in the elderly population. Also by irritating and inflaming the lining of the gastrointestinal tract, they may make your intestines more permeable to food allergens and different bacteria.  Aspirin is an old standby used in the treatment of arthritis. In fact, Aspirin was created over 100 years ago primarily as a treatment for arthritis.  It is recognized as one of the least expensive and most effective medications for the treatment of many forms of arthritis.  It works well as an anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving substance, but it too is associated with gastrointestinal problems.  (See our  Aspirin article if you chose to take aspirin, as it does deplete your body of some nutrients). Foods to eat and not eat:  Avoid foods you are allergic to. (For figuring out what they are see our Food Allergy article) Optimize your intake of fresh fruit, vegetables, whole grains and fiber-containing beans. Switching to a vegetarian-like diet may help reduce morning stiffness, joint pain, and swollen joints.  Things to do that will help you manage:  Ideas to help you overcome daily challenges when the pain is  difficult to bear:  1) Whether in the workshop or in the kitchen, use tools with larger, easier to grip handles, preferably with non-slip handles. Even cooking utensils (including forks, knives, and spoons) can be purchased with larger handles for easier control. 2) Convert door knobs and kitchen & bathroom taps so that they use levers instead of harder to grip round knobs. 3) Use raised seats, they're easier to get up from and put  less strain on knee joints. 4) Instead of using your fingers, use the palms, forearms or elbows. Close plastic containers with your elbow. 5) Place a strap on refrigerator doors and cupboards. To open,  place your forearm through the strap and pull. 6) To wash dishes use a scrubber that fits over your hand and keeps your fingers straight. 7) Use your hip to close kitchen drawers.  8) Carry your purse on your forearm or use a shoulder bag to  avoid putting the strain on your hand. 9) Use splints or wraps that support wrist, thumbs, and fingers. 10) Use pipe insulation or buy rubber "grips" to put around  pens or spoons for easier grip. Exercise:  If your joints are swollen and painful, you're probably not going to be in the mood for exercise, but physical activity can help prevent the swelling, stiffness and pain in the joints. Remember to stretch especially before exercise. Regular walking, stretching, and weight lifting can reduce knee joint pain and improve the range of motion.  Get in the habit of walking, swimming, cycling and stretching at least three days per week for 30 minutes per session. If you notice you're too stiff in the morning, do your exercise later in the afternoon. Stretch before you go to sleep. Get involved in either Tai Chi or yoga, both of which are wonderful for your joints. If you have arthritis in your hands or wrists, buy a sponge ball or putty to exercise your fingers. You may want to soak your hands in warm water after getting up in the morning.  Massage Therapy is one of the oldest forms of pain management  for arthritis. The amount of pressure that is applied can be  adjusted depending on the level of pain. Avoid massaging  directly on top of an inflamed joint as this may be too painful  for the area. For best results massage just above and just below  the joint. Blending essential oils like eucalyptus, lavender,  peppermint, rosewood, and wintergreen with a sweet almond  oil carrier will make a welcome addition to your massage.  Natural Arthritis Treatments:  There are many different vitamins, herbs and other products that have been known to help arthritis. Some may work for you. Each person is different and taking recommended vitamins are important, but there are herbs that might also help. We've made a long list of all the different substances that have been known to relieve arthritis. You may have to try different things before you found one that is right for you. Nutritional Supplements: There are nutritional supplements that the body needs if one has arthritis.  Below is a list of the vitamins that should be taken to handle your body's nutritional needs. Because arthritis increases the amount of free radicals produced in your body (which can then damage your joints and other tissues), antioxidants should be an important part of the arthritis treatment. (For more information see article Free Radicals and Antioxidants). Boosting your intake of Vitamin E has been found to reduce pain. Selenium enhances its effectiveness. Selenium has an antioxidant effect of its own and has been found to be low in many people with arthritis. Pantothenic acid, B5, has been found to be deficient in people with arthritis. Taking it daily may provide marked improvement in morning stiffness and it reduces the pain. Vitamin C is helpful in the formation of collagen. Vitamin C has an anti-inflammatory effect, can gobble up those free radicals and might encourage the growth of new cartilage. It also works together with vitamin E to protect cartilage from breaking down. Niacinamide, B3, has been useful in reducing symptoms. It is particularly helpful in relieving joint swelling and pain, as well as improving muscle strength, mobility and range of motion. It is thought to improve the metabolism of cartilage. Vitamin D, in a study performed by Tuft's University Medical schools it found that people with the highest levels of vitamin D intake had the smallest amount of disease progression over an eight year period. Conversely, those with the lowest intake of vitamin D were the most likely to develop serious osteoarthritis.  