Using Nature’s Secrets to Look Great and Feel Terrific, Stay young, slim, strong, and energetic – Naturally
How can you have better energy, mental clarity, and less chronic pain? First cleanse acids and impurities from body and mind then fortify vitality with herbal tonics. Bitter detoxifying herbs such as dandelion or East Indian neem capsules are best used during morning hours because bitter herbs are often laxative and diuretic. Use them regularly until body odors, dark urine, constipation or skin blemishes are gone. Then fortify energy with a tonic. Ashwagandha an adaptogen, a root that works as an excellent tonic that nourishes and rejuvenates the nervous system. Ashwagandha for energy, chronic pain, immunity and sexuality: http://www.absorbyourhealth.com/product/ashwagandha/?ref=4041
Weak, exhausted, overworked people can add ¼ tsp. of ashwagandha powder to a cup of water or warm milk twice daily during the late morning and afternoon. If you have chronic fatigue, backache, poor memory, weak muscle strength, low sexual vitality, and lack drive, Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is very useful to reduce signs of aging. It is available in health food store capsules and is sold as a powder in all East Indian groceries and herb shops. A renowned adaptogen, ashwagandha promotes rejuvenation, mental and physical health, and provides a defense against dangerous environmental factors. Research has shown that ashwagandha root extracts support healthy immune system function.
Ashwagandha helps maintain proper nourishment muscle and bone, while supporting the proper function of the adrenals and reproductive system. It is a famous sexual tonic for tired, achy, overworked intellectuals, but it has many other uses as well. Ashwagandha may be a promising alternative treatment for Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Ashwagandha has powerful antioxidant properties that destroy free radicals implicated in aging and numerous diseases. Also remarkable, emerging evidence suggests that ashwagandha has anti-cancer benefits. Used by both men and women, it acts to calm the mind and promote restful sleep. As an adaptogen, it improves health for people troubled with a poor diet, lack of sleep, mental or physical strain, or chemical and environmental poisons. It is especially beneficial in arthritis, hypertension, diabetes, and chronic stress-debility.
Scientific studies in June, 2006 Life Extension magazine support ashwagandha’s ability to protect brain cells. For example, ashwagandha has been proven as effective as some tranquilizers and antidepressant drugs. Stress causes increased peroxidation of lipids, while decreasing levels of the antioxidant enzymes catalase and glutathione peroxidase. Ashwagandha extract normalizes these parameters of free radical damage in a dose-dependent manner. Premature aging and chronic nervous tension are abolished by antioxidants in ashwagandha extract. Another amazing study in Life Extension reports that 85% of the brain cells observed in animals exposed to chronic stress showed signs of degeneration and long-term cognitive difficulties. Ashwagandha was administered daily and the number of degenerating brain cells was reduced by 80%.
Ashwagandha scavenges free radicals. Its steroidal alkaloids and steroidal lactones may account for its beneficial effects. To date, scientists have studied at least 12 alkaloids and 35 withanolides in ashwagandha, primarily withanolides, withaferin A and withanolide D. Other studies reveal ashwagandha’s antimicrobial properties against bacteria, including Salmonella. It enhances macrophage immune cells. Ashwagandha can be considered both a vitality tonic and detoxifier.
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Hi Letha,
I am a typical, very thin, Vata-Pitta and tend to be very dry in the Fall. Can I use Ashwagandha as a tonic? If not, what is a good substitute?
God bless.
Anne
Hi Ann
Good question. Let me inform others who may not understand your question.
Vata – nerve related pain such as neuralgia, nervousness, numbness can be improved with ashwagandha because it improves nerve fiber. I have recommended it for M.S. It is not very drying, more fortifying and grounding than drying. To balance its slightly warming effects you can add other herbs.
I would use equal amounts of ashwagandha and shatavari which is moistening and rejuvenating. That would support your muscles, bones, and flexibility. Shatavari is a sexual tonic because it increases fluids, especially helpful for female vaginal dryness or discomfort or aging issues after menopause. Shatavari and Shilajet capsules do that and increase semen for men. You can start with 1/4 tsp each of ashwagandha and shatavari powder in water at bedtime. Next morning you will gradually feel stronger bones, muscles, and lower back comfort.
You can often combine warming, or drying herbs with moistening ones to balance them. They are available in Indian groceries and online.
Thanks, Best, L.
Hi Letha,
As usual, excellent information. The one thing that is unclear to me is that at one point you are talking about an ahswagandha extract, then about a powder, and you are also mentioning capsules. Is there a qualitative difference in all these forms of ashwagandha?
Thanks,
Nola
Hi Nola
Thanks for the ashwagandha question. Extracts are often used in scientific experiments because they are stronger than teas and powders. Their potency can be more easily controlled. For home use, health food store capsules or powders work well. If you want a stronger potion, you can make your own home extract as I do. Add up to 1/4 cup of ashwagandha powder to a liter of vodka.Steep it for 3 weeks and then have no more than a couple of tablespoons daily in water.
Dear Letha;
My boyfriend has liver Problems, (due to blood transfusions in the 1980’s), Is ashwagandha ok for him to take?
Hi Teresa
I do not know what sort of liver problems he has. If he is sensitive to spices, alcohol, or any stimulating foods and herbs a better tonic for him might be cordyceps – a medicinal mushroom capsule. It reduces liver inflammation and works as a tonic for liver, kidney, adrenal glands, and lungs and it reduces heart stress by sending blood to the aorta during exercise and stress. For that reason, athletes use it. It does not overheat them during competition but supports endurance and reduces recovery time.
You can find cordyceps capsules in many health food stores including vitamin shoppe.
L.
Hi Letha!
In a previous posting you recommended “Gelsemium improves mood and energy, reduces nervous anxiety and 5HTP Griffonia pills reduce sugar craving, improve depression and weight loss.”
Or should I take ashwagandha and shatavari as you recommended it for Anne (I’m also the Vata-Pitta type). It sounds like a better combination that the Gelsemium and the 5HTP.
Which combination would be better? And is the detox a must before taking the ashwagandha?
Thanks again Letha!
J.G.
Hi J. G.
Those are good questions, but I would need to know a bit more about your needs.
homeopathic Gelsemium is advised for anxiety, but ashwagandha is recommended for weak muscles, back ache, mental and physical nervous (brain work) exhaustion.
I think gelsemium works better for nervous people who are so tense that they over eat, avoid or procrastinate with work or meetings because of anxiety/fear about the future or self doubt. —Nothing about muscle weakness or muscle or nervous fatigue.
5HTP is fine for people who are depressed and overweight – it is not a tonic, but reduces appetite that is excess from depression.
Ashwagandha is a real tonic (builds nerve fiber and nourishes muscle), not so much anti-panic remedies as the other homeopathic remedies are.
Hope that helps.
L.
PS when I take dance classes–I will start again soon in NYC– I use ashwagandha and shatavari for muscle strength and balance. They work well for exercise and endurance. The homeopathic remedies are not tonics. They wear off and are used for short term problems.
Hello Letha,
Thank you for your answer. Now I know what to use. I can’t use the aswagandha with vodka infusion, as I am sensitive to alcohol.
Hi Nola
Ok. You can also use ashwagandha capsules or use 1/4 tsp of the powder in a cup of water as needed.
Thanks for the information Letha!
Dear Letha,
I am 62 year old 5’4″ female, 135 lbs. I have systemic yeast infection due to doctor over-dosed antibiotics in 2002. I have a large cyst in my left kidney. Sept. 30, 2008 doctor said I passed a kidney stone and have about five more in there. I don’t have enough energy to finish the day and my appetite could be better.
Could you recomend any Chinese remedies to help me?
Thank you kindly,
Lynn
Hi Lynn
The first thing to do with a yeast infection is to temporarily give up eating sweets, sugar, yeast breads and fermented food like pickles. Have vegetables and proteins and lots of water.
Add 1 drop of Australian tea tree oil to a ceramic tea cup and hot water. drink it 1 – 2 times daily as an antifungal tea. Also take acidophilis with meals. That repopulates the body with helpful digestive enzymes.
You can also add 1/4 tsp of turmeric powder to a cup of yogurt daily. That also helps rebuild health in the colon and beautifies the complexion.
Dear Letha,
My friend is diabetic for more then 10 years.
He takes insulin daily.
How this Ashwagandha a wonderful tonic will help her ?
Are there any side effects of this tonic for diabetic
Hi Visha_s
ashwagandha improves energy which help your friend to feel better.
But with diabetes it is important to balance blood sugar by avoiding sweet foods – even carrots.
The best tonics for diabetes address that problem. They include:
stevia, Gymnema slyvestra.
See my book Feed Your Tiger – the section for BEARS to find foods and herbs most useful for diabetes.
best, L.
is anyone eating Ashwagandha leaves. what sort of effects they have.
Could any one suggest the use of Ashwagandha leaves. HOw can they be eaten ?
I loved ndha a wonderful tonic at Letha’s Asian Health Secrets!
Ayurveda strongly advocates the usage of roots alone for the internal usage. Vim, vigor, strengthening, rejuvenating properties are attributed only to the ashwagandha roots. Worldover, the clinical studies have shown the therapeutic efficacy of the roots alone. Ayurvedic physicians never advocates the usage of ashwagandha leaves in any form internally. Leaves are occasionally used only for topical purposes..
Thank you for your information and for reading this site.
Letha
Dear Letha,
Is ashwagandha useful for weight gain? How long does it take to see the results? Someone told me it increases appetite. I have lost a lot of weight in the past few months due to stress and am trying to put some weight back on but having a lot of problems. I have gotten a full physical exam and the doctor said everything is normal. I have been taking Ashwagandha churan 1tsp in warm milk 2x a day for one week. Please advise, thanks!
Hello Riya
Ashwagandha is really for anyone who feels weak, has poor immunity to illness and allergies and who feels tired.
It strengthens the legs and back, is useful for bloating and poor digestion and low adrenal energy. It won’t put weight on but will help build you up, recover from stress and illness. It is a wonderful tonic with many good uses. I would use it as you have been. Instead of eating fattening foods, try to get stronger and your appetite will come back gradually. You might combine 1/2 tsp of ashwagandha powder in water or milk with 1/2 tsp shatavari powder and drink that 2 – 3 times daily. It will help build firm muscles.
Don’t expect to see results quickly when using tonics. They work very deep – rebuilding internal tissue. As organs are rejuvenated, metabolism and energy can return. You might also consider using homeopathic Bioplasma, a combination of the 12 essential tissue salts (minerals) in homeopathic pills. Follow directions between meals.
If you have lost weight because of severe diarrhea, you might have an infection or parasite problem. When I teach classes, I forbid students to discuss health problems while we are having dinner together. It helps prevent indigestion.
best wishes, L.
Read somewhere on the net that Ashwagandha causes lesions on the kidneys. I have never heard of it.I would appreciate your opinion. Thanks.
Yipes!
I guess you can find just about anything on the Net.
Ashwagandha is a nerve and adrenal tonic used with confidence for centuries.
I would not worry about using it. I like to use more in colder weather to support
muscle strength and help prevent exhaustion.
What is the best way to drink the powder of Ashwagandha?
I hear can also add weight or may one lose weight, so how does that work? …for example do you drink it cold to loose weight and hot to put weight on
I kinda like to loose weight not mention absorbing the benefits of Ashwagandha (powder).
Thank you,
Skyba
Hi Skyba,
Ashwagandha is not for weight loss or gain. It is a nerve and muscle tonic. It can correct muscle weakness, fatigue, poor memory, and sexual weakness. I sometime add 1/4 tsp of the powder along with 1/4tsp of shatavari powder to 1/4 cup of milk. It makes muscles and bones feel strong and improves sleep.
I have Ashwagandha capsules to take. My doctor/friend said to take 2 capsules at bedtime with warm water or milk for sleep and anxiety. I dislike milk intensly but can sometimes tolerate organic milk. Can I take it with some kind of herbal tea? I was also told I could take it with ghee. What is the easiest way to take the capsules. If it is a big chore, I’ll end up not taking them. What is the reason for warm milk or ghee? What about just taking the capsules with water?
Thanks,
Pam
Hi Pam
I take ashwagandha with water. Sometimes I add ashwagandha and shatavari to pumpkin pie filling which masks the insipid flavor of the powders. Milk is considered sacred in India. Cows give it freely. For those of us who are lactose intolerant (most of the world) milk is a problem not a necessity. You can avoid it. Take calcium supplements and eat dark leafy greens for calcium.
Letha,
Thanks so much for the prompt response. My ashwagandha is in tablet form so if it’s just a taste thing, water will probably be fine. I just don’t know why they say “warm” milk, water or ghee. I have extremely good bone density (at age 65) and often take magnesium, calcium, potassium supplement which also helps with sleep. I’ll get some shatavari which I am not familiar with.
Thanks so much.
Hi i woudlike to know about ashwagandha. how its works and i want to lose some weight.and some peoples said ashwagandha roots is not good because people getting gain very fast. so where do i find the ashawagandha leaves. and rootsand leaves there are to difreent things which one good for loose a weight and how to take for normal life.
Hello Ameen
I don’t think people can lose weight from taking one herb only. You need a good diet and exercise.
That is safer for the heart and kidneys. Ashwagandha is a wonderful tonic for the nervous system and muscles and brain.
It reduces pain and improves memory. I can’t think of any reason not to take it especially if you are tired, have a back ache and can’t sleep because you are working too hard. But it is not for weight loss. Primarily it is for exhaustion.
If you eat more when exhausted. It may help you to feel better.
But see my diet recommendations in my book Feed Your Tiger. That book recommends the best sort of weight loss diet
according to your energy type. You might benefit from a different sort of herb that also makes you feel better and stronger. That book will help.
Hi Letha,
Good informattion
Can I eat Ashwagandha leaves every day in morning on empty stomach ?
Hi Ashim
Where are you getting ashwagandha leaves? We in USA can only find the root?
I know the root better, can’t advise about the leaves.
L.
Hi,
I have a 3 year old, who gets cold and cough every 2 weeks in winter. Is it ok to use Ashwagandha powder to increase him immune system? and if yes how should i give it to my 3 year old.
Art
I think astragalus is better for immunity to colds and flu.
You can add the contents of a capsule to milk or juice. There is also a very tasty
Chinese liquid called Extractum Astragali which is astragalus plus honey. It is a
sweet treat that enhances immunity. See a Chinese herb shop or find it online.
Ashwagandha is more for nerves and muscles, not for chills and colds.
hi this is pinky
my weight is 82kgs n many of them recommended to take ashwagandha leaves to reduce weight with proper diet can i take these leaves to reduce my weight plz help me in this n wht is the procedure to take this leaves
Hi Pinky
I have not heard of or used ashwagandha leaves, usually only the root as an energy tonic, The root is
not for weight loss. For healthy weight loss see the diet according to your energy type in the book
FEED YOUR TIGER.
Hi, I have been dealing with moderate to severe depression anxiety since May of 09 due to the passing of my father. I started taking theanine in the summer and found that it did not do enough to stop the anxiety and episodes of panic, which is the real issue. I have also gained a good bit of weight. I started taking ashwagandha in the middle of December and am pleased with its benefits thus far. I find that I have less nerve/muscle pain and less mental chatter. The panic attacks are coming less often and are less severe. What I’m wondering is, is if there is something I can add to the ashwagandha to make it’s effects a little more dramatic. Wasn’t sure if in my situation I should be adding 5htp or perhaps something else. Thanks so much.
Hi Jo
Sorry to hear about your father. Give yourself lots of time to readjust and say goodbye. Sadness is quite normal….Not knowing your case, it is difficult for me to recommend anything except something for general anxiety, something not very strong. I like an herbal and homeopathic combination called Calms Forte – made of minerals including iron that increase wellness and reduce nervousness. One herb in that combination has been recommended for heart palpitations, but the combo is safe and easy to use.
Ashwagandha is excellent for strength and nerve health.
If you want to protect your heart (important for chronic anxiety) I recommend ABANA (HeartCare) made by Himalaya which reduces cholesterol and strengthens the heart muscle and balances heart action.
best, L.
Thanks Letha. So if I am understanding correctly, you could mix the three of these together (ashwagandha, calms forte and Abana) and that would be safe? Or would you just pick one or the other? It’s interesting because I use a lot of the Hyland’s products. I have had an issue with heart palpitations so I am eager to try the calms forte. At times, it is hard to sleep because of it. I am somewhat concerned about what this anxiety could do to my heart. I find at times my heart rate is very fast and I have suffered from chest pains for the past few months. I am relatively young (in my twenties)so my main concern is if this were to continue, I would worry about the wellness of my heart.
One of the best things you can do for your heart is to maintain a healthy weight. Reduce animal fats and drink green tea.
I would use ashwagandha during the day and calms forte in the evening – one dose between meals.
Here is a simple schedule:
Digestive remedies with meals.
Heart remedy once late morning and if needed afternoon
Other remedies (skin, joints, pain, colds/flu etc.) between meals as needed
Relaxation remedies as needed in evening.
Mixing everything together all at once confuses mind and body.
best, L.
Hi Letha,
First of all, thanks for posting such useful information and replying to your readers’ comments — it’s rare to come across such a helpful blog.
I am about to begin taking ashwagandha in capsule form — a product called Sensoril by Natural Factors — each capsule contains 250mg of standardized extract. The ingredients say the ashwagandha comes from both roots and leaves and as I was scrolling through the comments here, I noticed that you don’t advise taking leaves internally. I am now confused about whether this supplement is useful or whether I should try to find another brand. What do you think?
I have chronic fatigue syndrome, systemic candida yeast and vulvodynia, so I am on a low oxalate and candida diet and also taking nystatin and about to begin diflucan.
Is it OK to take ashwagandha when I have systemic candida? Also, when I should take ashwagandha in relation to the anti fungal medications? Is it better to take ashwagandha before or after meals, or on any empty stomach?
Thanks so much.
Jane
At this blog I have written that I am unfamilar with ashwagandha leaf, but I am sure it must be useful.
Take it between meals. For candida avoid yeasty and sweet foods, fruit, pickles.
Thanks for the reply Letha! I’ll take the ashwagandha as you suggest, on an empty stomach between meals
Hello, I was wondering if I take Amitriptalin 150mg would taking ashwagondha be harmful. The pharmacist said don’t but I have read so many good things about it. Thanks
Sorry, Lisa I do not have medical training that would let me answer your question.
Ashwagandha is a valued tonic for muscles, heart and nerves. I am not familiar with the other drug.
L
Letha, this blog is extremely interesting…I would like to have your advice…I have suffered from chronic dysthemia (depression) with anxiety for years and have taken SSRI in the last 2 years…I stopped 3 months ago, because of side-effects related to he medications and irritability that got exacerbed…I began 5HTP 1 month ago, but insomnia returned so I just added ashwagandha…the effect seems almost instantly calming and I think it will work… I have 2 questions: do you think there are contraindications for taking both supplements? The other questions I have: is there something I could take for irritability (homeopathic maybe) that could help me in my work, I deal with a high stress level and I would like to be a bit more cool. Thank you.