Omega 3 oils are of great value in reducing the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Omega 3 oil is also known as linolenic acid, it can reduce the swelling, stiffness and inflammation typical of arthritis. This can be gotten from such supplements as Emu Oil from Australia (the emu is a close relative of the ostrich), hemp oil, borage oil and flaxseed oil. Omega 3 oils are essential to good health and should be taken by everyone (see article Essential Fatty Acids) Herbs and other Remedies: Below we've listed remedies that have been known to relieve arthritis symptoms. One of the promising herbs is curcumin.  Glucosamine sulfate is an essential component of cartilage and can help reduce the pain associated with arthritis. Most people find that it takes at least 8 weeks before its beneficial effects kick in. Chrondroitin sulfate is another component of cartilage. These two work together to improve the symptoms of arthritis. There is also a product called Glucosamine Plus formula that has glucosamine, MSM and MM-4 all known to help arthritis.  Devil's Claw has been used in Africa and German medical clinics because of its anti-inflammatory properties. Although it is used for numerous health conditions, Devil's Claw has been particularly helpful in dealing with arthritis and other inflammatory related diseases. One caution, however, Devil's Claw does encourage gastric secretions and should not be used by someone with gastric ulcers. Yucca has been used for hundreds of years to treat the pain and inflammation of various forms of arthritis.  Primrose or salmon oil can also help control arthritis pain and inflammation.  .  Ashwagandha (withania somnifera): also known as Indian Ginseng, has been known to help reduce the discomfort associated with arthritis Bovine tracheal cartilage: has been known to be an effective treatment. It can lessen the pain and inflammation typical of arthritis. If bovine tracheal cartilage does not work try using it in combination with shark cartilage.  Cetyl Myristoleate has been known to relieve the symptoms of arthritis. Each brand of CM has its own treatment dosages. The treatment may be repeated several times a year as needed. CM is most effective for people who avoid alcohol, beverages and a high-sugar diet.  Cordyceps is an ancient Chinese herb that besides increasing stamina has also been known to help arthritis.  Ceglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL) is a favorite herb among Asian healers and is highly regarded as a treatment for arthritis.  HMP-33 - a standardized ginger extract used successfully in Europe to treat Osteo and rheumatoid arthritis. HMP-33 blocks the inflammatory process by blocking the formation of substances involved with these processes.  Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) which is found in plants, meat, eggs, poultry and dairy foods which is effective against allergy symptoms and treatment for arthritis when it is caused by the wearing away of cartilage.  Sea cucumber has been known to reduce the pain and stiffness associated with arthritic diseases, bursitis and other problems of the bones and joints.  Capsaicin Cream is used externally and is derived from the active ingredient in hot chili peppers. It is a favorite remedy for joint pain. Supplements that the body needs: Vitamin E: A dose of 600 IU twice a day. Selenium: 100 to 200 mcg along with the E as it enhances its effectiveness.  Pantothenic acid (B5): 250 mg to 500 mg. per day. Niacinamide (B3):  Vitamin C Vitamin D: Take 400 IU daily. Do not exceed the recommended dosage. Omega Oils: As a capsule - two tablets 3 times a day. With Omega oils, there are many different needs and you should read the Article Essential Fatty Acids.    For more info on nutritional handling of Arthritis Also known to help: Curcumin: 400 mg three times a day. Glucosamine: 500 mg three times a day. Must be taken with chrondroitin. Chrondroitin sulfate: 250 mg three times a day. Should be taken with Glucosamine. Ashwagandha (withania somnifera): Take three 4.5 mg standardized tablets daily. Bovine Tracheal: Take three 705 mg. capsules daily. If bovine tracheal cartilage does not work try using it in combination with 500 mg of shark cartilage.  Cetyl Myristoleate:. Each brand of CM has its own treatment dosages. The usual dose is three to five capsules daily for up to one month. The treatment may be repeated several times a year.  Cordyceps: Take two 525 mg capsules daily with meals. Ceglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL)  HMP-33 - a standardized ginger extract Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) Take two 100 mg tablets daily with food.  Devil's Claw:  Yucca  Primrose or salmon oil Sea cucumber: Take up to six 600 mg capsules daily with meals.  Capsaicin Cream

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Scientific basis for the therapeutic use of Withania somnifera (ashwagandha): a review.

Mishra LC, Singh BB, Dagenais S.

Los Angeles College of Chiropractic (LACC), 16200 E Amber Valley Dr., Whittier, CA 90609-1166. lakshmimishra@lacc.edu

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this paper is to review the literature regarding Withania somnifera (ashwagandha, WS) a commonly used herb in Ayurvedic medicine. Specifically, the literature was reviewed for articles pertaining to chemical properties, therapeutic benefits, and toxicity.

DESIGN: This review is in a narrative format and consists of all publications relevant to ashwagandha that were identified by the authors through a systematic search of major computerized medical databases; no statistical pooling of results or evaluation of the quality of the studies was performed due to the widely different methods employed by each study.

RESULTS: Studies indicate ashwagandha possesses anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antistress, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, hemopoietic, and rejuvenating properties. It also appears to exert a positive influence on the endocrine, cardiopulmonary, and central nervous systems.

The mechanisms of action for these properties are not fully understood.

Toxicity studies reveal that ashwagandha appears to be a safe compound.

CONCLUSION: Preliminary studies have found various constituents of ashwagandha exhibit a variety of therapeutic effects with little or no associated toxicity. These results are very encouraging and indicate this herb should be studied more extensively to confirm these results and reveal other potential therapeutic effects. Clinical trials using ashwagandha for a variety of conditions should also be conducted.

Publication Types:

• Review
• Review, Tutorial

PMID: 10956379 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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Treatment of osteoarthritis with a herbomineral formulation: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study.

Kulkarni RR, Patki PS, Jog VP, Gandage SG, Patwardhan B.

Bryamjee Jeejeebhoy Medical College, University of Poona, Pune, India.

The clinical efficacy of a herbomineral formulation containing roots of Withania somnifera, the stem of Boswellia serrata, rhizomes of Curcuma longa and a zinc complex (Articulin-F), was evaluated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled, cross-over study in patients with osteoarthritis.

After a one-month single blind run-in period, 42 patients with osteoarthritis were randomly allocated to receive either a drug treatment or a matching placebo for a period of three months.

After a 15-day wash-out period the patients were transferred to the other treatment for a further period of three months.

Clinical efficacy was evaluated every fortnight on the basis of severity of pain, morning stiffness, Ritchie articular index, joint score, disability score and grip strength.

Other parameters like erythrocyte sedimentation rate and radiological examination were carried out on a monthly basis.

Treatment with the herbomineral formulation produced a significant drop in severity of pain (P less than 0.001) and disability score (P less than 0.05). Radiological assessment, however, did not show any significant changes in both the groups. Side effects observed with this formulation did not necessitate withdrawal of treatment.

Publication Types:

• Clinical Trial
• Randomized Controlled Trial

PMID: 1943180 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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SANSKRIT NAME: Ashvagandha, "smelling like a horse"
Botanical Name: Withania somnifera, Solanaceae
Common Name: Asgandh (H), Amukkira (T), Winter Cherry (E)

Part Used: root, leaves, fruit

Dravyguna: root.
·Rasa: tikta, kashaya
·Vipaka: katu
·Virya: ushna
·Karma: Vatapittahara, Kaphakopa, balyam, vajikarana, tonic, adaptogen, relaxing nervine, post-partum tonic, immunomodulant, astringent, galactagogue, diuretic, thermogenic (Dash 1991, 59; Dash and Junius 1983, 155; Frawley and Lad 1986, 160; Varier 1996, 409)

Indications:
·Root: asthma, bronchitis, edema, leucoderma, anorexia, consumption, asthenia, anemia, exhaustion, aging, insomnia, ADD/ADHD, neurasthenia, infertility, impotence, repeated miscarriage, paralysis, memory loss, multiple sclerosis, immune-dysfunction, carcinoma, rheumatism, arthritis, lumbago (Dash 1991 59; Dash and Junius 1987, 155; Kirtikar and Basu 1993, 1775-76; Frawley and Lad 1986, 160; Nadkarni 1976, 1293-94; Varier 1996, 409)
·Leaves: used internally for fever and hemorrhoids; externally for wounds, hemorrhoids, tumors, tuberculous glands, anthrax pustules, syphylitic sores, erysipelas, and in ophthalmitis (Kirtikar and Basu 1993 1775-76; Varier 1996, 409)
·Fruit: used externally in ringworm (Kirtikar and Basu 1993 1775-76)

Contraindications: Caution should be used with clients on anticonvulsants, barbituates and benzodiazepines. Ashvagandha is traditionally avoided in lymphatic congestion, during colds and flu, or symptoms of ama (Frawley and Lad 1986, 160).