M
Hi Marianna
I don’t see any problem in combining 5HTP with ashwagandha, because it is not an antidepressant drug or MAO inhibitor.
For irritability, you might step up liver-cleansing by adding up to 1/4 cup of aloe vera juice daily. It is laxative, and reduces acidity.
L
Marianna
PS, I also like homeopathic nat. phos 6x to reduce acidity, nervousness.
Hello,
I’m interested in taking green food powders as an alternative to taking a synthetic multivitamin. But there is one by Ron Teeguarden called “Tonic Alchemy” that has all these chinese herbs mixed in. I was wondering how safe is it to take all these herbs together everyday since it’s all mixed in one powder? Here are some of the herbs listed on the label: Gynostemma, ho shou wu, bitter melon, rhodiola, astragalus, cordyceps, schizandra, lycium fruit extract, fresh water pearl,Ashwagandha root extract. I know there are some herbs like licorice that you are not suppose to take for more than 4 weeks. Some herbs are are best taken for a period of time only.
Thanks for posting such a helpful blog!
Thanks!
Jen
Hi Jen
I would not worry about using many herbs at once since most Asian herbal combinations are made that way.
As long as the herbs react well, have a good synergy together, they will work. If you have delicate digestion, try a smaller dose or take it with food. Some of the herbs you list such as gynostemma, bitter melon, are bitter and should be combined with others like astragalus and ashwagandha which are tonics so that they do not drain the body with long term use. I would not worry about using licorice unless you have an active cancer. It is estrogenic, but usually the dose used is very small. It is combined with other herbs to reduce spasm and therefore enhance absorption.
best, L
Don’t neglect seaweeds – a great source of minerals.
Hello,
How is Ashwagandha beneficial for thyroid function? I have an Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and have been suffering with hair loss, dry skin/nails/hair, skin rashes, low energy, low body temp, and fatigue. What regime would you recommend for autoimmune thyroid disease? Thank you.
Laura
Lura
medicinal mushrooms such as reishi and shiitake have been known to improve
auto-immune diseases. They help balance immune responses because of their
nutritional value (polysaccharides and flavonoids) You can find Power Mushroom pills (Health Concerns) and others in healthfood stores. For diet see Feed Your Tiger, my healthy weight loss, weight management book, the section for The Basic Diet and Crane Diet.
best, L.
Hi Letha…i have lost a lot of weight in the past year..I am now 39 kgs (was 46 kgs end of 2008) and my height is 152 cms. I have PCOD and am taking treatment for it sinch July 2009. I exercise daily, eat 3 meals a day with snacks and juices in between and am getting enough sleep but am not able to stop the weight loss.
I’ve always had trouble with digestion. I am a Vata-Pitha combo but i think the vata dosha has increased because of the thinness, dry hair and skin.
I read that ashwagandha is good for weight gain. I was told to take it in the morning and night with ghee/milk/honey for 3 months.
1. I want to know if it should be taken right after the meals or before meals.
2. Going by the previous comments, i see that you have mentioned that ashwagandha does not specifically help in weight gain, in which case is there any other ayurvedic churna that can help me.
Thanks!
Hello seraquesera,
Sudden weight loss or gain is possible with vata/pitta especially during the change of seasons or emotional stress.
You should consult someone in your area for help with hormonal balance because you may have some other health issues associated with polycystic ovarian syndrome PCOD such as irregular menstruation, hypertension or diabetes. Weight loss and gain are indirectly involved with fertility because of hormone imbalance.
Ashwagandha is a great tonic for people who are weak and have chronic aches and weak muscles and heart. It does not directly stimulate appetite or as far as I know improve absorption. Since you feel vata problems you can use it, but not so much that it increases inflammation or irritation during summer. To gain weight you might use Chawanprash, a general tonic with many vitamins. The main ingredient is amla which is rejuvenating. But it also has ghee which is fattening. Take only 1 Tbsp. a day.
If you have diarrhea and it is a cause of weight loss, make sure you have no problem with parasites or thyroid.
When you use ashwagahdha, add 1 tsp to milk during the afternoon. Chawanprash herbal paste is taken before meals 1 – 2 twice daily. Avoid it if you are or become overweight and then use instead 1 tsp amla powder daily.
Thanks, Letha. That was helpful
Hi there, just came upon on this site and I’m so glad to have found all of this great info. I began taking ashwagandha almost a month ago to help me to focus and “get motivated” at work, and improve memory. I’ve been taking it morning and afternoon (as the bottle recommends) around mealtimes. I also have been drinking Tulsi tea throughout the day. I noticed that the ashwagandha has somewhat of a sedating effect, to the point that I get tired in the middle of the day. I also noticed that I sleep much deeper, but require more than usual 5 or so that I usually live on. Also, the two or three times I’ve drank alcohol since taking it (more than two or three drinks) I feel awful the next day and more dehydrated than normal (I know drinking is not a great idea in the first place of course, and have a past history of drinking excessively). Having said that, I have noticed a big improvement in concentration and energy, but it seems like its only when I’m doing everything else (getting enough sleep, etc) “right”. If not I feel more off balance than usual. I’m a classic Pitta type, and have noticed a slightly warmer, dryer feeling since taking it. Also have noticed an increased libido. So I suppose my question is whether or not this is the right herb for me…despite my questions, I’m hoping it is, as I really feel like I need this herb. but maybe need to balance it with something else?
Sorry this is so long – thank you so much!
Hi Rob
I like detailed questions. Yes. Ashwagandha is a great herb for the brain, nervous system, chronic pain and sexual health. It can be drying and warming for someone who is already a bit warm and dry–night sweats, thirst etc. So you can balance ashwagandha by taking an equal amount of Shilajet capsules, which are moistening and rejuvenating. They work great together. Shilajet increases semen, eases tension affecting internal organs and is full of useful nutrients.
L.
can ashwagandha churnam used for increasing the size of penis and also for its strengthness…can u suggest me more on this please
I never heard of ashwagandha being used as an aphrodisiac. It is a ginseng, an adaptagen, a nerve and adrenal tonic for
tired people who have a back ache.
Hi,
I find different forms of Ashwagandha in my nearby Ayurvedic store. For eg: Capsules, Powder and as a Tonic (Ashwagandharishtam).
I would like to understand which of these forms is more concentrated or effective?
Hello Sangeetha
Your use of ashwagandha depends in part on convenience. Some people find it easier, more pleasant, to add powder to water and drink the tea. Some prefer capsules. A tonic may have other herbs to balance the actions of ashwagandha. For effectiveness – observe your symptoms. Do you have backache, weak legs, nervous exhaustion, chronic pain or nerve weakness, paralysis, sexual debility or memory, insomnia from exhaustion? If so, ashwagandha may be very helpful. The dosage depends on your need and your body. When you start taking it, if your adrenal energy is quite depleted, the herb may actually make you rest more, ease your sleep patterns. You should notice that you feel a deep sense of physical and emotional comfort and improved muscles strength if you use it overtime.
Also check the expiration date. If the produce has past its recommended date, you can still use it, but use more.
Watch for improvement of your symptoms.
If the herb makes you feel overheated, increases complexion blemishes, you need to add some detox herbs.
If it makes you feel too sexually hyper or dry, you may need to balance ashwagandha with a moistening rejuvenating herb such as
shatavari (especially useful for women). Add equal amounts for ex. 1/4 tsp to a cup of warm milk at night–on an empty stomach– to improve bone and muscles strength. For sexual issues use ashwagandha and Shilajit capsules.
Dear Letha,
you recommend to take 1 drop of tea tree oil in hot water once or twice daily against Candida / yeast infections.
How many days should I take it?
Thank you in advance.
Marcus
Hi Marcus
Thanks for the question about yeast. The diet is also important – no sweets, pickles, breads or any other yeast source.
Lots of people use tea tree oil for 3 – 5 days and strongly feel the benefits. You may need more or less. But also include
yogurt or acidophilus capsules at the end of the day to enhance normal intestinal fluora.
Hi,
I have had 1/2 of my thyroid removed and am treating it with synthroid or synthetic T4 but do not feel better, still have many symptoms, weight problems, hair loss, fatigue, etc. and was wondering if you would recommend ashwaganda and if so, how much?
Thanks,
Ashwagandha is such as wonderful herb, Naleena, that I recommend it for anyone who needs energy and suffers from exhaustion, nerve pains and weakness, and debility with chills and/or insomnia. However, to address hypothyroid problems I recommend specifically eating laminaria (a form of kelp) seaweed. It tones the thyroid. You may have to monitor your synthroid intake. Foods to avoid for hypothyroid conditions include cabbage and turnip and overly sweet and heavy creamy foods. If you cannot find laminaria where you live, you may be able to find pills. In the US I order my seaweeds dried from http://www.theseaweedman.com
also Health Concerns makes pills called laminaria 4, which contains laminaria and sargassum seaweed for low thyroid, low energy, slow metabolism, borderline depression, and other issues you mention in your question.
best, L.
Hi Letha,
Thanks so much for your helpful info!
You mention the use of shatavari for vaginal dryness, and I’m wondering if it will also reduce menopausal hot flashes? I’ve recently stopped taking HRT and of course menopausal symptoms are back in full force. I’ve been taking shatavari for a couple of weeks now and I’m not sure if I’m taking enough. I’m taking it in a standardised herbal capsule 500mg once a day though over the past 3 days I’ve increased to taking it twice per day. Could you give me some idea how long this might take to work and also whether I should add something else too? I’m a vata/pitta type.
Hi Sara
Please see Diamond Ayurveda –the link on the homepage of this website. They are a company in Calif. that make
a shatavari cream to apply externally. Very soothing for vaginal skin sensitivity. It may reduce hot flashes if combined with a cooling diet and lifestyle.
hi,
please, i am akki, age26 and a bodybuilder i want to know if i use:
ashwagandha + shatavari + gokshura + safedmusli an equal quantity with milk at morning and evening. can it’s help me to improve my body weight and power? tnank’s in advanced.
Namaste Akki
That combination of ashwagandha for muscle and nerve support, shatavari for sexual fluids, gokshura for testosterone and safedmusli for strength and as an aphrodisiac–all sounds good for a body builder or anyone who needs to rebuild vitality from overwork, exercise, aging, or illness. I found this info on safedmusli: http://www.iloveindia.com/indian-herbs/safed-musli.html
Be careful to avoid inflammatory effects resulting from using too much too fast. I would start with once daily to feel the effects for a couple of days then increase to twice as needed. Start with 1/2 tsp of each powdered herb in milk or water. To enhance health and body structure, don’t ignore your balancing yoga postures such as these: http://punjabihospitality.com/Yoga14-Balance.asp
best wishes, letha
hiiii letha plz tell is this ashwaganda helps to avoid immpotency plz suggest me n if yes then how i take wit & time of taking thanx
Sagar:
Ashwagandha helps with fatigue, backache and leg aching and sexual weakness. It also improves sleep and memory. It is not a quick fix, but a valuable tonic that you take during a few weeks/months until you get stronger and healthier. For sexual vitality and health, I would take it with Shilajit capsules. 1/2 tsp. ashwagandha powder in water with 2 capsules Shilajit. Or 2 capsules of ashwagandha with 2 capsules of shilajit twice daily with or between meals. You will begin to feel stronger and calmer soon. It heals adrenal exhaustion from overwork, illness, weakness, age.
For impotence from lack of circulation, yohimbe is stronger. But yohimbe (from Africa available at healthfood stores) cannot be mixed with alcohol or emotional problems. It can give people dizziness or headache if it is too strong. The results are temporary. It is not a tonic but stimulant. Gokshura is a source of testosterone. If you want to use it, I recommend a pill that combines it with other herbs, for example, Python pills from Vitamin Shoppe (available in USA.) Gokshura is Tribulus terrestrus useful for older men who lack testosterone and have weak muscles and are overweight.
my son he is twelve years old.he has allergic, problem nose block and neck kharash .can i give him one green leaf with tea. please tell me.God bless you.
Feroza
I have never seen ashwagandha leaf tea, only the root. I think it may be ok for young kids, but not a strong dose.
There may be better herbs for kids. Ashwagandha is usually recommended for exhaustion and nerve disease –paralysis.
Hi Letha, I have been taking Ashwagandha for about 9 years after it was precribed by an Ayurvedic doctor as a general tonic. I have enjoyed positive benefits from it but my wife keeps asking if I should continue it regularly. I tell her it’s a tonic herb and is okay for regular use. Can you advise me on this so I can either not take it regularly or tell her it’s okay. Thanks,freddie
Hi Freddie
We use tonics to help the body/mind to work better. Ashwagandha like the other ginsengs is an adaptogen that helps us to reduce stress, fatigue, and illness. You can take it as long as you feel physically and mentally tired, weak or have a backache. If you use too much or it becomes too heating, you may feel too warm, or develop insomnia or temporary acne. Then cut back or add a cooling, moistening tonic to balance it. For example Shilajit and Ashwagandha are a good balanced combination.
best, L.
Hi Letha, My doughter is 14yr old and her weight is just 25kg she is very week can you suggest me any ayurvedic tonic,churna or tablets for gaining weight.
Dear Kamlesh Vyas
Why is your daughter underweight?
Does she refuse to eat or has she been sickly?
In general, I would recommend Chyawanprash as a tonic combination of herbs made into a pleasant tasting paste. Give her 1 tsp. twice or three times daily with warming cooked foods, soups, and no fried foods or strong tea.
Hi Letha,
I am currently 12 weeks pregnant, and I am confused about weather or not I can take ashwaganda. I have found many sites that say no, and other that say women used to take it to aid in a healthier pregnancy. I am a high stress person(PTSD, and Bipolar), and need something to calm my nerves ashwaganda has always worked great for me, but now I am afraid to consume it for fear it may harm the baby!!
Hi Letha,
I am currently 12 weeks pregnant, and was wondering if it is safe to take ashwaganda powder. I took it prior to my pregnancy, and it worked great, but have found conflicting answers as to weather or not it is safe for consumption during pregnancy. You answer would be greatly appreciated.
Hello Crystal
Ashwagandha is usually given during the final trimester of pregnancy to speed delivery time.
If you have weak muscles, lower back pain, you can try to add 1/4 tsp to a little warm milk and it will feel strengthening.
Dear Letha
I am 36yr old and i am suffrring from PE last year. Some one suggest me GARLIC for this problem.i am chew 3 cloves in morning with one glass luke warm water last 15 days.but i dont see just 1 sec.benefit on PE will you suggest me can GARLIC is beneficial for PE & how much time it will take, and can chew GARLIC is harmful for me.
Note – Sorry Letha my english is not ggood.
Thanks
Hello J G:
Please explain your symptoms. Is it premature ejaculation?
If so, I would not recommend garlic. It works well for reducing cholesterol that can block
blood vessels, but it’s effects on sexuality can be irritating.
If you are interested in an Ayurvedic approach Please see: http://www.ayurvedhealthcare.com/natural-premature-ejaculation-cure.html
According to Ayurveda, premature ejaculation is due to vata being aggravated. Vata is characterised by its qualities of quickness and heightened sensitivity to the sense of touch. This gives a predisposition toward quicker ejaculation and when vata is increased in a person with vata, sex cannot be sustained, or preejaculation is common.
Fear, anxiety or nervousness may be associated due greatly to the irritated vata dosha. It may also be due to high cholesterol deposits in the blood vessels of the penis and the whole reproductive system. This causes lack of sphincter control, resulting premature ejaculation when blood vessels become thick and narrow so that blood supply to the muscles of the penis and prostate is inadequate. To deal with this problem, we need to balance vata by following some of these effective ways:
· Change of Diet
A man with vata disorder, should change or maintain a vata-soothing diet. Follow a low cholesterol diet if you have a high cholesterol. Keep sugar intake low if you have diabetes as men with this problem tend to experience premature ejaculation.
· Almond milk
Almond is a good source for improving sexual drive and sexual related problems. Adding saffron, an aphrodisiac, to this milk drink makes it an effective remedy.
You need:
10 almonds
a cup of hot milk (cow’s milk)
saffron
pinch of ginger
pinch of cardamom
Just soak the almonds in water overnight. Peel off the skin and blend it with the milk and other ingredients. Take this almond drink every morning and you can have second helpings in the evening.
· Herbal remedy
A combination of Ayurveda herbs makes this herbal drink effective.
You need:
Vidari
Bala
Ashwagandha
Add ½ teaspoon of this mixture to warm goat’s milk. Substitute cow’s milk if goat’s milk is not available, however, the latter is more effective. Take this drink twice a day.
· Ginseng milk
Ginseng shares the same properties as the Ayurveda herb ashwagandha and is effectively helpful. Add ½ teaspoon to a cup of warm goat’s milk and take it after lunch and dinner.
· Yoga Exercise
Try the following yoga asanas exercises:
The Bow, Fish, and Camel poses
Elevated Lotus
Vajrasana
Hi Letha,
My husband and I have been trying to conceive for about a year would Ashwagandha & Shatavari increase my fertility? I have also read that I should drink Aloe Vera juice, would this be helpful? I have a vata-pitta dosha. Thank you.
Dear Viv:
The most common female infertility problem is an ovulation disorder. Ovulation is necessary for the release of the egg from the ovary. Some signs that a woman is not ovulating normally include irregular or absent menstrual periods. Other causes of infertility include blocked fallopian tubes (the tube through which the egg travels from the ovary to uterus), endocrine disorders, uterine fibroids, and anatomical defects of the uterus.
Several other factors such as age, stress, poor diet, athletic training, being overweight or underweight, tobacco smoking, alcohol, sexually transmitted diseases (STD), health problems that cause hormonal changes, can affect a woman’s ability to have a baby.
This website is most helpful for fertility herbs for men and women. The problem may be your husband’s as well as yours:
http://ayurveda-foryou.com/treat/herbs4fertility.html
To purify and balance doshas I recommend 3 – 4 tablets of trifala daily with meals
To ease stress and reduce excess acid = aloe vera added to juice or water daily
For enhanced fertility after ama (impurities, water retention) are reduced: shatavari add 1/4 tsp to water along with 1/4 tsp ashwagandha, twice daily between meals.
You might also add 1 – 2 oz of shatavari powder to sesame oil (if you are too pitta at the time, use coconut oil) allow this to steep for 2 – 3 weeks and apply as a refreshing, relaxing massage oil.
I am suffering with M S since April2008.Can Ashwagandha leaves and Aloevera leaves help me? If yes, how should I use it? I have both the plants at home.