Toxicity: None reported (Aphale et al 1998).

Dosage: root
·Churna: 3 ­ 5 g b.i.d. - t.i.d.
·Kashaya: 100 mL t.i.d.
·Tincture: fresh root, 95%, 1:2; dried root, 50%, 1:4; 1 ­ 10 mL t.i.d.

Pharmacology:
·Adaptogen: The traditional use of Ashvagandha as a rasayana [definition] has been validated by scientific investigation. Wistar rats treated with an extract of Withania somnifera showed better stress tolerance in cold water swimming tests (Archana and Namasivayam 1999).

·Antiinflammatory: A methanolic extract of the aerial parts of Withania somnifera had antiinflammatory activities comparable to that of hydrocortisone sodium succinate (al-Hindawi et al 1992). An 80% ethanolic extract of Withania somnifera displayed significant antiinflammatory activity on carrageenan-induced paw edema (al-Hindawi 1989).

·Antioxidant: An aqueous suspension of root extract of Ashvagandha prevented the rise of experimentally induced lipid peroxidation in rabbits and mice (Dhuley 1998a). An extract of Withania somnifera, consisting of equimolar concentrations of sitoindosides VII-X and withaferin A, induced an increase in the levels of superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase in rat brain, consistent with other research that reports an antioxidant, immunomodulant and antiinflammatory activity (Bhattacharya et al 1997).

·Cancer: The administration of Ashvagandha rasayana (an Ayurvedic polyherbal formulation containing Ashvagandha) significantly reduced the lung tumor nodule formation by 55.6% in experimental animals (Menon et al. 1997). An alcoholic extract of the dried roots as well as withaferin A isolated from the extract showed significant antitumor and radiosensitizing effects in experimental tumors in Chinese hamster cells, without any noticeable systemic toxicity (Devi 1996). The steroidal lactone withaferin A displayed significant antitumor and radiosensitizing effects, inhibiting tumor growth and increasing survival in Swiss mice inoculated with Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (Devi et al 1995; Sharad et al 1996). The administration of an extract of Withania somnifera was found to significantly reduce leucopenia induced by cyclophosphamide treated experimental animals, indicating its usefulness in cancer therapy (Davis and Kuttan 1998). The administration of methanolic extract of Ashvagandha was found to significantly increase the WBC count in normal Balb/c mice and reduce leucopenia induced by a sublethal dose of gamma radiation. Withania increased bone marrow cellularity and normalised the ratio of normochromatic erythrocytes and polychromatic erythrocytes. This observed activity was thought to be due to stem cell proliferation (Kuttan 1996).

·Central Nervous system: Isolated constituents of Withania somnifera (sitoindosides VII-X and withaferin-A) increased cortical muscarinic acetylcholine receptor capacity, partly explaining the cognition-enhancing and memory-improving effects traditionally attributed to Ashvagandha (Schliebs et al 1997). A methanolic extract of Withania somnifera inhibited the specific binding of [3H]GABA and [35S]TBPS, and enhanced the binding of [3H]flunitrazepam to their putative receptor sites, suggesting a GABA-mimetic activity (Mehta et al 1991). A commercial root extract of Withania somnifera used repeatedly over 9 days attenuated the development of tolerance to the analgesic effect of morphine and suppressed morphine-withdrawal jumps (Kulkarni and Ninan 1997).

·Immunity: Myelosuppressed mice treated with an extract of Ashvagandha displayed a significant increase in hemoglobin concentration, red blood cell count, white blood cell count, platelet count and body weight as compared to controls, as well as increased hemolytic antibody responses towards human erythrocytes (Ziauddin et al 1996). Researchers at the Amala Cancer Research Centre in Kerala, India, found that the administration of an extract from the powdered root of Withania somnifera enhanced the levels of interferon gamma, interleukin-2 and granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor in normal and cyclophosphamide-treated mice, suggesting an immunopotentiating and myeloprotective effect (Davis and Kuttan 1999). Mice infected intravenously with Aspergillus fumigatus and treated for 7 consecutive days with an oral preparation of an extract of Withania somnifera at a dose of 100mg/kg displayed increased phagocytic activity and prolonged survival time (Dhuley 1998). The antifungal activity of Withania has been confirmed elsewhere, attributed to the withanolides (Choudhary et al 1995).