Dear Minoo
I usually see ashwagandha root – used for MS. It strengthens muscles.
aloe is alkaline – for upset stomach, cramps, constipation. If you use aloe use only the pulp not
the sticky part or green covering they are too bitter and will increase cramps.
hi letha
i hv started using ashwagandha powder 4days before….is it helps in gaining weight…my weight is very low according to my height nd age
m taking it with shilajit capsules becz me also suffering from night fall…..could u tell me which type of diet i shud take with these medicines
Madhur
With ashwagandha take warm cooked foods, stews with root vegetables, warming digestive spices such as ginger, pepper, pippli, (clove for shortness of breath and sexual weakness.) Start with an equal amount of each then You can mix ashwagandha and shilajit as you need. Take more (warming) ashwagandha for sore legs, low energy, fatigue, poor memory and increase shilajit for stress and insomnia. Avoid too much caffeine–except tea is ok, avoid other harsh stimulants, cigarettes
If you need help with circulation, leg weakness and memory, add gotu kola.
hi.. i am very much under weight, is aswagandha is useful to gain weight ?.. how many capsules or how much powder or tonic to be consumed in day.. how much weight can be increased after week or month
Namaste Prasad
Are you underweight from fast metabolism? diarrhea? a thyroid problem? or other?
If you have parasites, you should treat them with herbs and eat a diet including antiparasite herbs. Can you find a local herbalist for that? It is better is you are checked to find out your underlying health condition.
Ashwagandha is a good tonic for nerves, muscles, and brain. You can add it to milk daily. It improve memory and vitality not appetite. Unless you are allergic to fats or have liver problems you might also add a drink made with milk and avocado, which is very fattening but healthy. Try to rest a little after meals instead of rushing around. Eat slowly and relax so that your meal can be
digested. Let me know how this advice works.
Hi I have just started taking ashwaganda mainly for low libido. Since having my children my sex drive has almost disappeared. Will ashwaganda help and how soon should I see results and what dose is best.
Lisa
ashwagandha works slowly to rebuild adrenal vitality and muscle strength. It will cure your lower back and nervous insomnia before it affects sexual energy. 1/4 tsp twice daily for 1 – 2 weeks. It is not an aphrodisiac – it does not increase desire but gives strength, comfort and confidence. If you need more help with balancing hormones, I recommend maca powder 1/4 tsp twice daily or added to milk or tea. For a revitalizing tonic for female sexuality in general – take an equal amount of ashwagandha with shatavari or maca. The latter enhance hormone levels naturally without complications.
I had hepatitus as a kid, was absent from school for 10 weeks. My liver and liver enzymes have chronically had high readings. I do take Milk Thistle (not sure that really helps). My biggest concern(s) are by back and joint pain 24/7. I was also in an auto accident last year and since have been taking low doses of prescription meds when the pain is terrible. Aside of all that, I take VERY low dose of Metropolol for A-fib which is not constant but has a tendency to crop its ugly head the more I am in pain.
Questions: Solrary Ashwagandha 470mg per cap. Will it interfer with anything I am taking? Will it mess my liver up any more? Will it be a benefit to my liver. And most importantly, will it really help my chronic pain? How much – how often?
Susan
Your back pain may be from disc injury – in that case ashwagandha may be able to help only indirectly by supporting your back muscle strength. More important is to correct a possible herniated disc with chiro or other treatments. In any case, ashwagandha will not harm liver and can be taken with medicines as you would use an energy tonic.
To be more specific:
1. Do you feel weak, chilled, have frequent urination?
2. Or do you feel excess heat, rapid pulse, dark scanty or painful urination? insomnia, red tongue, thirst?
The first set of symptoms indicates internal cold – then warming foods and herbs would help – ginger, clove, cinnamon, ashwagandha, BACKBONE pills from Health Concerns.
The second set of symptoms point to internal heat, inflammatory pain, hot flashes, dehydration, fever conditions etc. In that case avoid warming spices (above) and have more bitter, cleansing greens like milk thistle, dandelion, etc that treat constipation.
best, L
See my book Asian Health Secrets to learn how to read such symptoms and tongue diagnosis so you can choose your best foods/herbs and know when to quit or change them.
Hi letha,
I am a guy of 26 years of age.Can i take shatavari along with
ashwgandha for the symptoms discussed?is shatavari a female medicine or males can also take it to for themselves. Thanks
Hello Aman
I have heard the combination of shatavari and ashwagandha being used to rebuild muscle strength, reduce pain and slowly enhance energy including sexual energy for both men and women. Shatavari does support female hormones, but will not cause secondary sex traits like breasts etc. It increases mucus and is soothing for dryness, dry tissue. We each have both male and female hormones anyway.
However another good combination that might be better for you is ashwagandha and shilajit capsules. Both are extremely rejuvenating and supportive of general health and reduce stress.
Hi Letha,
amazing how you take the time to reply and help everyone in here
I don’t know if you had experience with Iboga.. but in case you do, I wanted to know if it’s safe to take Ashwagandha in combination with Iboga root bark?
I went through detox from opiates with Iboga, but these days I still suffer from chronic fatigue and chills (that drive me nuts).. I’m also on a candida diet.
I searched online for info on interactions between them and didn’t find any… thank you.
Hi Eyal
I had never heard of iboga so I looked around on the Net and found that some people are using it to reduce drug cravings. But there have been deaths reported from it. I have no idea how it works.
Ashwagandha like other ginsengs is not specific in its actions, but brings the body into a better health balance. It is milder and more neutral in temperature than chinese or korean red ginseng. That means it won’t give you a fever, but overuse my increase heart action slightly. It varies with individuals.
Ashwagandha is normally used for adrenal exhaustion, overwork, mental burnout. If you mix it with any other herbs, separate their use during the day. For example take a detox herb in the morning and ashwagandha in the afternoon.
You know you have had enough ashwagandha when it has reduced back and muscles weakness and aches, when it has improved memory and mental clarity.
Your candida may be wiping out your energy. It does that sometimes. For that I recommend a non-yeast diet, no mushrooms or sugary foods. 1 drop of australian tea tree oil in hot water as a cup of tea once daily to kill the yeast. Then take acidophilus to rebuild necessary digestive flora.
Hope that helps, all best, L.
Hi Letha
Just a question about the tea tree oil.. I thought it’s only for external use.. are you sure it’s safe to take it with tea?
thank you
eyal
hi i am 34male i am having problem my hands are shaking for last sevral day please suggest some tonic i drink daily
Mahabali
It is hard for me to followup with answers while I am traveling so I did not see your question until now.
Your hands may be trembling from too much caffeine and not enough sleep. Are you still having trouble
with them? Is it hard to pick up and hold something? It may be a pinched nerve in the neck that requires a
physical adjustment or a nervous condition that requires rest. Are your hands cold, hot or numb? That usually
shows a nerve problem.
Hi Letha,
I have problems with my feet since 2006. Symptoms were aching feet, constant pins and needles on the sole of my feet and I could only tolerate minimal pressure as the pain was intense. The left was worse than my right. Left being a 9/10 and the right being a 6/10. I had a tarsal tunnel release on the left in Oct 2009 that has made a minimal difference. There is no clear evidence of anything on an MRI, bone scan, nerve conduction test, etc.
In 2010 I became pregnant and from the second trimester until 6 weeks after the birth of my daughter all the symptoms disappeared and I was pain free.
Now the pain is back in both feet with also the constant pins and needles. However this time the pain is about a 7/10 in both feet. During the day I only have the pins and needles but at night when I wake and have to get up and put pressure on my feet the pain is crippling and I am forced to walk hunched over and drag my feet to minimise the pain.
I firmly believe the pain is nerve related and need to find an answer to get some relief.
Would Ashwagandha help? Is so in what form and dose? If not can you suggest any other remedies or tonics. Thanks
Alex
Hello Alex
It sounds as though you might have a lumbar disc pinching a nerve or a herniated disc. do you have pain running down the side of your leg to the ankles–Sciatica? Ashwagandha is a nerve and muscle tonic. I do not know if it can help. I am confused as to why your symptoms left during pregnancy…Have you gained weight when the pain increased? Let me know more. Does the pain go away when you swim — take all weight off your feet? Do they feel hot or cold?
Letha
i am a 21 year old girl having hight- 5’2″ and weight- 60kg. I want to cut down the extra body fat. I have weakness also, which prevents me from exercising. Can i use aswagandha? And how will this work benificiall for me?
Sonali
Ashwagandha increases muscle strength. It may help you to exercise more. I usually recommend that women take it with an equal amount of shatavari, but if you have slow digestion and water retention, take the ashwagandha alone in water. Please see my weightloss book Feed Your Tiger for many suggestions and recipes according to your body type.
Hi, i m very slim and underweighted girl. im also suffering from dust allergy (first stage of asthma) some one suggest me to take ashwangandha to improve my health & for normal weight& also for improving my height.Should i take ashwangandha or not? plz tell me is there will be positive effect on my body? plz give me ur valuable suggestions Thanks
Shanu
ashwagandha is a general and adrenal and muscle tonic. I have never heard that it changes a person’s height. It may make you feel stronger. It does not increase appetite. If you have weak muscles, sore lower back and fatigue from overwork and stress, ashwagandha is a good tonic you can take as long as it feels good for you. Most people in India take 1/4 tsp of the powder in a little milk. i would add 1/4 shatavari with it as a tonic for muscles, bone and flesh. You can add them to water if you prefer.
is there any side effect of ashwandha in summers?
Shanu
ashwagandha can be taken by anyone who needs it for muscle strength during any season. It is slightly warming and invigorating but not too heating. If it irritates, take it with shilajit.
ok thanks for ur reply plz tell than what should i take to gain weight ang height im of 20 yrs nd of 5’? .
Hi Letha,
Thank you for replying. No running pain down the side of my leg.
Prior to pregnancy pain was evident for 3 yrs (since 2006) and I was around 70kg (168cm tall). When I was pregnant (2010) I put on 20kgs, the pain disappeared and I was worried the pain would increase when I put on weight during pregnancy but it went away.
Currently 4 months after giving birth I am 80kgs (lost 10kgs) and the pain is the same as prior to my pregnancy.
Prior to getting the pain in 2006 I walked 5 times a week 5-8kms with no issues. When the pain started it was severe during the day and not as bad when I took the weight off my feet. I stopped all exercise as it increased the pain intensity.
Feet feel neither hot or cold.
Not sure about the swimming as I have not done this in sometime.
When I get off my feet the pain decreases over time (at night) and when I stand on my feet again the pain to my feet feels like they are being compressed thus a pressure type of pain.
Alex
Namaste,
Based on all the previous posts I should know the answer to my inquiry…but I want to be sure. I have a chronic form of leukemia and take daily for life a pill, Gleevec. One side effect is occasional nervousness or increased energy resulting in poor to minimal sleep/in addition to the typical fatigue anyway. I also teach yoga – which is a challenge with these, as well as lots of digestive problems. I am wanting to try ashwagandha root to help me sleep better (the other physical benefits will be great, also!!) but am not sure of the best amount to safely take, to just mix the root or to boil it 10-15 minutes? then just drink it? at bedtime? can I use it as the liquid for the organic acai fiber supplement, aloe & cherry juice concentrate I need to take an hour before bed? your input is appreciated.
Hello Dabe
If you want to try ashwagandha, i know of no harm if taken with medicines. You might wish to try it first during the day instead of night time. I am not sure how it will affect your energy. If a person is exhausted, it might help you to sleep. Otherwise, it is a muscle and energy tonic that reduces backache, poor memory, and weakness.
hi. i am 21. i am a normal built guy for my age, but i do have concerns about my genitalia development which, I reckon, are somewhat undersized compared to what I’ve learned from the internet, and people versed about that.
besides, the anticipation of not going to be able to last long sexually does tend to worry me even more. combined, these two factors are making me apprehensive of going for relationships. so, embarrassingly, i’ve been refraining and am virgin therefore. is there really a way(ahswagandha etc) to overcome these issues? this is crutch-ing my mind badly, and affecting my life overall. a reply would certainly be appreciated.
Dear Anon
Every case is different. Do not worry about comparing yourself to others. Your feeling for someone special will help you to relax. Looking for herbal advice, I found this helpful Ayurvedic formula. It may work for you over time. I do not know for sure, but you might want to try it for a while.
http://www.ayurvediccure.com/kohinoor.htm
Kudos to Letha for immense knowledge and drive to help people…
You are a gem….
Thank you, Sumit!
It comes from the heart.
Hi Letha,
Could you please explain the difference between Ashwagandha and American Gingeng.
Collette
Hello Collette
American ginseng an adaptogen is cooling and moistening. It helps us deal with stress, lowers blood sugar for diabetes and moistens the throat for dry cough.
Ashwagandha is a form of ginseng that is a nerve and muscle tonic. It reduces lower back pain, reduces fatigue and helps nerve illnesses like multiple sclerosis, numbness and weak muscles. They can be used together, but their actions are different.
Plz suggest me if i should take ashwandha with shatavari , than in which quentity i should take my age is 20 yr .
plz tell me its quantity and its time limit ( means 1 month,2 months etc )
Thanks
Shanu
I have severe adrenal fatigue and I read that ashwagandha will help me in addition to a healthy diet and rest, but I am 10 weeks pregnant. Can I take this herb and how much of it!! Thank you so much!!!
Cami
ashwagandha is recommended during pregnancy for backache because it strengthens back muscles. Normally it is used
during the final quarter, but to boost energy, you can use a small amount earlier.
I would start with 1/4 tsp in a cup of water daily to see if it improves your energy. Otherwise, if you are not allergic to mushrooms, another tonic for chronic fatigue is Power Mushrooms made by Health Concerns or their equivalent.
Dear Letha, thank you so much for being so kind and taking your time to answer all these questions from completely strangers. You have a very kind heart!! I hope your day is blessed!!
so, implicitly, you mean to say there’s not much that could be done in that regard, far as enlargement’s concerned? ’cause it’s consuming me, that all I can ever be loved for is just a nice personality and nothing else. well, anyway, i just posted to see if there’s anything helpful out there which, disappointingly, isn’t, but thanks for your kind attention.
Anon
I have seen medical discussion of this on the Net. So I know there are Ayurvedic herbs that I suggested
that can help. But each case is different. You should seek personal attention with someone in your area
who can recommend that best herbs. Do not be disappointed. I am sure some herbs can help, but
you may need some tests to determine the condition.
There are good general sexual tonics for men such as:
http://www.ayurvedicherbsdirect.com/vigorcare-for-men-tentex-forte-60-ct-himalaya-p-71.html
But you may have a hormonal or genetic issue that needs diagnosis.
i want to gain weight
Hello Rajeshwar
If you can see an herbal doctor where you are, that may be a good way to start. Make sure
you don’t have parasites. They can increase diarrhea and that makes it hard to gain weight.
Your metabolism my be too fast. I cannot know from here. If you feel speedy, can’t sleep,
if food passes through you too quickly, you may have a metabolism that is too fast or hyperthyroid
condition. If hyperthyroid, then eating cabbage cooked or raw and turnips can slow the thyroid.
Here is information on Ayurvedic herbs and diet advice from a health website i found:
Lack of proper weight means, insufficient tissue development, which leads to low immunity. There is always vitiation of Vata hence various diseases of Vata may occur. Joint pains, weakness in muscles, insomnia, various types of neuralgic pains, fatigue after manual work are common symptoms.
Treatment
Tonification therapy is ideal for this condition. Oils that are advised for tonification are sesame, almond, olive, and avocado. Tab. Ashwagandha, or tab. Shatavari, or tab. Amalaki, or tab. Skapikacchu are useful. Any one of these can be given 500 mgm; twice a day for 1 to 2 months with vidari, curculigo orchidis, asparagus adsendus, and jeevanti. These herbs can be supplemented with the tablets in dose of 1 gm. A day for 1 to 2 months.
Tonics like chyavanaprasha or dhatupaushtika churna or musli pak (YC) or brahmi rasayana can be given in dose of 1 to 3 tea spoons 2 to 3 times a day for 3 months.
Diet
Anti – Vata diet is advised. Proper nutritious food, which is fresh and properly cooked , should be consumed at regular time. Ayurveda has advised whole grains like wheat, oats, and brown rice, meat, fish, eggs, ghee, honey, raw sugar. Nuts and seeds like almond, walnuts, cashews, coconut and lotus seeds are good for strengthening nervous system. Black gram, mung beans, and chick – peas are also good. Fruits like dates, raisins, figs, pomegranate, and grape juice is good. Oil enemas, sufficient rest, oil massage, warm and comfortable baths and comfortable life style. Excess sexual activity should be reduced. Proper combination of work and rest should be followed
I bought two of your books. With highlighter in hand…I know I will spend several weeks reading and rereading. Briefly, I have a tongue that is really coated with yellow film most all the time, extremely jagged down the middle and rough on the edges. I am tired most of the time, in lots of lower back pain from an auto accident (to which I take a small amount of pain meds for…not much) and I have a-fib (slight case). Having hepatitus as a kid now as an adult my liver enzymes are come out with a high reading but further test show no tumors, etc. I do love my sweets and I do love one (1) latte a day. I have started taking Taifu Plus, a natural herbal digestive aid and toxin elimination that I purchased from a herbalist nearby. For ph balance I take Barley Grass and it seems to bring me out of an acidic condition to middle of the ground. I also drink the lemon and ginger slice in hot water 2-3 times a day. I have just started taking one capsule of ashwagandha per day. Any recommendations.
PS. I have this awful thing that happens when I go to bed. I am tired….and then the minute I hit the pillow I lay starring at the ceiling for 2-3 hours. I have stopped eating after 5pm, no caffine or sugar after noon.
Thanks for your time.
Susan
I am now 37 and was operated for acromegly(pitutary tumor) in the year 2006 (then i was 33yrs). since then i have Thyroid(TSH is always flutuating)and my periods have stopped since then. I have no baby and wants to conveive. My docs recommend i should go for HRT or start contraceptive pills because of low estrogen level. I am not taking any of those since I am not convinced and to me they are more harmful to body and cause many other problems. Suggest me if Blend of Ashwagandha and Shatavri can work for me. Thanks for all your help.
Dear Kanika
If you took ashwagandha and shatavari it would help your energy, muscle strength, and help relax nervous tension. But for fertility the following formula is more complete:
http://www.ayurvedicherbsdirect.com/womens-support-90-ct-banyan-botanicals-p-121.html
Women’s Support made by Banyan:
Each 500 mg tablet contains: Shatavari root (Asparagus racemosus)*, Guduchi stem (Tinospora cordifolia)*, Vidari Kanda root (Ipomomea digitata)*, Punarnava root (Boerhaavia diffusa)*, Musta root (Cyperus rotundus)*, Brahmi herb (Hydrocotyle asiatica)*, Aloe (Aloes spp.), Tulsi leaf (Ocimum sanctum)*, Coriander seed (Coriandrum sativum)*, Rose petals (Rosa damascena)*, Fennel seed (Foeniculum vulgare)*, Cardamom seed (Elettaria cardamomum)*, Cinnamon bark (Cinnamomum cassia)*
Take it along with additional shatavari.