·Musculo-skeletal: A herbomineral formulation containing roots of Withania somnifera, the stem of Boswellia serrata, rhizomes of Curcuma longa and a zinc complex (Articulin-F), was evaluated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled, cross-over study in clients with osteoarthritis. The results produced a significant drop in severity of pain and disability, although radiological assessment did not show any significant changes. Sideeffects were minimal and did not necessitate the withdrawal of treatment. (Kulkarni et al 1991)

Comments:
Ashvagandha is the Indian equivalent to Ginseng (Panax ginseng), but unlike Ginseng, Ashvagandha has a sedative rather than stimulant action on the central nervous system, making it a superior medicine for exhaustion with nervous irritability. A rejuvenating preparation can be made by mixing Ashvagandha with 10-15% Pippali, taken with one half part ghrita and 1 part honey on an empty stomach, morning and evening. Ashvagandha is a useful nervine, taken before bed to relax and nourish the body in deficiency diseases, but is only seen to be efficacious when taken on a sustained basis- it is not a sufficient sedative to treat acute insomnia. For poor memory, lack of concentration and in the treatment of ADD/ADHD Ashvagandha may be used in equal proportions with Mandukaparni and Ling zhi (Ganoderma lucidum). Ashvagandha is widely used in any debility, emaciation or consumptive condition, in both adults and children (Kirtikar and Basu 1993, 1775; Nadkarni 1976, 1294).

Ashvagandha may be used by men as sexual tonic in the treatment of spermatopathia, impotence and "seminal depletion" (Nadkarni 1976, 1293). When mixed with equal parts Shatavari, it is an appropriate treatment for female infertility and frigidity and is useful in threatened miscarriage.

For poor eyesight Ashvagandha powder is mixed with equal proportions of Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra root) powder and the fresh juice of Amalaki (Emblica officinalis fruit) (Nadkarni, 1294). An infusion of the leaves may be used in in the treatment of ophthalmia (Kirtikar and Basu 1993, 1776).

In the form of Narayana taila, Ashvagandha may be taken internally, 3 ­ 10 gtt. b.i.d. for consumption and emaciation in children, and as an enema for anal fistula (Nadkarni 1976, 1294). Narayana taila may also be taken as nasya (2-3 gtt.) in cases of hearing loss and in abhyanga in cases of paralysis, tetanus, rheumatism and lumbago (Nadkarni 1976, 1294).

Nadkarni mentions that Ashvagandha is used in the treatment of antiinflammatory joint disease (1976, 1293), but as Lad and Frawley suggest, Ashvagandha can facilitate the production of ama (1986, 160), and thus an eliminative regimen is best utilized prior to using this botanical. Likewise, Ashvagandha is an appropriate remedy in the treatment of asthma and bronchitis (Kirtikar and Basu 1993, 1775-6), but should be used concurrently with dravyas that have a dipana-pachana property to avoid the production of ama.

Varrier mentions that a paste made of the roots and bruised leaves may be applied to carbuncles, ulcers and painful swellings (1996, 409).

References:
al-Hindawi, M.K., I.H. Al-Deen, M.H. Nabi, and M.H. Ismail. 1989. Anti-inflammatory activity of some Iraqi plants using intact rats. J Ethnopharmacol. Sep; 26(2):163-8
Aphale A.A., A.D. Chhibba, N.R. Kumbhakarna, M. Mateenuddin and S.H. Dahat. 1998. Subacute toxicity study of the combination of ginseng (Panax ginseng) and ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in rats: a safety assessment. Indian J Physiol Pharmacol Apr; 42(2):299-302
Archana, R. and A. Namasivayam. 1999. Antistressor effect of Withania somnifera. J Ethnopharmacol. Jan; 64(1):91-3
Bhattacharya, S.K., K.S. Satyan and S. Ghosal. 1997. Antioxidant activity of glycowithanolides from Withania somnifera. Indian J Exp Biol. Mar; 35(3):236-9
Choudhary, M.I., Dur-e-Shahwar, Z. Parveen, A. Jabbar , I. Ali, Atta-ur-Rahman. 1995. Antifungal steroidal lactones from Withania coagulance. Phytochemistry Nov; 40(4):1243-6
Dash, Bhagwan. 1991. Materia Medica of Ayurveda. New Delhi: B. Jain Publishers.
----------- and Manfred Junius. 1983. A Handbook of Ayurveda. New Delhi: Concept Publishing.
Davis, L. and G. Kuttan. 1999. Effect of Withania somnifera on cytokine production in normal and cyclophosphamide treated mice. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol Nov; 21(4):695-703
Davis L. and G. Kuttan. 1998. Suppressive effect of cyclophosphamide-induced toxicity by Withania somnifera extract in mice. J Ethnopharmacol. Oct; 62(3):209-14
Devi, P.U. 1996. Withania somnifera Dunal (Ashwagandha): potential plant source of a promising drug for cancer chemotherapy and radiosensitization. Indian J Exp Biol. Oct; 34(10):927-32
Devi, P.U., A.C. Sharada, and F.E. Solomon. 1995. In vivo growth inhibitory and radiosensitizing effects of withaferin A on mouse Ehrlich ascites carcinoma. Cancer Lett. Aug 16; 95(1-2):189-93
Dhuley, J.N. 1998a. Effect of Ashwagandha on lipid peroxidation in stress-induced animals. J Ethnopharmacol. Mar; 60(2):173-8
Dhuley, J.N. 1998b. Therapeutic efficacy of Ashwagandha against experimental aspergillosis in mice. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol. Feb; 20(1):191-8
Frawley, David and Vasant Lad. 1986. The Yoga Of Herbs: An Ayurvedic Guide to Herbal Medicine. Santa Fe: Lotus Press.
Kirtikar KR and BD Basu. 1993. Indian Medicinal Plants. 2nd ed. Vol. 1-4. 1935. Reprint. Delhi: Periodical Experts.
Kulkarni, S.K. and I. Ninan. 1997. Inhibition of morphine tolerance and dependence by Withania somnifera in mice. J Ethnopharmacol. Aug; 57(3):213-7
Kulkarni, R.R., P.S. Patki, V.P. Jog, S.G. Gandage and B. Patwardhan. 1991. Treatment of osteoarthritis with a herbomineral formulation: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study. J Ethnopharmacol. May-Jun; 33(1-2):91-5
Kuttan, G. 1996. Use of Withania somnifera Dunal as an adjuvant during radiation therapy. Indian J Exp Biol. Sep; 34(9):854-6
Mehta, A.K., P. Binkley, S.S. Gandhi, and M.K. Ticku. 1991. Pharmacological effects of Withania somnifera root extract on GABAA receptor complex. Indian J Med Res. Aug; 94:312-5
Menon L.G., R. Kuttan, and G. Kuttan. 1997. Effect of rasayanas in the inhibition of lung metastasis induced by B16F-10 melanoma cells. J Exp Clin Cancer Res. Dec; 16(4):365-8
Nadkarni, Dr. K.M. 1976. The Indian Materia Medica, with Ayurvedic, Unani and Home Remedies. Revised and enlarged by A.K. Nadkarni. 1954. Reprint. Bombay: Bombay Popular Prakashan PVP.
Schliebs, R., A. Liebmann , S.K. Bhattacharya, A. Kumar, S. Ghosal, and V. Bigl. 1997. Systemic administration of defined extracts from Withania somnifera (Indian Ginseng) and Shilajit differentially affects cholinergic but not glutamatergic and GABAergic markers in rat brain. Neurochem Int. Feb; 30(2):181-90
Sharad, A.C., F.E. Solomon, P.U. Devi, N. Udupa, and K.K. Srinivasan. 1996. Antitumor and radiosensitizing effects of withaferin A on mouse Ehrlich ascites carcinoma in vivo. Acta Oncol. 35(1):95-100
Varrier, P.S. 1996. Indian Medicinal Plants: A Compendium of 500 species. Edited by PK Warrier, VPK Nambiar and C Ramankutty. vol 5. Hyderabad: Orient Longman.
Ziauddin, M., N. Phansalkar, P. Patki , S. Diwanay, B. Patwardhan. 1996. Studies on the immunomodulatory effects of Ashwagandha. J Ethnopharmacol. Feb; 50(2):69-76

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Ayurvedic Treatment

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Ashwagandha - Withania Somnifera