Women’s Support may be called another name in India. Check with Banyan herb company.
Here is the action of the herbs:
Promotes vitality, strength & proper function of the female reproductive system*
500 mg. tablets, 90 per bottle
Balances production of female hormones
Maintains regular and healthy menses
Supports healthy libido
Eases menopausal transition
Ayurvedic Energetics:
Rasa (taste): bitter, sweet, astringent
Virya (action): slightly cooling
Vipaka (post-digestive effect): neutral
Doshas (constitutions): Balancing for all doshas
Herbal Actions:
alterative, antiemetic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, carminative, demulcent, depurative, diuretic, emmenagogue, galactagogue, laxative, nervine, nutritive, rejuvenative, stomachic, tonic
Traditional Uses:
agalactia hyperacidity muscle ache/cramps
amenorrhea infertility nausea
dysmenorrhea (painful period) irregular menses PMS
fatigue leukorrhea post-partum
general debility menopause sexual debility
hot flashes menorrhagia water retention
Possible Contraindications:
Because this formula contains Aloe, do not use during pregnancy.
Suggested Use:
Take 1-2 tablets, once or twice daily, or as directed by your health practitioner.
You are doing such a commendable job. Thanks for all your help.
I guess i will go ahead and order this from US itself .
Also recommend if this will regulate estrogen and thyroid in body. Is this helpful in over all well being. Should I take another formulation along with it for improving body constitution.
Regards
Kanika
I am inspired by your writings on health and nutrition. I read your articles regularly and I have benefitted immensely.
I am reasonably healthy , height 5’ 6” and weight 68 Kg. I do an hour of exercises ( Cycling, running, boxing, plyometrics) 4-5 days a week . I also attend yoga classes once week.
Recently my GP has found me to be Labile Hypertension. My BP at rest is 125 – 135/70-80. When I am anxious/stress the BP slightly goes higher. I am not an any medications for BP. Very recently I have started taking Triphala at night.
Can I take Ashwagandha as a good stress reliever ? Can it be taken on a long term basis (e.g 6 or 12 months) ? Does it have any adverse side effects on people with Labile Hypertension ?
Once again million thanks for the great work that you do.
Regards
Ravi
Dear Ravi
Thank you for writing. I appreciate your comments about my work.
Let me ask more information about your stress/diet etc that may impact your fluctuating hypertension.
Do you use caffeine or smoke?
You sound young from your exercise program. Yes?
Does your blood pressure go up when the doctor checks it and down again at home?
Does stressful work, home etc. affect emotions and blood pressure?
Does it regularly go up in the afternoon and evening?
If fatigue, stress, overwork and worry are involved, ashwagandha would be very helpful.
You should also consider herbs for cholesterol and blood vessel health as well such as arjuna. Please see articles on both herbs at this website. And let me know if this information helps.
Here is an useful article about labile hypertension:
http://www.hypertension-bloodpressure-center.com/labile-hypertension.html
Quote from the article:
Another reason for labile high blood pressure is white coat hypertension. This usually refers to doctor’s office readings of blood pressure which are higher than home blood pressure readings as a result of anxiety of being in a doctor’s office. This usually means a blood pressure reading taken at home in the morning before leaving for the doctor’s office will be significantly lower than what comes up at the doctor’s office. The reading falls yet again as one returns home making the visit to the doctor’s office a cause of blood pressure spike.
Apart from white coat hypertension and the adrenaline tumor, labile hypertension is very much associated with emotional responses in individuals and anesthesia for some. Severe reduction of arterial pressure can occur during anesthesia for some people. Consumption of caffeine is also associated with sudden blood pressure spikes. There is ongoing debate on the link between caffeine and high blood pressure.
Excess sodium consumption is also a possible cause of this subtype of hypertension. A significant number of people have remarkable salt sensitivity which causes blood pressure spikes at the consumption of a high sodium meal for example. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends a daily sodium intake of 2300mg yet most people eat as much as 5400mg per day mostly in processed foods. Modern day stress loads have been shown to result in stress induced hypertension which might register as labile high blood pressure.
For some people especially the elderly in the 60 plus year range, food intake may cause blood pressure to drop from normal to low or from a abnormally high to an abnormally low blood pressure reading. Medically this drop is explained by blood rushing to the intestines to facilitate absorption of digested food some 30 to 70 minutes after a meal.
Labile Hypertension Symptoms
Generally labile high blood pressure may show no symptoms as the fluctuations occur. However when the average blood pressure in the midst of these fluctuations is high enough individuals may experience the usual symptoms of high blood pressure such as headache, dizziness, weakness and others. In fact labile hypertension may have the same end points as stable chronic hypertension which includes stroke, heart disease and heart failure. From that perspective labile high blood pressure is equally dangerous. Organ damage may also occur in some patients and the condition may even lead to chronic disability” End of quote.
If you use the herbs I mentioned, arjuna or Abana (in India; HeartCare in USA) and , ashwagandha
They can protect your heart, BP and stress levels.
best, L.
Dear Letha
Thank you very much for advice and it so kind of you to respond to every query with so much of details.
I do not smoke, I do not drink Coffee at all or any sugary soda’s. I drink 2 – 3 cups tea per day. I am 46 and I am aspiring to become a personal trainer.
I drink 2 glasses of wine on a Saturday.
I have no dizziness or fatigue. I am one of those white collared hypertension candidates. At home at complete rest it is 128- 138 and when measureds in clinic it is 140-145. Much like you, my GP concludes that my labile is because of some worries.
With Salt, over the last 12 months I have been eating too much of olives ( bottled in Brine water) in my Salad. I was addicted to olives. Roughly about 100 -150g of Olives per day may have contributed to the problem.I have stopped them completely.
I underwent number of tests ( SESTAMIBI Stress test, Echo Cardio and CT AngioScan, Pulmonary Thrombosis ) and all turned negative.
I have also increased my water intake from 1 – 1.5 L per day to 3.0 L per day ( Thanks to Dr.Batmanghelidj ), and I am observing good results.
With your valued advice and Ashwagandha, I am now very confident that I can overcome the stress. Once I see some improvement I will drop a note.
Once again many thanks for your advice.
Best Regards
Ravi
hi,i am aliya my weight is 40kg and i am 19year old i want to gain my weight please give me information about ashwagadha is this helpful for gaining weight?
Ashwagandha is not actually recommended for weight loss. It is a wonderful tonic for weak muscles, high stress,low energy.
It may improve mood, memory, and immunity. I do not know if you have a hyper thyroid problem, if you digest too quickly or if you eat poorly, non-nutritious foods. What is your diet? Some people on raw diets are underweight and need vitamin B12.
i need to know more before I can advise.
[…] more sleep. Here's a blog discussing ashwagandha that has a great Q&A section at the end: Ashwagandha a wonderful tonic | Letha's Asian Health Secrets Ashwagandha benefits – Benefits of Ashwagandha It does have a few side-effects so be sure and […]
HELLO lETHA,
dOES this HERB help in Boneloss also? When is a good time to take ashwagandha? Reason I ask is due to the fact I feel sleepy more then usual these days. Even at work right around 3pm I start getting sleepy.
Does this help with boneloss?
When is a good time to take the supplement?
Average time before this product starts working in the body?
Can I take this empty stomach?
Kind Regards
R
Hi Amer. Rockstar
Ashwagandha does improve bone loss because it improves overall vitality and absorption of minerals. See my articles at this website addressing osteoporosis. Important to avoid when concerned about bone loss–smoking, steroids, and some people say dairy products. I recommend sesame seeds and sesame paste, green vegetables, bone meal tablets, goat whey if you can get it and an Indian capsule Shilajit as a tonic. It rejuvenates internal organs and is great for health. If you get sleepy around 3 – 4 PM it shows that adrenal strength is low. See my book Asian Health Secrets for advice for adrenal support. Some adrenal tonics are warming, others cooling and moistening. Adrenal energy is important for preventing bone loss because adrenals support heart, circulation, and bone density. Ashwagandha is a fine adrenal tonic for most people. Take it with or after meals. You can take ashwagandha and Shilajit together for a better treatment. Expect to take some time to see the effects. If you are in good shape, without bad habits expect to feel results in a few days. If you have been sickly or overworked it will take longer maybe a couple of months but gradually you should notice stronger legs, better vitality mentally and sexually before you notice any effects on bone loss.
hi!
i want to know can we use ashwagandha leaves for reducing weight? and if we can, how to use it? also tell me that how much time it will take to effect and what should be my diet while taking it.
Hello Prerna
I have no experience using ashwagandha leaves because I have not found them in the USA. My best diet advice is individualized according to body type found in my book Feed Your Tiger. Good luck, L.
Hi Letha and thanks for all this very useful information.
I was wondering how best to take ashwagandha if I have ashwagandha dried root (sliced) instead of the powdered form?
Thanks.
Hello to alok Patrick, Any time you have a whole root, which is more dense than leaves, you have to cook it a long time to get the best benefits. I cook such dense herbs as hard medicinal mushrooms (reishi, coriolus or others) in a crock pot at high heat for 3 – 4 hours or overnight with a lower temperature. That makes a water extract. Otherwise, if you want to cook sliced ashwagandha it can be cooked in a non-metal pot for an hour and added to soup stock or enjoyed as a beverage.
I have started taking 1 capsule of Women’s health from Banyan Botanicals in evenings close to going to bed. What quantities
of shatavri should i start and a preferable time to take that.
Just to give little more detail, if that may help in suggesting some combination along with Women’s health.
As I discussed i was operated for acromegely and since then i have Thyroid and I am taking Thyronorom 75mg(as of now,though TSH level keeps flutuating). I got my blood examined recently and the results are as
T3- 2.74, T4 – 0.78, TSH 0.048, Growth Hormone (GH)-0.56, Prolactin- 17.00 SGOT – 43, SGPT – 46
My ultrasound for lower abdomen(TVS) done a in month of march’11 says, Endometrial thickness is 2mm-echogenoc and cyst in left overy easuring 1.6×1.6cms cyst has been there for quiet some time and the size does not change much)
My voice has gone hoarse and my face which was very clear at one time has pigmentation spots and other pimple marks (which developed during the time of Acromegly). Now i also suffer from another probblem which does not allow me to go out in hot and humid weather. When i got out i develope red small bumps on my skin almost all over the body and I am exposed back to cool temperature(say Air conditioned ) they subside down .
Sorry for making it little lengthy this time.
Kind Regards
Kanika
Hi Letha, thank u for all of your information. Can I take aswagandha powder mixing with ghee and form it like a bati and drink this bati with milk. Please imform me. Thanks.
Hi Tania
Ashwagandha with milk and ghee are OK as long as it is not too rich- irritating for liver–and too laxative for you.
I prefer ashwagandha and shatavari in water because dairy is too fat for me.
I am 60 yr. old female,estogen dominant, adrenal fatique, insomnia and zero libedo{now affecting marriage} Please tell me id shatavari could help also simply cannot afford to gain weight, so am concerned about that side affect. Thankyou
Hello Judy
If you take shatavari and need a boost to sexual energy and libido, I would add an equal amount of ashwagandha. In fact, I often recommend the two used together as a general tonic. It will not put on extra weight that way. Add 1/4 tsp of shatavari powder and ashwagandha powder to 1 cup water twice daily. IT may take a couple of weeks before you can recover from adrenal exhaustion. But if you respond quickly to herbs, you will feel the effects in a couple of days. Continue using the tonic a long time because ashwagandha strengthens muscles, improves sexuality and reduces stress. Another good tonic you might add is Shilajit capsules 2 – 3 daily with meals. It is a good source of minerals and very rejuvenating. See my book Feed Your Tiger for weight loss advice.
Hii dear Letha my boyfriend suffer from muscles weakness and he get irritate easily. Very less tolerance level. Can he been benefited by using aswagandha powder??? Please inform me. Thank u.
Hi Tania
Ashwagandha is excellent for fatigue, weak muscles, low sexual energy, poor memory and insomnia from exhaustion. There are no side-effects because the herb helps us to adapt to stress. If your man is crabby, has a quick temper, it may be his personality. OR if he has other symptoms like jaundice ( a yellow or orange cast to the skin) or bad breath, or insomnia, then he may have a liver issue. In that case, some bitter cleansing herbs like dandelion capsules or leaves added to salad would help.
For Body building Tips, contest, events
Hello Lethia,
Appreciate your response earlier on ashwagandha. I really need your assistance on hairloss. If i take shilajit my hair fall even faster. I am young and really want to keep my hair. tried lot of supplements but nothing works. please suggest….
Hi I am 17 yr old female. I Hav high testosterone (like in the 300s)and low estrogen, normal progesterone. Can I take ashwagandha to make me feel better or would it make my testosterone to high since ashwagandha raises testosterone??
Lorahhdshc
I am not sure ashwagandha raises testosterone. If you can get it, I recommend maca the root vegetable hormone-enhancing herb from Peru. It helps your body to make needed estrogen. Add the powder to water or tea. It tastes mildly pleasant.
hey lethia,
).
I am a 22 year old boy… I feel myself more stressed since last 5-6 months.. Its not as such problematic but i noticed increased pulse rate sometimes i.e around 90 most of the time so i have decided to use ashwagandha knowing its value (thanks to your website
I take marijuana daily in night and smoke 20 cigarettes daily. I have decided to control my smoking habit to 4 or 5 daily, but marijuana, is it safe to take with aswagandha?? was worried about this… Reply expected soon. Thanks
Chandu
We are having a debate in this country about marijuana. Some research people say it is addictive and harmful, others recommend it for pain and nausea. Certainly cutting your smoking will improve your health. Taking ashwagandha can also improve health and may increase your tolerance for stress. See how ashwagandha affects you. You may need less marijuana because you feel more comfortable.
hi i used ashwagandha for 4 months wanted to know does this medicine cause auto immune disease
Kiki
What are your symptoms that make you suspect an autoimmune disease? Ashwagandha is an adaptogen that helps us avoid stress.
hi thanks for your reply. i recently had my complete body check up. everything became normal except esr which was 45. i have read various articles on ashwagandha which says as its an immune booster it may cause auti immune disorder. my esr came high after using ashwagandha as it was normal in my previous body check up. i have not noticed any major syptoms yet apart from ear pain and weird feeling like not feeling sleepy. i have stopped taking ashwagandha now. i have talked to my doctor and he says 45 is not high. kindly advice
thanks for suggestions… I have already started using it and i feel sleepy early in night and i wake up early which is actually good because i take marijuana in night but i have to cut it off since last 3 days due to sleep..
I started to take half teespoon of Ashwagandha mixed with Honey and i am getting very tired.
I take also 2 teespoon of Chyawanaprash and 1 teespoon of Turmeric every day.
Should i stop Ashwagandha ? Is it to much what i take ?
Katerina
I would take the ashwagandha powder with water not honey. Also turmeric is anti-inflammatory especially for joints and ligaments. You may not need to take so much of that. I would have to know more about your condition.
Hi,
I have severe problems of tremors in my body.Problems are
1.My hands shake when I am doing things like while signing,taking
coffee cup, normal day activities.
2.I get nervous when I am talking to someone in crowd,during
interviews,giving presentations etc.That time I have observed that my
hands tremble a lot and my hearbeat increases and after it everything
is normal.
3.Sometime I have observed that my whole upper part of the body jerks
for a while.
4.Colours of my nails are white and my hairs are very
rough.Liver Function test has indicated that the bilrubin level is generally high.
5.I feel weakness in my body.
Apart from the above problems I am fit and fine and do excercise
regularly.I have observed the tremors in my mother and siblings.
My age is 28 years, height is 5 feet and 7 inch and the weight is 65kg.
Please let me know the cure for the above problem.?
Thanks
Jordan
There are a number of reasons why your hands may shake, including anxiety, hyperthyroid condition, overuse of caffeine, and illness that affect the nervous system. If you are thin and nervous, insomniac and speedy and over emotional it may be a thyroid condition. To moderate the thyroid cabbage and turnips are helpful. They are relaxing. If it is caffeine, smoking or other stimulants the shaking will stop if you reduce those. If it is MS or Parkinson’s than testing is necessary to determine illness. High bilirubin may indicate liver congestion. Are you jaundiced – a yellowish or orangish complexion? If so, liver congestion can be reduced with bitter cleansing herbs such as dandelion. You might start with a balancing, cooling calming herb such as Gotu Kola. I would start there, 3 – 6 capsules daily. LEt me know if that helps. best, L.
Hi,
My age is 29 (Male), weight around 52-53 KG and height is 5’8″.
I have just started basic exercise and started eating like banana, potato, boil eggs. I just want to increase my weight because I look thin.
I am thinking to take ashwagandha power 1 small spn daily (morning and night) with hot milk. So use of ashwagandha will work for weight gain, as you already said it builds muscles?
And should I also use Ghee and Chavynprash?
And one last question after taking all these in how many weeks/months I can see the effect or weight improvements like 1 month, 2 months, 3 or more.
Thanks,
Looking forward for your useful suggestion.
Jubin.
Hello Jubin
To increase weight and vitality take equal parts of ashwagandha and vidari kanda powder (a yam) that also works as an energy and sexual tonic. Chavanprash is also OK, 1 Tbsp or 2 per day. I do not know how long it will take to increase weight. It depends on your own energy and body. Do not neglect vegetables even though they do not add weight. They are very healthy also nuts and seeds. Not fried nuts that may be rancid. The 2 tonics ashwagnadha and vidari will put on weight, vidari is also given to children who are underweight and to seniors because it enhances semen for men, a moisturizing tonic (increases Kapha) balances and supports vata and pitta, safe to take for most people. You might start with 1/4 tsp of each in water 3 times daily.
best, L.
Thanks Letha for your instant and useful reply. Few more questions comes in mind
1) Should I eat 5-6 times in a day instead of 3 times of heavy meal?
2) As my age is 29, Is that okay to take 7 hours sleep?
3) Should I do workout 3 days in a week or 6 Days?
Looking forward for the answers and any other useful information…Ultimately my target is GAINING WEIGHT.
Thanks,
Jubin
hi, letha
i m 25 yrr old my height is 5ft 11″ and my weight 89. i m suffering from premature ejaculation since last 4-5 yrs. i ejaculate wihtin 40 sec. plz give some advice about good medicine which available in india.
Shilajit is a fine rejuvenating tonic Shashi. It is balancing for all 3 doshas.
i heard about bala,ashwagandha and vidari but its not available easily except ashwagandha. and tell me about heating and cooling capacity of body.
shashi
bala is a nerve tonic and diuretic. ashwagandha is a muscle tonic for nerves, lower back pain and sexual weakness. vidari is a moistening tonic that increases semen for men. I would recommend ashwagandha and vidari taken together. 1/4 tsp of each in water three times daily. Also shilajit is fine for balance. They are easily available in india in Ayurvedic markets. You can even find them online.
hi, letha
thankx for suggest me.
can i take neem capsule with these medicines.
Hi Letha,
I am a 22 year old male 5’11 175lbs. I am currently suffering from Anxiety/Depression & Weird sensations in my head. I am prescribed on Prozac and Elavil. I went to a monk he suggested that I take Ashwagandha & Dashamoola ( 1 lbs of Ashwagandha and half pound of dashmoola mixed) and he recommended 1 tea spoon 3 times a day. I am a smoker & I am trying to quit as well. I feel shortness of breathe sometimes. My question is how long does it take for Ashwagandha to help me?
Hello Massif
The combination of herbs recommended by the monk sound very good for nervous problems, anxiety and stress. However, if you started taking the prozac and elavil be very careful how you stop taking them. Such drugs have a rebound reaction. That means if you stop taking them suddenly it is likely you will feel worse, terrible for a while. So with your doctor phase out the drugs, don’t quit cold suddenly.
The herbs work in a supportive way. They make you feel gradually stronger and calmer because they feed and balance your nervous system. The monk recommended 1 and 1/2 pound because it takes time for the herbs to work. That is not because the herbs are weak but because you need help. The herbs have to work with your body and your nutrition. They do not take over the work of your body like a drug, but support your real energy. That will take some time, maybe a month or so depending upon how weak, tired, and stressed you are. Everyone is different. That is the advantage of taking a natural remedy. It suits your needs. But while the herbs are working you will be building health. The herbs do not work like a sedative – a mind drug that chemically stops anxiety while you are taking it. Drugs stop working when you stop taking them. But herbs build health so that after you take them for a while your own body takes over and does the work it should. Try to be patient and your mind will clear, your muscles will become stronger from ashwagandha and mood more balanced from the combination of herbs called dashmoola.
hi letha,
can i take neem capsule wid ashwagandha,vidhari and shilajit.
Thank you very much Letha, I have been feeling calm lately it’s my 3rd day on herbs. I am hoping it helps my OCD
you are doing a great job letha…thanks for such a valuable support.cheerrss
I am taking 1 spoonful of organic aswagandha powdered roots. How much a spoon of powdered roots contain actual content of aswangandha in milligrams
Dear Sridhara,
The mg strength of the dose depends upon the herb which can vary according to the potency and growing conditions of the crop. But here are general directions:
http://www.ehow.com/how_5134913_use-ashwagandha.html
For sensitive people, I usually recommend starting with 1/4 tsp twice a day in order to get used to it. In India, they recommend a higher dose used in milk.
hi
i just wabt to know from where i can buy ashwagandha plant…
Hi Megha
I live in the USA and have never seen ashwaghanda the entire plant. In India you will find it. Here we have capsules, roots, pills of ashwagandha. Good luck, L.
i am 27 yr 5ft 2in and weigh 57 kgs. I wanted to know if ashwagandha with honey will help me attain my normal BMI.
Ashiyana
I would not eat honey for weight gain. It is too sweet and not meant for adding fat.
Vidari Kanda powder a yam will help you gain weight. Take an equal amount about 1/4 tsp each of powdered vidari kanda with ashwagandha and shatavari powder in water twice daily. They can make you stronger and help normalize weight. Also make sure you do not have parasites or chronic diarrhea that can cause excess weight loss.
hi
letha
i am 16 year old boy height 176 cm and weight 55 kg
i want to know should i use ashwagandha powder if my immune system is not good and it is very weak as well as i have problem of premature ejaculation and if i can use it then in what proportion should i take it and does it has any sideffects?
Siddharth
Most people can take ashwagandha without side effects. If you combine it with an equal portion of vidari kanda powder you can gain weight and strength. The yam vidari kanda is also a sexual tonic. Start with 1/4 tsp of each powder in water twice daily.
Hi letha,i’m a54years old female.I have fibromyalgia and take lyrica and i’m hypothyroid and take synthroid,i ‘ve been using ashwaganda to strengthen my adrenals and was doing well but i have been in menopause for about a year and i’m having constant hot flashes,severe itching,redness and rash on breast and vaginal area,fatigue,depression and pain increase.Thyroid tests are normal.I was thinking to add shatavari.I’ve tryed anti-depressants but only end up with bad side effects.Your opinion would be greatly appreciated.Thank you.
Hello Shelia
You can try to add an equal amount of shatavari to help balance ashwagandha. In fact, I often recommend the combination. It that does not help you to feel more comfortable you have address the hot flashes more directly with the following herbs. From Health Concerns
Three Immortals an herbal combination recommended to help balance hormones and ease menopause. If that is not enough to get rid of hot flashes add Coptis Purge Fire pills. Both herbal combination pills are made by Health Concerns. To order call 1 800 233 9355 and use my name LETHA as password. The company can not recommend or sell you herbs over the phone unless you use my password to inform them I am your herbalist who recommended them.
im very thin?….can ashwagandha root will help me in gaining weight
Mihir
I recommend ashwagandha along with vidari kanda powder; 1/4 tsp of each in water three times daily.
Thank you lethia for your quick response.I will try the shatavari+ashwagandha together.What is Three immortals,would this be more effective for menopause symptoms and safe to take with my other meds,lyrica,xanax and trazodone.I would like to go back to natural meds as before.I was having good results with them before the menopause symptoms began.
Hello Letha, I am a pitta, 26 year old female. I am a college student and have PTSD from witnessing my mother die in an accident.
I have began taking ashwagandha and so far, I like it. I would like to begin taking shatavari but I do not want to get pregnant. I am taking it to help balance female emotional woes and frustrations as well as add a new level of moistness to my reproductive area as well as deepen my experience (I am easily distractible and always on the go).
I am on the Ortho Tri Cyclen – Lo birth control pill. Will taking shatavari and the BCP at the same time keep me from getting pregnant but still help with symptoms I have begun taking it for?
Jessica
shatvari does help supply female hormones and increase moisture and alkalinity locally. That may be why it enhances fertility. Some women are too acidic to become pregnant. If you are taking a birth control pill, you can be protected against pregnancy. Many people use an equal amount of ashwagandha and shatavari as a tonic for muscles and bones. I am sorry to hear about your mother’s accident. Are you using prayer or visualization or other means of self healing? or talking therapy? Many people have found homeopathy to be very helpful to overcome grief. The remedy is very individualized and requires professional guidance. Herbs that may help to calm anxiety include shilajit and gotu kola. Good luck to you, L.
Hi Letha,
Can Ashwagandha used in depression due to sexual abuse OR incase of Precocious Puberty ?
Also is it useful in harmonal imbalance ?
(in girls)
Please suggest.
Manu
Shatavari us usually recommended for female hormones. It is the wild asparagus. Add 1/4 tsp of the powder to water once or twice between meals. If you have slow digestion, take it with a digestive remedy like trifala (AKA triphala) Ashwagandha does not affect hormones, but shatavari supports healthy female sexuality. For anxiety, consider using shilajit.
Hi letha,
I am currently on paroxtein CR 12.5mg for anxiety. After like 8 months of continous using this drug but skin has become too dry and dry hairs and dark lips. I feel it’s a side effect of this tablet but doctor days it’s not side effect. I am worried about this medicine therefor I am thinking of going for ashwagandha for my anxiety. As my body is hot and if anything hard I eat I get blood in stool. Please recommend me whether I should take ashwagandha and for bad digestive system shall I take shilajit?
Regards,
Manju
Manju
Ashwagandha is not really for anxiety. It works better for exhaustion. If you have skin dryness and blood in the stool you need a cooling herb. For example brahmi (gotu kola) or shilajit. They are calming. But do not stop taking the medical drug without telling your doctor. They can have serious side-effects when you stop taking a drug suddenly. You might feel worse. Just add some cooling foods and cooling herbs as I mentioned at the same time and talk to your doctor about the drug side-effects. Reduce or stop your hot spices and smoking if you smoke.
Hi Letha,
I am an aging ballerina (46 now) and have developed exercise-induced asthma and pretty severe anxiety associated with performing. I have two different shows coming up in the next couple weeks. I find that when I’m anxious, my muscles stop working and i feel week and depleted. Also, I have trouble getting enough oxygen as my breathing begins to clamp down like sucking through a coffee stirrer. I read about ashwagandha while researching ways to deal with these problems and I saw in one of your earlier responses that you use it with shatavari for dance class. What does shatavari do for your dance abilities and when you take Ashwagandha, do you do it right before class / performance?
Thanks so much,
Lisa
Hello Lisa
The most important thing for your energy, endurance and mood now is to improve breathing. With more oxygen in your blood you will hurt/cramp less and dance and breathe with more ease.
If you have chronic phlegmy congestion from ears, nose or throat, fibroids in breast and asthma I recommend Serramend pills from Health Concerns. It loosens phlegm and improves breathing. Take it along with Clear Air also for asthma and bronchitis.
Twice daily between meals 2 – 3 Clear Air with 1 Serramend pill
Call 1 800 233 9355 tell Health Concerns I recommended the herbs. The password to use is LETHA
If they ask you for your customer number (and you have never ordered from them before) tell them you are my client, not a professional herbalist.
You can stay with these herbs all winter to improve your vitality.
Also add health food store L carnitine 1,000mg per day for energy and recovery
Zinc 50mgs
For muscle strength (a gradual treatment) 1 – 2 capsules of ashwagandha with 1 capsule of Shilajit (for stress, anxiety)
Take heart. Pavlova danced until her last days. The herbs I recommend can protect your performance, immunity, and longevity.
http://www.natlib.govt.nz/collections/highlighted-items/anna-pavlova
best wishes, L
Boil 2 cups of milk with 3 to 5 grams of the safed musli powder, 10 grams of ashwagandha root powder, 10 grams of shatavari powder. Add a table spoon of pure honey. Is it safe?
Samer
The recipe sounds tasty. Why are you asking if it is safe? What do you fear?
The herbs – ashwagandha and shatavari are tonics for energy, moisture, and rejuvenation. They may improve muscle strength.
If the recipe gives you too much phlegm (Kapha) do not use the milk but water instead.
Hi Letha,
Only thing more amazing than the information in your blog is your commitment to it – 3 years and you are still answering the comments! I have seen blogs with hundreds of comments without any response from the author.
This encourages me to ask you regarding my situation. Briefly, I feel as if my vital/core energy has been depleted. Takes tremendous amount of effort to do routine chores. In between I do get bursts of energy and clarity but I drain out very quickly. Ashwagandha sounds promising – would you recommend? I am not particulary depressive but get stressed out quickly – I am sure I have a fragile nervous system.
Anything else that I may need to combine with Ashwagandha like Ginseng or Maca or even Ephedrine for some energy and focus? Look forward to your advise.
Regards
-irfan
(Pakistan)
Thank you, dear Irfan,for your kind words.
I feel that this blog connects me with friends. I would like to get to know you better so that I may answer your herbal questions better. There are many tonics–arjuna for the heart, ashwagandha for adrenal energy, triphala for cleansing and revitalizing
If you feel fatigued with low back ache and weak legs, then ashwgandha is a wonderful tonic for you. It improves mental and physical energy. For burn-out, stress and insomnia I recommend taking ashwagandha with an equal amount of Shilajit; For example two capsules of each twice or three times daily for several months.
If you can find it locally, you might also add L. Carnitine, which energizes the cells.
If you need to increase testosterone for muscles and sexual vitality, you might add gokshura. I am not sure whether you need cooling or warming herbs. A cooling tonic is gotu kola useful for circulation, memory, and anxiety. Amla another cooling tonic rejuvenates skin, hair, and improves vision. Amla is one of the three fruits in Triphala a good daily cleanser.
If you are interested in self-diagnosis, I recommend my book Asian Health Secrets. Looking at the tongue gives you an idea of your metabolism, energy, and functioning of internal organs.
If you simply want to take tonics for a while to boost vitality and support necessary hormones than you probably will do fine with ashwagandha and maca.
If you take tonics and have side effects then you can adjust the dose or change the tonic. If a tonic is too warming you will start to feel too warm, dehydrated, thirsty and nervous. IF a tonic is too cooling and moistening you could develop symptoms of a cold–runny nose, low energy, or diarrhea.
best wishes, L.
hi, i’m currently taking planetary herbals full spectrum ashwagandha (500mg root + 70 mg extract (25:1)). i usually take this 3-4 times a day, with triphala twice a day as well, for candida and general lack of energy. is this too high of a dosage of ashwagandha? i also take sam-e and 5-htp daily to help with pains which are likely related to fibromyalgia.
thanks so much! so great of you to personally respond to all these questions!
Hi Vinny
I do like to answer questions. You would be amazed at the number of spam I get which I discard daily..
Your herbal regime sounds good for general energy –ashwagandha, triphala, –but not for candida.
To kill the yeast I recommend adding 1 drop of organic tea tree oil to warm water daily. Drink it. Or you can brush your teeth with the oil. That kills the yeast. You have to replace the healthy bacteria with acidophilus. You can take it by mouth. If female and you have vaginal pain and dryness from the yeast, you can insert 1 capsule of acidophilus into the vagina. moisten it with aloe to insert gently. It removes yeast and discharge so be prepared for the discharge.
If you still have pain from fibromyalgia, avoid cold raw foods. Health Concerns makes a couple of useful herbal combinations for fibromyalgia pain among them are Channel Flow and AC-Q tabs.
If adrenal energy is low–backache, low thyroid function (depression) increase ashwagandha
or
Health Concerns recommends Adrenosen pills.
To order from Health Concerns you have to use my password since I am your herbalist. call 1 800 233 9355 use LETHA as password. That way you use my professional account. The company will not recommend herbs only fill orders from professionals.
Hi Letha,
I love your books and am so happy to have stumbled across your website. How would you characterize ashwagandha, shilijit and amla in chinese med terms?
For about a week now I have been oil pulling with virgin coconut oil and taking amla and maca powders in my morning smoothy and I have developed swollen painful lymph nodes in my armpits. Each day seems to bring more and this is not something I have experienced before. I am hoping this is a beneficial cleansing of some sort. Do you think it is caused by my new routine or any particular aspect of it?
Alison
Ashwagandha seems like an adrenal tonic that supports kidney qi and jing. Shilajit is a yin tonic that supports internal organs. Both are adaptogens. I often recommend using them together for balance. Amla is drying, supports the spleen because of that. It is high in tannins which can give some people with kidney/bladder issues some problems. But is generally safe and very rejuvenating. It sounds like your herbal combination is bringing out, moving emotional issues out towards the surface. The underarm is related to the heart meridian. You may feel lots calmer while this reaction goes on. I think you will feel more comfortable if you separate your herbs from eachother and do not add them to a fruit or other smoothy. For one thing it reduces the value -impact- of the herbs when mixed with foods. Instead I would add the amla with morning tea. Take ashwagandha in afternoon and shilajit a night. separate them by hours.
Eat a bitter green diet to enhance cleansing and even a couple days of diarrhea will feel clarifying for vitality.
You might mix maca with foods, not fruits however. It would be like mixing a starch-yam-maca with fruit and the fruit would cause bloating, water retention discomfort. Keep the maca separate from amla and fruit. OK?
Thanks Letha,
I will take your recommendations. I was getting some bloating and discomfort probably from the poor food combining as you suggested.
Hi Letha,
Thanks so much for taking the time to give me your feedback. I am currently taking a daily probiotic/digestive enzyme, candex at night, and a candida removal supplement which contains acidolphus. I went out and purchased tea tree oil and you suggested and have taken one drop in warm water for the last 2 days. I was a bit concerned upon googling ‘tea tree oil consumption’ and finding out that it can be dangerous in even small amounts and can cause confusion and dizziness. Is this something to be concerned about?
Thanks again!
Vinny
letha,
i am very interested in natural healing and am enjoying reading through your information on this site. thank you for your quick response, i am posting on here so others can hopefully benefit from the info i received. i’ll post my questions separately. i first started researching to help my boyfriend. he recently started with heart palpitations and is very bothered by them though he’s had many tests done and the doctors all say they are benign. the palpitations keep him up at night and he can’t ignore them. he has low blood pressure, though not what i might consider extremely low. mine has always run about 90/60 and i think his is similar. his doctor tried him on beta blockers, even though he doesn’t have high blood pressure, but they didn’t seem to help much, if at all, and he doesn’t want to be on medicine. i found information on taking magnesium, for pvc’s, and he’s been taking that though it doesn’t seem to help much. i read about ashwagandha for palpitations and that is how i came across your site. he does suffer from low back pain and mental and physical fatigue which also make me think ashwagandha would benefit him. i also learned about arjuna in this search and wondered if that might help. you told me about dan shen and i am wondering where i can purchase the powder. same for the ashwagandha. are the pill forms as good to use or are the powder forms best?
thank you so much,
chris
Chris
please see my articles at this website for dan shen. There is a link to a company that sells the powder. use the small measuring spoon that comes with the powder for 1 – 2 doses daily. That should improve your friend’s heart muscle strength. Also hawthorn is recommended for the heart and to reduce cholesterol. You can find capsules in health food stores. Your bi-polar mood swings may improve with taking crill oil or flax seen oil capsules. That is a safe, natural way to approach mood and hormonal swings. Try to find work and pleasures that you enjoy doing for yourself in order to help others. You have to feel comfort from the work yourself before you can share it.
hi again, letha,
now for some questions for me. i am also very interested in taking ashwagandha. actually, in my search i come across so many natural products that i just don’t know which would be best for me. i believe i am bipolar type 2. i had tried a few anti-depressants, with no benefit, but i also don’t want to be on medicine. luckily, my depression is fairly mild, though i know it affects my daily life. i have no motivation/drive. i’m extremely indecisive. i have never been able to figure out what i want to do with my life though i have a desire to do something good and meaningful, i just don’t know what that might be or how to get there. i have little to no libido. otherwise, i am a fairly healthy 34 year old. i try to eat well and exercise regularly. i hope you have some suggestions for me. i look forward to your response.
chris
I have some Aswaganda and Astragalus organic dried roots. I was wondering if is is okay to process these to a powder then add to water to use as a tonic? I apologize if this question was already asked, I read through most of the questions and answers but didnt see that one.
Thanks!
~pru
Hellp Pru
It is ok to use both herbs together. Making them into powder is not as easy as making a tincture. Astragalus is hard to powder. Ashwagandha already comes as powder. You might cook both in a crock pot at high heat for 3 – 4 hours to make a water extract. drink it hot or cold during the lat morning or afternoon.