Withaferin Ashowed marked tumour-inhibitory activity when tested in vitroagainst cells derived from human carcinoma of nasopharynx (KB).  It also acted as a mitotic poison arresting the division of cultured humanlarynx carcinoma cells at metaphase and in HeLa cultures similar to star -metaphase. It also produced significant retardation of the growth of Ehrlich ascites carcinoma, Sarcoma 180, Sarcoma Black (SBL), and E 0771 mammary adenocarcinoma in mice in doses of 10, 12, 15 mg./kg. body-wt. Growth of Ehrlich ascites carcinoma was completely inhibited in more than half the mice which survived for 100 days without the evidence of growth of the tumour. Withaferin A caused mitotic arrest in embryonal chicken fibroblast cells. Methylthiodeacetyl colchicine potentiated the effect of withaferin A.  The presence of an unsaturated lactone in the side-chain to which an allylic primary alcohol group is attached at C25 and the highly oxygenated rings at the other end of the molecule may well suggest specific chemical systems possessing carcinostatic properties (Kupchan et al., J. Amer. chem. Soc.,1965, 87, 5805; Shohat et al.,loc. cit.; Chem. Abstr.,1973, 79, 139; 1970, 72, 130740; Lavie et al., J. chem. Soc.,1965, 75171).

Withaferin A exhibits fairly potent anti-arthritic and anti-inflammatory activities. It was found to suppress arthritic syndrome without any toxic effect. Unlike hydrocortisone-treated animals which lost weight, the animals treated with withaferin A showed gain in weight in arthritic syndrome. It is interesting that withaferin A seems to be more potent than hydrocortisone in adjuvant-induced arthritis in rats, a close experimental approximation to human rheumatoid arthritis. In its oedema-inhibiting activity, the compound gave a good dose-response in the dose-range of 12-25 mg./kg. body-wt. of albino rats intraperitoneally and a single dose had a good duration of action, as it could effectively suppress the inflammation after four hours of its administration. The effect of the withanoloide in suppressing granulation-tissue formation appeared to be similar to that of hydrocortisone. The locally induced graft (lymphocytes)-versus-host reaction in chicks was strongly inhibited by withaferin A (Sethi et al., Indian J Pharmacol.,1970, 2, 165; Chem. Abstr.,1973, 79, 142880)

Extract of ashwagandha induced a significant decrease in the arterial and diastolic blood pressure in normotensive pentobarbital anaesthetized dogs. It also prevented the hypotensive effect of acetylcholine and increased the hypertensive effect of adrenaline.   Alcoholic extract of the drug produced good response against mouse tumor, Sarcoma 180. In combination with gamma-radiation and hyperthermia treatment, ashwagandha significantly increased the tumor cure, growth delay of partially responding tumors and animal survival.  Ashwangandha, in addition to having inhibitory effect, also acts as radio sensitizer and heat enhancer Ahumad(a et al, Phytother Res, 1991, 5, 111; Uma Devi et al, Indian J Exp Biol, 1992, 30, 169;
1993, 31, 607).

Ashwagandha is classified as tranquilizer, adaptogenic and antiinflammatory. The herbal drug is found to decrease the degree of anxiety and depression and can be used as antidepresent. The effect of extract of the drug on mouse central nervous system has demonstrated a significant increase of the narcosis time. The recovery of righting reflex was sex and dose dependent. Alongwith Panax ginseng and Tribulus terrestris, ashwagandha was found to give improvement over all psychomotor functions including adaptability of patients, to various stresses and in the building of tissues. The methanolic extract of the drug inhibited the specific binding of GABA showing GABA recepter mediated anticonvulsent activity in mice [Dandiya, East Pharm, 1990, 33 (396), 39; Singh et al, J Res Ayur Siddha, 1990, 11, 1; Ahmuda et al, Phytother Res, 1991, 5, 29; Karnick, Indian Med, 1992, 4 (1), 1; Jayaram et al, Indian Drugs, 1993, 30, 498; Mehta et al, Indian J Med Res [B], 1991, 94, 312; Kulkarni et al, Indian Drugs, 1993, 30, 305].