Dear letha
Im new with ayurvedic products, my question is I have been feeling very nervous and sometimes with anxiety, a friend of mine said about ashwaghanda, I want to gain weight a little but I think my nerv system is not giving me the proper help, plus sometimes my stomach is doing this noises, I went to the doctor, he said everything was ok, just bad digestion sometimes, is this herb will help me gain weight on the long term and it will give me some help to fight stress
Hello Carlos
Ashwagandha is for making muscles stronger and can help rebuild nerves damaged from overwork. You might add 1/4 tsp of the powder to water daily. Also for anxiety, try gotu kola tea. It is relaxing and rejuvenating for nerves and brain.
Hi Letha,
Thanks Letha for info.
I am currently taking worry free Ayurveda which has combination of bacopa, dwarf morning glory, ashwagandha , jatamansi,perL, greater galangal, licorice, Indian tinospora . Is this combination for stress, anxiety and depression?
If not , please let me know which is best Ayurveda medicine for stress, anxiety and mild depression.
Regards,
Manju
Hi Letha,
Thanks for your response (dated Nov 9, 2011). Here in Pakistan we have a general impression that shilajit is very warm in nature (don’t know of any references) and should be taken in winters only. Anyway I got hold of some shilajit and also received organic ashwagandha root powder from mountain rose herbs. Will let you know if this this works out.
Thanks again
-irfan
Hi,Letha
I am shuchi choubey my age is 27. I am suffering from thyroid last 3 month . my weight is above 90 k.g. should i take Ashwagandha .If yes than how to take it, plz ans me.
Thanks!
Hello SHuchi
Ashwagandha is for weak muscles and fatigue. If you want to boost thyroid energy add laminaria seaweed to your diet. It tones the thyroid. Cook the seaweed, a form of kelp or take the pills. If it makes you nervous reduce the dose to be comfortable. Avoid turnips and cabbage which slow thyroid action and increase hypothyroid conditions like weight gain and depression.
Hi Letha,
I have a few questions about ashagandha. I have suffered from depression and anxiety all pretty much all my life. I have tried prescription anti depressants before with very little success. Basically i either didn’t like the way they made me feel or the one that did work “paxil” only work at such a high dosage. Unfortunately, the higher dosage also brought a ton of side effects. So it has been at least 10 years since this experience and i still suffer from depression and anxiety. I recently started taking ashagandha extract 450mg capsules. I take it at night because i do feel more relaxed. I was wondering how long will it take before i start to see any relief from my depression? Also is it safe to take ashagandha with SAMe ? I’m thinkin about taking 100 or 200 mg of SAMe as well. Will this be a problem?
Thanks,
Carla
Carla
You can combine SAMe and ashwagandha no problem. If it does not feel good, take them at different times of day. Have you tried fish oil, krill oil or flax seed oil? The healthy oils are recommended for bipolar depression and I think are nourishing and rejuvenating in general. Another thing I like to recommend is shark cartilage capsules – for increasing cartilage and defense against illness. You might take the fish oil and shark cartilage together. I have an informal theory that sensitive people who suffer pain may need stronger energy in the form of sharks, fish, snakes, and strong herbs to make them feel more vital. Good luck, L
hii letha,
im peter my age is 21 ,my hieght is 5.10 nd my weight is 52 kg, i want to gain weight ,somebudy told me to have some ayurvedic treatnment,nd suggested me to buy ashvagandha, shatavari kalva,yashtimadhu and vasand kumuskar ras,to buy oll these things will it ok for gaining weight , if its gud for gaining weight so plss tell me the way to have ol these things,nd should i buy capsules or tonic of ashvagandha……pls tell me bestt way to have these things,nd in what form i can take this ……..god blesss u
Peter
The herbs you mention for weight gain should be used as powders. Add them to water or yogurt to swallow them.
If you want to simplify you can add 1/4 tsp of powdered ashwagandha and vidari kanda to a cup of water 2 or 3 times daily. They will give you strength and help you to have a healthy weight.
thx letha ,juss want to confirm that should i add ashvagandha powder and vidari kanda together in a cup of water…..,,nd should i take it after meal or before meal,is there any sideffect of these things……??
god bless u
thx a lot
I recently started making tonics. The last few times I have taken them, I have facial flushing (am prone to rosecea). Could the ashwaganda cause a warm flushing? I have been using a 1/2teaspoon along with 1/2teaspoon of pearl powder as well as reishi mushroom powder and some superfoods (which I am use too) I would really like to continue tonics for vitality, immunity etc…but don’t want to make the wrong choses for my body. Are there any learning/teaching books, practioners you can recommend?
Thank you
Asian Health Secrets: The Complete Guide to Asian Herbal Medicine has chapter on individual diagnosis. Any serious use of herbs requires personalized choices.
http://www.amazon.com/Asian-Health-Secrets-Complete-Medicine/dp/0609801058/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1324225925&sr=1-1
hi letha,
thanx for providng such a valuable information through your blog.i am 30 years old and i want to know..can we take the combination of ashwagandha,shilajeet and gokshura to improve sexual potency..ifwecanthan how much quantity of thesecan be taken safely and pls tell also whether these herbs have any side effect or bad effect on body….thanx once again, waiting for your reply
Garry
the 3 herbs can be taken same time, or same day no problem. How much you take depends on what you want to treat. Ashwagandha is for physical and emotional/mental exhaustion (backache, low sexual vitality, poor memory.) Shilajit reduces stress and is rejuvenating for internal organs, improves sleep. Gokshura increases libido and sexual potency. You might start with an equal amount of each herb and change dose as you feel improvements. For ex. 1/4 tsp of each powder or 2 capsules of each after a meal. Do not expect to see/feel immediate results. They are tonics that repair exhaustion from illness overwork, age etc. So it take time for the body to improve. You should look and feel stronger better within a month or less.
I am suffering from disc compression and weakness…can my disc gain power and strength with the help of Ashwagandha???
Varun
Thank you for your question about ashwagandha. It is an adrenal and muscle tonic. Since it strengthens muscles and reduces lower back pain, it may help to support your lower back and possibly take some pressure off your discs. The herb does not affect the cartilage or disc directly. It supports muscles that keep the disc in the proper place. When muscles are weak the disc can pinch together too closely and cause pain.
Letha,
I am an Indian Male 31 years old. I have been losing weight gradually over the last 2 years and generally feel unhealthy lately.
My doctor says i am hypothyroid based on TSH and i have started taking synthroid 50 mcg. I have very low energy levels compared to just two years back and have low self esteem. About six months back i had low backache which recurs now and then. I do not feel like having sex nowadays and feel that i ejaculate prematurely when i do.
Kindly recommend a Herbal remedy.
Dear Kumar
Gokshura –it is a fine herb. It strengthens muscles, energy and sexuality a tonic that is easily found in India or online.
Ashwagandha is useful for backache, mental and physical fatigue, and low libido. But gokshura is a natural source of testosterone, You can use both as needed. Avoid cabbage and turnips which slow the thyroid.
best wishes for 2012.
L.
hii letha…i want to gain weight can u please suggest me some home remedy and shld i take ashwagandha in improving my body weight???
Sonu
Ashwagnadha and vidari kanda are recommended for weight gain.
Thanks a lot for replying Letha. I will try the herbs recommended by you. Can i just buy Himalaya herbal capsules from Amazon or do you recommend any other website/brand ?
Have a wonderful new year!!
regards,
Kumar
I have 2 questions.Currently taking ashwagandha gokshura and brahmi twice a day with meals.500gm each
1. Can we take detox tea or detox herbs along with the regular dosage of above herbs? Will it detox the valuable ingredients of the herbs? or both are parallel process and does not contradict.
Or should I stop my current and start with detox first.
2. Is there anyconcept of too many herbs? Like I m taking the above 3 herbs? can I add more to have benefit to other areas of body..or shall I take them first. Right now m taking all three together with gap of few mins only. Is it right? I did see alot of improvment in sleep and fatigue but very less in libido, infact feel got lesser. I take them with water/coconut in morning and at night with milk – sometimes turmeric milk, sometimes with saffron and cardomom, sometimes with ghee. I rotate milk receipies every night.
PS: Can we receive the comment notification any way? I did not receive any notification when u or any other person reply on the articles. The notification feature would really help.
I would like to add something.
Just by looking at your snap, I was sure you have been helping people alot and cherishing the work too. I m not a face reader but you do have a charming personality that takes away half of the problem. And half of the problem by your nice articles and individualised comments. Inspite of being a western native,(I m even amazed) how well you have adapted to Indian and Chinese methodology of medicines, both of which are natural healing to the body. I hope more people,even in asia, follow these treatments to have a good health.
The only things that I can give you are good wishes and big Thanks for helping us all.
regards
Hi Letha
I need to confirm 1 thing from u, i am very thin i tried many things to gain my weight but no effects in my body:(,is shatavari kalpa is gud to gain weight????????pl suggest any tonic to gain my weight.
Usha
Shatavari is very moistening and rejuvenating for women’s sexuality. It does not put on weight but does increase kapha – which is phlegm. So it is not for someone with slow digestion or a cough or phlegmy lung congestion. For that person it might feel as though they have a head cold with stuffed sinus congestion and bloated abdomen. A recommended way to gain weight is to combine ashwagandha and vidari kanda powder. They strengthen energy and balance hormones.
Dear Letha,
Pls reply on my queries posted above usha…
hi iam suffering from the belly.. one of the Ayurvedic lady dr told that to use ashvaganda to reduce the my belly,,, will it works are any other medicine plzzz inform me .. form long time iam suffering from this. iam feeling dad to go for parties and to wear the t-shirts so plz confrom me..
dheeraj
I recommend Triphala pills 3 twice daily with meals. It balances digestion and reduces belly fat because it improves health and increases elimination. IT takes a long time to gain digestive strength. Try to reduce sweet foods and eat more bitter ones and lots of tea.
best luck, L
thanks, i have used thippa theega too. madam plz say me the final step to follow me to reduce my fat belly plzzz madam…..
Currently taking ashwagandha gokshura and brahmi twice a day with meals( at night with milk).500gm each
Can we take detox tea or detox herbs or triphala along with the regular dosage of above herbs? Will it detox the valuable ingredients of the herbs? or both are parallel process and does not contradict.
Or should I stop my current and start with detox first.
Munda1
You might use Triphala in morning and lunch for detox and use the tonics during afternoon. Otherwise you can use the same herbs during the day as long as you wait 2 hrs. between cleansing and detox herbs. Triphala may help to absorb the tonics. So there really is no large problem.
thanks Letha..So shall I buy the himalayas triphala tablets or the traditional way of drinking triphala powder with water is better?
As you said I can take tonics in the afternoon, the himalayas recommends to use 500mg of each herb two times a day..so can take 2 tabs together at one time i.e. dosage of 1g for each herb ? will it harm or less effective?
Also since I m taking 3 herbs for tonics, so is there any harm if I take them at same time with interval of 15 mins or so. I donot know whether one herb reduces the effectiveness of the other.
If I add triphala too, it would be 4th herb. I hope unlike other supplements there is no issue of too many herbs.
Munda
I think very few people can tolerate the taste of triphala powder as a drink. I take the pills and crack them with my teeth and swallow with tea. It is your choice what you prefer to do. You can easily take 2 pills of 500 each together. See how the tonics affect your energy, if you start to feel too tired again in later afternoon you can take a second dose but try to avoid very stimulating herbs after 8PM. Most Asian herbal supplements combine many herbs 40 or 50 together sometimes. You can even take Triphala with other herbs. For example I take Trifala along with my heart herbs because Triphala is so very balancing and reduces water retention – a heart congestion problem. I would not worry. But Avoid take the herbs with many vitamins. Vitamins are either water or oil soluble.
Hello,
I am suffering from severe adrenal exhaustion, mood swings, brain fog, abdominal swelling, poor digestion, candida, extreme insomnia, and multiple chemical sensitivity and am working hard to be well. I take KELP and was taking iodine, but stopped that recently. Instead, I added black walnut and yesterday added Astralagus. I woke up swollen, retaining water and had a difficult time sleeping as if my cortisol levels were spiking. So in addition to the Astralagus, today I added Ashwaghanda at lunch and dinner. I took the Astralagus in the morning, and things were better. I also have parasites. Could you please help me to get better, I am struggling. I think that the iodine made my adrenals worse which, I think, is the reason for the mcs. I did notice that black walnut helped a bit with sleep and energy, I take the powder for parasites and thyroid support.
Thanks for any advice you may have.
Jean
Sounds like you have “weak spleen” issues. Cooked aduki beans without sugar are useful. To support thyroid, I recommend dulse as well as other seaweeds, it is high in potassium. I answered your other question about parasite herbs in my previous answer.
Aloe 22 and Artestatin
acidlphilus
tea tree oil
Astragaus and ashwagandha work for adrenal fatigue, not parasites. I would cleanse one part of the day and build during another part. For example cleanse in AM and take tonics in PM.
best, L
I wanted to add that I’ve done cleansing, and am doing parasite and antifungals. Black walnut and olive leaf. I have more energy with the iodine, but decided it was depleting the adrenals which was making the insomnia worse, so just added the adrenal support and am using black walnut. I’ve also had touoh and gum infections as well as dizziness. I noticed also when I took the astralagus that my bowels sped up and I passed some worms. I am ill because of mold poisoning, and my daughter is ill too.
My daughter is 15 and has bloating, insomnia, mood swings, poor cognitive function, tooth and gum problems, as well. She was an A student as is struggling, I suspect that she also has candida and parasites. Please advise what I should give her. We take calciuim/magnesium/and multivitamin. We take cod liver oil and eat whole foods only.
For parasites you need stronger herbs than the ones you mention. Periodically it is good to take broadspectum herbal anti-parasite herbs in a combination of 2 pills: Aloe 22 and Artestatin both made by Health COncerns. I take them because they are effective and comfortable. Aloe 22 is more useful for constipation and Artestatin for acute diarrhea with blood in stools. Take the dose that suits the problem, if you want to cleanse more take 3 Aloe 22 and 1 Artestatin twice or three times daily. If diarrhea is a problem increase Artestatin. To order call 1 800 233 9355 use LETHA as password. At same time for digestion you can continue with black walnut and olive leaf, but a dose that is comfortable. Continue for 3 months.
Add essential tea tree oil as mouthwash and on toe fungus
If you need further help for heart burn, bloating, a good herb to use it papaya leaf powder. Order it online google it. Add 1/4 tsp to a cup of water. It digests protein and starch, reduces indigestion.
For yeast infections and to take along with anti-worm herbs, 1 capsule by mouth of acidophilus twice daily with or between meals.
If yeast infection results in pain and sores in vagina, insert once capsule that you lubricate with aloe into the vagina about once or twice a week until internal bacteria feels comfortable again.
The above is a good cleansing routine to follow in spring and fall. During winter it is a good idea to support energy as needed. Avoid all sweets, pastries, breads, fermented foods. Green tea is ok,it is not fermented.
best, L.
Munda
I would take ashwagandha and gokshura together but take 1 or 2 pills of Brahmi in evening to help relax. Brahmi is used more often to ease anxiety and improve mind and memory. If you use more than 2 pills at a time of it the effects may be too stimulating not because of the Brahmi but because of how the nervous system works. Triphala is so balancing for all three doshas that you can take it anytime, all day.
Thank you so very much for responding. I will definitely do as you say, cleanse at one time, rebuild at another. I will order the products and take them as recommended.
Thanks again!
Letha,
Thanks for the reply.
The gokshura,ashwagandha, bhrami combination has not improved libido. I thought I would have better morning woods but this has not been the case. Anything wrong m doing? or need some checkup or these could reverse libido in some circumstances?
Munda
Here is USA we have a combination of herbs for adrenal health and libido that combines among other herbs gokshsura and rhodiola an herb useful for heart health and circulation. Circulation is key as well as adrenal strength. I also like the combination of ashwagandha with shilajit, easy to find in E. Asia. Shilajit support hormonal balance, fluids and relaxes stress and ashwagnaha builds muscle. Give youself several months to feel stronger. Use a combination of ashwagandha, shilajit, gokshura and rhodiola betel nut. I do not think you are using the wrong herbs just need to give yourself some time. Increase gokshsura if it does not make you feel too unsettled or dizzy.
can eruption of wisdom tooth decreases libido? though because of above herbs I don’t feel much weak..I used to feel week because of my previous eruptions. I even use to feel warmer, fever like situation, weak….may be because of the herbs I feel better but very less libido and weak erections and no morning woods.
Tooth troubles can strongly affect energy, and heart health. Make sure you take care of any tooth and gum infection. Tooth and gum infections are very weakening to vitality and can cause serious heart troubles. If you are taking antibiotics for the wisdom tooth or gum infection avoid using the tonic herbs. You have to focus on getting rid of the infection fast. After that is resolved, take acidophilus or yogurt lots of it to build your energy and digestion and then go back to using your tonic herbs.
Hello Letha, I love reading your post on Ashwagandha, i just started with my Himalaya product a week ago.
I started to get into some stress,mild depression and anxiety attack, and develop into a insomnia, like my brain don’t know how to shut down. It started 4 months ago. Since then i’ve trying a lot of supplements ie Omega 3, B complex, taking valerian root with herbal tea help with sleep ( sometime it works sometimes not), went to accupuncture and taking chinese herbs. I even went to a homeopath. I just desperately want to be back to normal, be able to sleep normally and easy. And I realise I have brain fog/short term memory lose, like there is nothing in my head sometimes.
I am not on any kind of drugs yet, i’m scared of taking it. Do you thing taking Ashwagandha will help my situation especially after 4 months having the problem? And is it okay if I take with combination of B complex and fish oil in the morning? What is the suggested dose you can recommend/other herb combination?
Thank you so much for all the information.
Aeda
Ashwagandha works well for mental and physical fatigue and burnout. But add other things as well like a nice relaxing warm bath, massage, sesame oil on the bottom of your feet then wear cotton socks to bed to protect your sheets. Omega 3 – especially Krill oil is very useful and safer from pollution than other fish oils.
Letha, I m not using any antibiotics..I rather use homeopathy in such cases. But this time when my bottom wisdom tooth on both sides are coming I feel better than the times I had the upper wisdom tooth coming. I have heard that bottom ones causes more problems. I think the usage of herbs might have improved my body resistence to infection and I did feel alot better, just weak libido symptoms. I do think it has a relation because if I recall my last times it greatly affected my libido. Does these erupting tooth cause permanent damage to vitality or it is just temporary till the inflammation is there? Since I m not taking antibiotics and taking tonics ( feeling better), do I still need to stop the herbs? or can continue and wait for the eruption to complete. I might ask my homeopathy doc to give me some medicine, as I have seen his wisdom tooth medical worked so good that I regretted why i did not consulted him first time I had the issue.