Ashwagandha is used in several Ayurvedic preparations alongwith other herbal drugs such as - `Laksha Guggulu', `Raktawardak', `Abana', BR-16A etc in the treatment of hypercholesteroemia, mental disturbances, convulsions, etc [Panda, J Res Ayur Siddha ,1990, 11(1-4), 7; Poehlmann, Deerghayu Int, 1993, 9 (4), 8; Shukla et al, Probe, 1994, 33, 133; Shah & Patkar, ibid, 1993, 33, 20; Kulkarni & Verma, Indian Drugs, 1993, 30, 97]. 

Ashwagandha alters the concentration of Neurotransmitters - Chemical substances that are known to play an important role in Brain Processes such as Memory.  An abnormally high level of Gamma Amino Butyric Acid (GABA) or a reduction in the level of Acetylcholine, both Neurotransmitters can affect Memory.  The roots contain Fe (0.218), K (1.87), Mg (0.19) and Ni (0.126 mg/gm of dry plant material), along with other elements, which are reported to play a significant role in the diuretic and aphrodisiac activity of the drug (Lohar et al, Indian Drugs, 1992, 29, 271).

Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera) is commercially available in the following forms:-

NOTE:   PRODUCT OF HIGHER ALKALOID & WITHANALOID               CONTENT CAN BE PROVIDED.

USES:

• Brain health Tonic
• Active principles similar to GINSENG.
• Anti- Stress tonic
• Powerful Nervine Tonic
• Rejuvenator, Revitalizer, Restorative & Tissue builder.
• Anti-axiety, anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, anti-convulsive.
• Adaptogen.
• Immuno modulation activity, Tumoricidal activity & gastric cytoprotective effects.

OTHER REFERENCES::

1. I.P. 1966 PP 51, IPC-53 PP.253
2. DUKE, J.A. CRC HANDBOOK OF MEDICINAL HERBS, 1987, 514-515.

Source

ASHWAGHANDA

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Historical Uses:

Ashwaghanda is also known by the names Ashwagandha, Winter Cherry, Indian Ginseng, and Withania. Ashwaghanda, which belongs to the pepper family, is found in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Africa. The medicinal part of this herb is the root. The shoots and seeds are also used as food, and to thicken milk. Ashwaghanda is an important herb used in Ayurveda. The name comes from the peculiar odor of this herb, a smell akin to that of a sweaty horse.

Ashwaghanda in India is akin to Ginseng in other parts of the Orient. Both herbs are touted for their longevity enhancing and sexually stimulating properties, however Ashwaghanda is considered to be milder and less stimulating than Ginseng. Ashwaghanda has been used for 4000 years in traditional Indian medicine - it was used for tumors, inflammation (including arthritis), and a wide range of infectious diseases.

Traditional uses of Ashwaghanda among tribal peoples in Africa included fevers and inflammatory conditions. Modern herbalists classify Ashwaghanda as an adaptogen, a substance said to increase the body's ability to withstand stress of all types. Like other adaptogens, Ashwaghanda is supposed to improve physical energy, exercise capacity, and overall health. It also strengthens immunity (against colds, flu, and other infections), increases sexual capacity, improves fertility, and normalizes cholesterol levels. As its name "somnifera" suggests, it is also sometimes said to produce mild sedation (an effect potentially useful for those troubled by insomnia or anxiety). However, as yet the evidence for these and other potential benefits is limited to highly preliminary studies at best.

The primary chemical constituents of this herb include alkaloids, steroidal lactones, and iron.

Studies with rats and human volunteers have shown that Ashwaghanda is helpful in putting cancer tumors into regression (used as an alcoholic root extract) and in reducing inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis.

The plant's high steroid content was found to be more potent than hydrocortisone in animal and human arthritis.

 Compounds known as withanolides are believed to account for the multiple medicinal applications of this herb. Ashwaghanda has also been shown to relieve pain by lowering serotonin levels, which contribute to the sensitivity of pain receptors in the body. It is considered a good tonic for the mind and useful for those who have overindulged in work, drugs, or alcohol.

Available Product Form:

Capsules - 570 mg. each (Standard Gelatin, Pure Vegetable, –and- Certified Kosher capsules are available)

Available Purchase Sizes:

Sealed Bottles of 30, 60 or 350 capsules.

Herbal Ingredients:

100% Ashwaghanda 4:1
 

(This product does NOT contain fillers, grains, soy, yeast, sugars, binders, excipients, starches, or synthetic materials.)

Recommended Dosage:

Take two (2) capsules, two (2) times each day with water at mealtimes.

Product Warnings:

This product has no known warnings or contraindications.

Pricing / Ordering:

Source

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