Munda
I do not believe there is any damage done by wisdom teeth except temporary discomfort. Your homeopath can better advise about what to take now. He can see your symptoms.
Letha, at the beginning I want to apologize for my poor English. I have a very big problems with my health – since 3 years I know that I have a Hashimoto disease, but my greatest problems are genital herpes. Because my immune system is in a really, really bad condition, I’m taking acyclovir ALL THE TIME. ALL THE TIME SINCE 3 years – and I’m taking it 5 times a day (5×400 mg of heviran). And if I don’t take my daily acyclovir pills,I have herpes’s outbreaks all the time. I’m so tired taking this medecine every day… I have depression because of that and I just don’t know what to do… Letha, does Ayurveda know some medecine which can help me with these herpes? I was thinking about chyavanprash – do you think it can help me? And second question – I know that You answered someone when he asked about Ayurveda medecines in hashimoto – you wrote wbout mushrooms – but do you think I can take chyavanprash having this illness? I read that people with hashimoto can’t take the immune boosters, but I’m still thinking about chyavanprash. Thank you very much, have a nice day!
Betty
Thank you for writing. Do not worry about your English. I understand all that you say and can sympathize with your health problems. If you have symptoms associated with Hasimoto such as fatigue, slow metabolism or goiter, I usually recommend seaweeds because they contain iodine. Kelp is good as a stimulant and can be used as a salt substitute. For herpes I would not recommend Chyavanprash. It is true the herbs and spices in it are rejuvenating, but too general to treat herpes which is a virus. The irritation, inflammation has to be stopped and Chvanprash is simply recommended to increase energy and warm the body. The sugar in in would irritate the herpes outbreak not stop it. You have to avoid irritating foods such as fish, nuts, chocolate, caffeine.
I found this article to be very helpful especially the recommendation of licorice tea and goldenseal.
http://herbalmusings.com/herbs-for-herpes.htm
Here is an article from this website and my upcoming book on pain. In in I suggest herbs for herpes:
Useful Herbs for Herpes
Andrographis, a shrub, is used in China, India and throughout subtropical and Southeast Asia. In traditional Chinese herbalism, it is used to support healthy digestive, cardiovascular and urinary systems. In Sweden, it is a used for immune support. Research has shown andrographis to be a useful anti-inflammatory for diabetes, fevers, upper respiratory tract infections, cancer-prevention and treatment, herpes, malaria, and rheumatoid arthritis. Andrographis extract calms behavior and reduces spontaneous motility in animals, and apparently peri-menopausal women. It may be useful for nervous tics. The herb improves sleep and lowers body temperature. Great for hot flashes.
Shingles (herpes zoster)
My favorite anti-bacterial, anti-viral tea for detoxifying the body, reducing feverish conditions, irritability and skin rashes is Prunella vulgaris (AKA xia ku cao in Chinese). Some herbal experts say it reduces a herpes outbreak and reduces shingles pain. It grows wild in your lawn, like a spiral of little purple flowers and round green leaves. But I buy it dried in Chinatown. The tea is tasteless, easy to brew, and feels cooling and relaxing. I especially enjoy its calming effects as a bedtime tea in Spring. Overtime it helps reduce cholesterol and improves circulation. Steep about 2 tablespoons in a tea pot and drink it warm or cool. Do not sweeten it, unless you add a pinch of stevia. You may combine prunella with dandelion herb to increase the cleansing effects.
(NOTE: If you have active herpes zoster, avoid Chinese herbal formulas that contain rehmannia (AKA shou di huang) which may aggravate an outbreak.)
Skullcap herb is a CNS depressant, useful for fever, anxiety, insomnia, and hot flashes; skullcap was originally used as a treatment for rabies because of its tranquilizing effect on the central nervous system. Clinical studies have demonstrated skullcap’s ability to improve blood flow in the brain, inhibit muscle spasms, and act as a sedative. Some alternative health practitioners use skullcap to treat symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Skullcap is used in the treatment of a wide range of nervous conditions including epilepsy, insomnia, hysteria, anxiety, delirium tremens, withdrawal from barbiturates and tranquilizers.
Caution: A medicinal infusion of skullcap is used to promote menstruation, it should not be given to pregnant women since it can induce a miscarriage, and the infusion is also used in the treatment of throat infections. The infusion is given for nervous headaches, neuralgia and in headache arising from incessant coughing, pain, and inducing sleep when necessary, without any unpleasant symptoms following. If you have never used skullcap or are very sensitive to herbs, start by adding 3 – 5 drops of the liquid extract to a cup of water and observe the results. You may feel more relaxed.
If you feel your heart thumping at your temples when tired, if you have low blood pressure and backache, you more likely need an adrenal-supportive herb instead of skullcap for recovery from illness or fatigue. For example, ashwagandha promotes muscle strength. Dan shen regulates heart action and strengthens weak heart muscles.
IS there is any side effect of ashwagandha to gain weight. I want to gain weight. please suggest me.
AMit
TO help gain weight combine ashwagandha and vidari kanda a yam. If you need to slow the thyroid action, increase cabbage and turnips in the diet.
My health is very weaknes, Please suggest for better health.
which ayuvedic powder suitable for me weight gain.
I hope you better suggest for my health.
i’m waiting your suggestion
Mohsin
Two ayurvedic herbs are useful for weight loss and to help you to gain strength. Ashwagandha and Vidari Kanda. Take 1/4 tsp. of both at the same time in water three times daily. Massage the body with sesame oil for dry skin and to help reduce stress. Good luck, LEtha
Hi Letha, I’m told by Dr. Vasant Lad and others that I am underweight due to high Pitta. (I’m super thin) I’m also suffering with Candida due to multiple rounds of antibiotics over the years. I’m lactose intolerant though so I’ve had trouble sticking with the recommendations. I notice that you recommend Ashwaganda and Vidari Kanda often for those who wish to gain weight. Do you think that might help in my situation? Also, I’ve already spent a fortune on high quality probiotics but haven’t noticed much improvement. Thanks!
P.S. I also have an abscessed gum that I haven’t been able to get rid of even with antibiotics.
Hello John
You have several problems going on at once so I will address them together. First I admire Dr. Lad and suggest that you follow his recommendations especially if he can see you in person. To improve your ability to digest and assimilate foods and help balance fluora for candida: use a high quality non-dairy acidophilus as an anal suppository once daily after evacuation. It absorbs in the gut. You can do that for several days until movements seem more normal and you have less discomfort and gurrgling. Also add 1 drop of organic tea tree oil to water, tea or coffee daily or use as toothpaste to kill yeast, bacteria.
To cool pitta and reduce stress 3 – 4 gotu kola capsules throughout the day between meals.
If you have cramps, constipation or reflux, drink aloe vera juice as needed.
For your infected gum, aside from medicines or other herbs you are using, take a pinch of neem powder, add a pinch of turmeric powder (both very bitter) mix with a drop of tea tree oil apply to the gum with a Q Tip. Allow it to remain in your mouth several hours to reduce pain.
Ashwagandha (adrenal tonic) and vidari ( hormone balancing tonic) will be useful after you get your digestion back into order.
Good luck, L.
I was curious if it is safe to smoke marijuana and take ashwagandha.
Miriam
I do not think ashwagandha and marijuana interfere with each other, but I don’t know. Marijuana is being used medically to ease nausea and pain from cancer treatments – it dulls certain brain areas and stimulates pleasure receptors in the brain.
That is why it may become addictive, we need that relaxation area. But smoking may increase risk of cancer because of heat and chemical reactions from marijuana, that’s why they are making marijuana in pills available by prescription – less heat and cancer-producing chemicals.
Ashwagandha works in an entirely different way – an adrenal tonic for fatigue, poor memory, insomnia, stress, exhaustion.
I don’t know how the two would mix. It seems that one would be an up and the other a down.
Hi Letha
I am suffering from anxiety(GAD). my symtoms are sleeplessness, weekness,constipation,gastological disorder,poor appetite, nervousness,poor memory,skin dryness,stress, exhaustion and fear and panic attacks.Every day morning i use triphala churna for constipation.
Ashwagandha will be useful for me please advice me.
Dear Rahul
Try to massage your feet with sesame oil if possible before bedtime. It may help to calm your nerves and improve dry skin.
If you can’t sleep massage a drop of sesame oil into the nose too. Ashwagandha is useful for vata – nervous exhaustion and weak muscles. It may help you to sleep better and feel stronger during the day.
Good luck, Letha
Hello Letha,
i went to an ayurvedic doctor in melbourne for treating a wart in my right foot. she gave me a cream to apply every night.
i also told her that i generally have a disturbed sleep pattern- it takes about 1 hr to fall asleep and in a total sleep of 7 hours, i wake up once or twice,and go back to sleep after 1/2 hr. i do not know if it is insomnia. she prescribed ashwagandharishtam tonic (10 ml per time with 10 ml water twice a day after meals) and brahmi capsules to be had for a month. basically, she said for the wart to heal, holistically, ashwagandha and brahmi capsules will also help to cleanse your system internally. i read in the internet that ashwagandharishtam sometimes causes hyperthyroidism. similarly, are there any side effects of brahmi capsules. i have high chloestrol (240) and high triglycerides ( 270) and use to take statins for 10 years , but have stopped it in the last 6 months and am taking herbal supplements (called bergamet). i do not smoke or drink. can u suggest if ican take ashwagandharishtam and brahmi capsules for a month for improving sleep. also, what about hyperthyroidism side effect. or, can i first try the cream for wart for a month, see how it works and then go on to ashwagandharishtam. thanks for your time and efforts.
Karthik
Here is a description of the ashwagandha syrup prescribed for you. It sounds delicious:
Although the famous herb Aswagandha is most widely known as a rejuvenative herb which gives strength and vitality, this preparation brings out Aswangandha’s considerable nervine properties. It rejuvenates the entire nervous system, nurturing, calming and clarifying.
Ingredients:Honey, Ashwagandha, Brahmin ginseng, Five flame bush, Indian madder, Chebulic myrobalan, Turmeric, Licorice, Indian ginger, Giant potato, Arjuna myrobalan, Nutgrass, Transparent woodrose, Indian stinging nettle, Sweet flag, Red plumbago, Perfumed cherry, Indian ironwood, Cinnamon, Indian cassia, Cardamom, Black pepper, Long pepper, Ginger rhizome.
Recommended use: 1-2 Tbsp./15-30 ml. twice daily.
It should calm your nerves and with brahmi it should improve memory and brain function. The formula looks balanced enough to avoid hyperthyroid problems. For reducing cholesterol and triglycerides I would also consider using arjuna daily. Add 1/4 tsp of arjuna powder to morning tea or water. It supports a healthy heart and helps prevent heart trouble and stroke. If you can get it, Chinese Pu Erh also supports digestion, provides natural statins to protect the heart and help prevent cancer. See my articles at this website on Pu Erh.
Niacin is also recommended for reducing triglycerides but some people find it irritating. Triglycerides are in found in body fat and increased by fat foods. Reduce meats, nuts, dairy – big sources of fat and also pain triggers that may keep you awake at night.
There is no problem in taking the above herbs the same day as the homeopathic remedy for warts. Is it thuja? Take the cream in Am and if possible separate it from foods by 1 – 2 hrs.
good luck, L.
Hi Letha,
I am a woman and I have been suffering from general fatigue which occurs many days (10-15) before my periods. I have been having these symptoms since 5-6 years and my solution to counter act it is to sleep more and avoid stepping out of the home during these days. I feel weak, feel hopeless (not every day, just 2-3 days before my periods.). I start getting less sleep 10-15 days before my periods, later on that turns on the fatigue, irritation and by the time my periods arrive I am exhausted.
I was suggested to take birth control pills to reduce PMS and also suggested to take antidepressants- both of which I rejected because these symptoms started 5-6 years ago after I stopped my birth control pills prescribed by my gynecologist.
I tried Himalaya Organic Ashwagandha for 20 days starting Dec 25th 2011. I was taking 1 capsule (10mg) a day. I instantly felt better and I didn’t have any of the above feelings/fatigue/weakness/irritation. I felt “Normal” the whole month. But I got my next period in 16 days as opposed to my 35 day cycle. So I stopped Ashwagandha and started taking Shatvari and my next period occurred after 30 days. So can I take Shatvari and Ashwagandha together every day? And how long can I safely continue taking these on every day basis? Is it safe to take a fish oil tablet with Ashwagandha and Shatvari?
Thanks!
Dear Sia
Thank you for the detailed and thoughtful question. Yes, I often recommend taking shatavari along with an equal amount of ashwagandha. If you need more shatavari – because of vaginal dryness, then you can increase it. Take 1/4 tsp of each between meals once or twice daily as long as it feel good and as long as you have energy and period problems. They are both excellent tonics that work well together. Take your fish oil with a meal, not dairy because fish and dairy together are too Kapha (too much phlegm) and slows digestion.
good luck, L.
hello Letha,
thanks a lot for your super-fast response, despite your busy schedule. i will take ashwagandharishtam and brahmi capsules as advised by the locel doctor here, given that it appears balanced enough not to cause hyperthyroid problems.
regards,
karthik C. Mani
Hello Letha,
Sometimes we eat heavy diet and out stomach becomes upset or bloating. In those conditions is it wise to skip the ayurvedic dose or can continue before sleep?
Munda
For balancing digestion after a heavy meal and to take regularly everyday I would take Triphala pills. It cleanses and balances the body. After a few hours after eating, then you can take ashwagandha again.
Dear Letha,
thank very much for what you wrote when I asked you for a help (I’m suffering from Hashimoto & genital herpes). My dried prunella vulgaris is on it’s way to me – I live in Poland and I have had a little problems to buy this herbal. But I bought it from some Chinese from Brooklyn and he sent it to me yesterday. He wrote me that I should cook it for a 4-5 hours and then I may keep it in the refrigerator (for a week) or I can keep it in the freezer (for 2 months). He wrote me also that I can even eat it after i’ll cook it! Is that truth, Letha? May I really eat this herbal (some soft parts of it & the seeds as well)? I’m eating chyavanprash too – I’m taking 1 teaspoon a day and making a drink with a milk. It’s really, really tasty! Since I’m taking chyavanpras I have no outbreaks – it has never happened since a really, really long time. But there’s one thing which makes me worry – since I’m taking chyavaprash, my hair begins to fall out. And I found an article, wrote by some person on his internet blog – he wrote that losing hair at the beginning of taking chyavanprash it’s natural (at the first week or even week and a half) because hair are so good nutricion that the hair roots begins tocannibalize themselves. This person wrote that this is just natural – and what do you think about it? Thank you very much and best regards!
P.S.
And Letha! Sorry that I’m disturbing you writind for the second time. I have one more problem – my hair are so damn fragile, so breakable… They’re very long and it’s very, very painful for me looking at my hair now. The process of my hair being breakable begun a few months ago. I had alywas problems with hair and now I know the cause of it was Hashimoto and low ferritine level too. Since a few months I have too low T3 level and still I have problems with growing of this level. Since about 2,5 weeks I’m using amla oil (full natural product – no parabens, no parafin etc.) so my hair looks soft and shiny, but… still so fragile, so breakable. I have high level of Fe, zinc, vit. D3 and other vitamins. But this damn T3 level… I must make it higher. And maybe I can do sth more to prevent my hair from so much breaking? Maybe should I take some ayurvedic medecine? I must say it once again – thank you very much. You’re really great, helping all these people.
Hello Betty
Hairloss is often a thyroid problem, the Hashimoto not from any herbs you are taking. Amla is a rejuvenator for hair and skin and it is a main ingredient in Chavanprash. I have never heard of hair roots eating eachother like cannibals. It sounds nuts. What might be happening is that you are making more sebum – oil at the pores and that it choking the hair root. You may need to use jojoba oil on the scalp, only a little with a very gentle massage, then wash it off. That frees the scalp of excess oil that can clog pores and it allows the hair to grow through the pores.
I am not sure what the herbalist in Brooklyn sent you. Is it prunella? Prunella looks like little bushes about the size of your little finger. It can be boiled for hours, that is the Chinese method to make a decoction. I usually just simmer a few minutes and drink it more often. But boiling it as the Chinese herbalist recommended makes a stronger drink. Do not add sugar or any sweetener. If you boil an herb for hours the medicine from it goes into the water. But some people do eat the herbs afterwards. It is up to you. I would just use it several times cooking a longer time each time. Do not worry about it. Prunella will reduce your herpes. If you take it often you may need to add a tonic such as medicinal mushrooms (shiitake, reishi) so you do not get too weak and chilled. Prunella is cooling and can slow the thyroid in hyperthyroid conditions. Be aware of your energy. If you start to feel too slow, depressed, out of breath, Take a pinch of clove powder in your tea to boost adrenal energy.
I do not know how to advise you about increasing T3 since herbs work in other ways like foods not drugs. See my advice for hair health in my book Healthy Beauty there are recipes and treatments that may help– something as simple as diluting your shampoo and applying conditioner only to the ends not the roots will help your hair to breathe.
best, L.
Thank you very much, Letha! Yes, I bought a prunella vulgaris from some Chinese but I didn’t get it yet, because he has sent it to me 2 days ago. I think I’ll have it within a week. It makes me worry that drinking prunella I can have a problems with my thyroid, I must be careful. So, you said I should add a tonic as medecinal mushrooms… I’ll do it. And there is a link to the website with an article about chyavanprash and possibility of cannabalization of the roots of the hair, maybe you’ll be interest (the article is really long and there’s only a few words about it): http://ingridnaiman.com/subscription_lists/ayurveda/chyawanprash.html
I have one more question – every day I’m taking a large doze of vitamin C (1000 or 2000 mg) – should I take it though I’m taking chyavaprash at the same time? Chyavanprash contains amla and it has so much of vitamin C too.. I’m a little afraid of overdoze this vitamin. Thank you once again! B.
P.S.
Letha, I found sth. There are a medecine mushrooms in the capsules and each 2 capsules (because I should take 2 capsules for a day)contents: Maitake (Grifola frondosa) 360mg; Shitake (Lentinus edodes) 222mg; Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) 176mg; likopen 12mg; astaksantyna 2mg. What do you think about it? Should I take it at once, from the first day I’ll start to drink prunella vulgaris tea? Thank you!
Betty
Prunella if used long term – over a week or so – can slow the thyroid. If you feel weak, slow, depressed as I mentioned take clove or another tonic. I would start with the medicinal mushrooms right away. They are a neutral tonic good for auto-immune illnesses and may improve Hashimoto. Ok to take vitamin C with chavanprash. Keep track of your thyroid enzyme levels and check with your doctor periodically about medications. They may need to be adjusted as your energy and emotions vary.
Thanks a lot! Sorry for disturbing you time after time, but I have two more questions – is this possible to drink the prunella tea all the time, I mean during a few months, or a year, or during a few years without break? And what with sun tanning? I think I rather shouldn’t sun tanning while drinking prunella & this myshrooms tonic. Thank you very much!
Thanks Letha. God Bless you!
Betty
You have to pay attention to your symptoms when using herbs. They change our energy. They are not like vitamins you can use everyday for years. If prunella (anti-inflammatory) reduces your herpes, then use it when you suspect a problem to reduce or stop an outbreak. But you also have to change your diet – fewer stimulants like coffee and chocolate and sugar because they can increase herpes. So you have to become more sensitive to your body and energy. I think there is not problem with tanning as long as you are sensible, not too extreme. There is no connection between sunshine and mushrooms – not bad reaction. I do not know if prunella makes you more sun sensitive. I doubt it.
hi
now im 22 year old and weight 57 my height is 5.10 inch and im looking very thin…
i want to gain some weight and need some fat in my body..
one thing is that im fit.
which ayurvedic medicine is preferable..
if ashwaganda is better how to use is…
is it available in medical shope.??
if any other medicines is better which is available every where give me the details and how to take dose of ashwaganda ?
thank u
Hello Kanna
As long as you are fit and healthy I would not worry too much about your weight. We in the West would consider that slim and handsome. But as a tonic for muscle strength, endurance and general health, I would recommend combining ashwagandha and shatavari because one is stimulating, supportive of adrenal health and the other moistening, rejuvenating for muscles and internal organs. You might take 1/4 tsp of each powder in water or milk once a day long term. Avoid tonics such as this if you catch a cold or flu and address those symptoms separately.
cheers, L
I am 51 year old. Can I take Ashvagandha along with vasantkusmakar ras for health tonic
Jatinder, Thank you.
I greatly value the questions that come to this website concerning Ayurveda because we learn from the questions and answers.
Here is a little information about vasantkusmakar ras for people who do not know:
http://www.madanapalas.com/vasant-kusumakar-ras-3-x-10-tablet-packs-30-tablets-p-372.html
It is useful for diabetes, as a general tonic, to help prevent frequent infections. It is also recommended as an aphrodisiac. It seems to be a very good combination to use ashvagandha and Vasantkusmakar together to tone energy, immunity and protect longevity. Baring any special problems or allergies it can be taken longterm.
best wishes, Letha
Thank you veru much, Letha! As Sia said – God bless you!
hello Letha,
I am 31 years old,with lots of mental tension,and facing a problem of harmonal imbalance,with hypo thyroid.can i take ashwagandha powder..and what shud be the dosage .
Thanks
Nidhi
Hello Nidhi
Ashwagandha works better to strengthen muscles and reduce lower back pain, memory and sleep. If you need to boost thyroid energy I recommend taking either kelp or laminaria seaweed. If you prefer pills Health Concerns makes pills called Laminaria 4. If you prefer cooking laminaria, soak a handful to clean it then simmer it for 20 min. in a little water.
L.
Dear Letha,
My herb chart:
Triphala/Amla : Morning 2 tabs 250mg. I rotate both herbs alternate days.
Zinc : Post lunch 50 mg Zinc – 2-3 times a week only.
Brahmi : Around 3-4 PM 2 tabs 250 mg
Gokshura: Around 8-9 PM 2 tabs 250 mg
Shilajit and Ashwagandha combined Tablet: 2 tabs 250mb each just before I sleep. Sometimes take with milk, else use water only.
Is there anything excessive or wrong with this chart. I have intended to follow this for 1-2 months.
But I sometimes have lose stools and little cramps(not regular). I don;t feel too much urge to excrete but I get lose around 2 times a day. Is it normal or I shall I change the diet or reduce the dose.
I fear if I reduce the dose it might not affect.
On the same side I know if we have lose stools body can not absorb the nutrients.
Please advice.
Just as a precaution I have added yogurt+black pepper to my diet especially breakfast and lunch and I drink milk with dry ginger or turmeric powder few times a week.
Munda
Your herb plan looks balanced. How is your wisdom tooth? Make sure there is no infection. If stools are too loose take ashwagandha with water not milk. Be careful of food combining. Avoid mixing fruit with protein and starch to avoid bloating and cramps. I would have dried fruit with tea between meals – laxative but will not cause bloating. Yogurt, pepper, milk with ginger or turmeric are a good fast, but slimming and laxative. So to avoid loose stools, use them with care.
If you do not already use these herb, I would add them:
Brush teeth with Vicco Vajradenti tooth powder adding neem powder. This reduces gum bleeding and swelling pain and infection. You can use these longterm.
Hi,
Thanks for the info,will surely do that.But can i still take ashwagandha,since i read some where,it is good for harmonal imbalance.
Nidhi
Nidhi
It is best to use herbs for individual problems. If you need adrenal strength, if you have fatigue, lower back ache, weak muscles, poor mental clarity and memory then ashwagandha is a good tonic for you.
L.
Thanks Letha,
I m glad to remember wisdom problem.
My homeopathic medicines has reduced the discomfort and there is no infection just have some pain while eating.
I do eat pistacho,walnut, dried apricot between the meals and drink green tea.
I m amazed you know about vicco too…:) I m currently using ayurvedic paste and it has also shown good effect.
Stools are not too loose and happens sometimes only not regularly.
I guess if I improve my digestion things would become alot better though gradually.
So if I keen on following my herb plan I hope my digestion part would also balance? I m traditionally constipation guy but outside foods sometimes cause lose stools. I m not sure it happened due to outside food or herbs.
So the day on which I get lose stools, shall I stop all herbs or still can take?
I heard even can take triphala as it balances everything and reduces lose stools too as it has harara…
Hi Letha,
I am a 24 year old guy and have been experiencing severe brain fog for the last 3 weeks.
For the entire month of January, i was under tremendous stress in my job. I was having sleepless nights. In the 1st week of Feb, i woke up one day and i just could not bear it anymore. I was in a dreamy daze. The next couple of days were horrible. I did not know what i was doing, who i was talking to etc. I finally took a break from work and have been home ever since.
The extreme brain fog has reduced to some extent, but even today i do not feel fully normal. I visited a doctor but she only recommended increasing my B-vitamin intake through supplements.
I suspect that i am a victim of severe adrenal fatigue. On a related note, i read that excess masturbation can also cause adrenal fatigue. I did a lot of it during the last few weeks to deal with the stress and that’s when i realized that it was only making the problem worse. Starting yesterday i have vowed to not engage in this activity for at least a month.
As of tomorrow, i am beginning the intake of powdered Ashwagandha.
I am really worried about this brain fog since it refuses to go away. It is unsettling me. Will Ashwagandha help relieve this?
Also, a word from you regarding the time for recovery would give me a lot of comfort.
Thank you and God bless you Letha.
Mangesh
Mangesh
A tonic such as ashwagandha can do a great deal to improve your energy and lift your spirits. IT will take time however, perhaps a few weeks. Take 1/4 of the powder or two capsules three times daily. You might also consider how your diet affects vitality. You may need a better source of protein and avoid mixing fruits and sweets with your foods. Tea is a fine stimulant for body and mind. It does not drain the body and can help ease anxiety. Also consider this: We work mentally on several levels at once. While you have brain fog, you may be working out a problem that you have at the same time. Sometimes brain fog happens when we are scattered, trying to figure out something important. Try to empty your mind for 20 minutes daily, let it rest, let the world deal with its problems. Your answer will surface and you can feel calmer knowing what you need to do.
Letha,
Many thanks for your prompt reply. Your soothing words are indeed a blessing to frightened souls like me. Thanks again.
I have a large beautiful ashwagandha plant. I know of its many benefits but really am confused on how to prepare the root so as to make a tea or tonic and am wondering also if I could use the leaves that are on it. If I need to use the root then wont I have to keep reseeding so as to have a supply of this herb?
Thank you for any suggestions.
Barbara
I would contact the beautiful and talented Rosemary Gladstar and her family who grow Asian herbs in Vermont
http://www.sagemountain.com/rosemary-gladstar.html
They can advise you about the best growing practices and directions for use of ashwagandha. I buy the dried root or more often the powder or capsules.
good luck and keep growing., L
Hy Letha
I am a 47 thin vata-pitta with the following problems: irregular period with episodes of lots of bleeding for 2-3 days, a little fibroma and a left ovary cyst. I often feel weak on the lower back (kidneys area) and in the latest 4 years I have developed osteoarthrosis to the top joints of most of the fingers but especially of the 5th fingers of both the hands.
Psycologically I have been under a lot of emotional stress especially for the latest 5 years having often had problems with my boyfriend,feelind not enough loved and cared of. Now I coming out but I feel sensitive and fragile.
Do you rekon that Ashwagandha+ Shatavary would help to stop the inflammation and maybe help to heal from the lack or loss of cartilage?
Would you suggest anything else that might help?
For how much time minimum one should take continuosly Ash+Sha to benefit from their results?
Thank you for your any suggestion
Sarita
Hello Sarita
I do not know where you live, but I will suggest a couple of things that are available in the US and online. You need to address peri-menopause. That is the year or more before you actually stop periods. It always comes with hormonal ups and downs and mood swings and irregular periods. There are a number of helpful herbs. For example From Health Concerns Three Immortals pills which help to balance hormones and make the periods easier and smoother. If you have fevers, headaches, angers, rashes, and other inflammatory symptoms you could add Coptis Purge Fire formula pills also by health concerns.
If you are in India, many of my readers who ask questions are– or if you prefer Ayurvedic herbs for menopause I recommend capsules from Himalaya called MenoCare
http://www.ayurvedicherbsdirect.com/menocare-menosim-120-ct-himalaya-p-75.html
You will be surprised how regulating hormones can affect energy and mood. The formulas I mention address your menstrual and emotional issues better than ashwagandha and shatavari is one of the ingredients in Menocare.
Hi Letha,
my husband has been prescribed ashwagandha for low sperm count along with shilajit. He was told to take both after meals( twice daily) with milk.
However I have read (in man places) that ashwagandha is more effective on an empty stomach, what do you suggest? Also, should shilajit be taken before or after meals?
Thanks
Soni
When (the best time of day) you take an herb is in part due to what you want the herb to do. Also if your stomach can tolerate taking the herbs. If ashwagandha is recommended as a muscle tonic or brain tonic or energy tonic it can be taken with or without food. If you are taking ashwagandha and shilajit three times daily, they will work well as a tonic and I would not worry about when to take them. If you find them too stimulating for energy and cause insomnia, then avoid them late at night.
Thanks for your reply Letha
Letha, please reply on my comment on February 23, 2012 at 11:49 pm
About a year ago I woke up with intense neck pain and headaches. I found out just recently that I have pinched nerves in my neck and back. I have been seeing a chiropractor for a couple weeks now to help with the pain. I am not a surgery candidate for my neck. Over the past year it has turned from just neck pain and headaches to body pain and insomnia. I feel completely worn out and exhausted. What do you recommed for me? I just bought ashwagandha today to help with the tension and insomnia.
Hello Keirsten
Ashwagandha will not directly address your neck/shoulder pain and upper back tension. For that I recommend Ease 2 pills from Health Concerns. They enhance local circulation and improve some chronic gastrointestinal problems as well. To order call 1 800 233 9355 use my name LETHA as password.
Also with that sort of pain for such a long time you may need a tonic and something to reduce stress. Gotu Kola is helpful for anxiety and circulation. You can find capsules in health food stores and take 2 twice daily or more as needed. Chiropractic and compresses may help a lot. Your chiropractor may be also to suggest some simple traction techniques to help ease the pressure on your nerves. There are also soft surgical collars and stretching devices some people use for whiplash – to stretch and curve your neck if that helps you.
good luck, L
Hi Letha,
I have bought your book Asian Health Secrets and then shared it with a good friend of mine at work who is trying to get pregnant. She was inspired by my father’s knowledge about Chinese herbal medicine and I told her that her chances of conception by consuming foods of yin nature. I even let her borrow the book to show her several chapters on the topic of Ashwagandha. After reading the book, she told me that she looked you up on Google and for some strange reason found an acupuncturist in her area (Concord, CA) who is prescribing her with a formula for the purpose of helping her conceive.
I have told my friend that I use Ashwagandha because I am into bodybuilding and it really have made a tremendous difference in my muscle strength workouts. Ever since I have read your book, not only am I a fan of Chinese medicine but also a big fan of Ayurveda medicine which I truly believe are both similar. For example, in an effort to increase my agni (digestion), I consume ghee (I spread it on toast), a cup of black beans along with some salmon for breakfast, sometimes the same for lunch and dinner I would have some rice, sauteed vegetables and some more fish. You are probably wondering why I am sticking to this strict Ayurveda diet. It is because I am so obsessive with Jing replenishment and building ojas which is critical for bodybuilding. I am taking Ashwaghanda along with shatavari for balance and some American ginseng tea on a regular basis for yin fluid replenishment. I also discovered abstaining from sex also made a tremendous difference in my mental capacity thanks to the book Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill where he talks about The Power of Sex Transmutation for Sucess in life.
Am I doing everything right, Letha? Can you recommend me other herbs that are beneficial to a person like me. I have tried Eight Treasures by Health Concerns because I couldn’t find their Restore product in stores in the Berkeley CA area. I heard that Eight Treasures, according to your book, treats anemia and also strengthens jing and chi. Am I right about this? Is Restore tablets by Health concerns available? I am asking this really important question because bodybuilders need blood to build muscle but I don’t want to build too much where I am overtaxing myself. I noticed my hands starts to get inflamed once in a while.
Thanks Letha again for all your wisdom and I will be forever promoting your wisdom of Ayurveda and Chinese medicine every where I go. I already made a couple of co-workers a big fan of yours already.
Sincerely,
Billy
Dear Billy
Thank you for your kind words about my Asian Health Secrets and work at this website.
I have been traveling so was slow to answer your comment.
Health Concerns Eight Treasres is used to “tonify Qi and blood and move circulation. It can be taken by athletes who may have blood depletion – fatigue, sallow complexion, reduced appetite, spots in front of the eyes in visual field, shortness of breath, lightheaded feeling, anemia from chronic illness, dry skin, brittle hair, and women’s menstrual problems like irregular periods. You may be taking it without really needing it.
To improve your jing, I recommend cooking a tea of equal parts – one handful each of Yin Yang Hao leaves (AKA lusty goat weed) and Tibetan goji berries. See http://gojiberry.com/
simmer the herbs in a non-metal pot of 1 qt. water for 30 min. and drink it anytime. That is a formula used in chinese hospitals for replenishing jing, bone and bone marrow.
If you are frequently thirsty, aside from american ginseng pills or tea, you might use the chinese patent remedy
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan. it is recommended for enhancing yin, for chronic backache, water retention, hypertension, diabetes, and for dry skin and chronic thirst.
Check you tongue to see if you need Yin herbs. If you do need them your tongue will look red and dry, not pale or white.
From Health Concerns I recommend to take before a workout or athletic event:
Resinall E Tabs
it treats pain, swelling, injuries, and chronic inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or long term headaches.
1 800 233 9355 the password is LETHA or order it from your healthfood store.
My new book Naturally Pain Free will come out July, 2012 and is available for pre-pub order now at amazon.com
Best of luck to you and thanks again
Letha
I read that Polycystic Ovary syndrome is caused predominantly by Kapha nature. Will taking Shatvari for PMS symptoms have adverse effect on PCOS?
Also will Ashwagandha cause increase in androgens and have adverse effects for women suffering from PCOS?
Will 1/4 teaspoon of Shatari and Ashwagandha on daily basis have adverse effect on PCOS?
Thanks!
hi.actually i had 2 injuries,one on my shoulder that is i have a partial tear on my supraspinatus tendon and 2nd on my right knee of some ligament problem,both injury occured during lifting weights..what capsules i can take and for how long
Hello Amit
To help recover from injury see http://www.modernherbshop.com they have many ointments and rubs for martial arts injuries that reduce pain, swelling from trauma. For internal us I would order Resinall E Tabs from Health Concerns recommended for pain , swelling, sprinas, fractures, broken bones etc. it promotes tissue regeneration and circulation. To order Resinall E Tabs call 1 800 233 9355 use my name LETHA as password or order it online as possible..
[…] Ashwagandha a wonderful tonic | Letha’s Asian Health SecretsOct 8, 2008 … Use them regularly until body odors, dark urine, constipation or skin blemishes are gone. Then fortify energy with a tonic. Ashwagandha, an … […]
Hi Letha,
First of all, your commitment and knowledge, both are amazing. I’m 25, aggravated Vata-Pitta type, dry, body runs too hot or too cold, sexually exhausted, suffer from reproductory inflammation, fatigue, muscle loss, take water soaked psyllium husk to maintain bowel movement.
My problem is that my body is unable to retain water(bloating) especially if i drink water empty stomach or with meals. If i dont drink it, it leads to inflammation. Even warm/hot water increases inflammation. Fever reducers like Ibuprofen have worked for me but they are not long-term solution. Should i take Triphala empty stomach with room temp water or you recommend something else? And for exhaustion, which works better with Ashwagandha, Shatavari or Vidari Kanda? I wanna take it after meals twice a day with milk, ghee, and sugar. Ok or not?
Thanks,
Jay
Hello Jay
You did not say but I am assuming from your name that you are a man, not a woman. What do you mean reproductory inflammation? prostate swelling, low semen or sperm count? or if a woman dry vagina?
Do you have pain, dryness, sores, discharge?
Either men or women can use shatavari for dryness, aging, and to increase moisture for lungs, stomach and sexual fluids. You can use shatavari with ashwagandha, I often recommend them together for improving muscle and bone loss. Vidari kanda (white yam) and shatavari (wild asparagus) are both hormonal. As a male sexual tonic you might use shatavari and gokshura (for testosterone)
Hi Letha,
Thanks for replying. I’m a male. And yes, you are right in saying that i have low sperm count and it’ll soothe if start taking ashwagandha and shatavari with milk. i also asked you about triphala. will it help in retaining water levels in the body? if not what else is recommended? i also want to ask you is it really beneficial for body to take formula of organic herbs like ashwagandha, shatavari, gokshura, vidari kanda, triphal daily? Remember that my body has Vata and Pitta as major doshas.
Letha, Some one mentioned in the comments about Oil pulling method of Ayurved. Do you believe in this method or tested by you? is it safe for general use or I would say is it effective? what are your views/
Hello Munda
what do you mean by oil pulling? I do not know the method.
please check oilpulling dot com for this method in which we gargle using sesame oil.
OK now I remember the method used by some Ayurvedic doctors and yogi – to swish sesame oil in the mouth for 15 min. to help clean teeth etc. It may be ok. I prefer to use neem powder because it feels cleaner. Sesame oil seems too sweet for me. If it works to relax you and help rejuvenate gums that is good. For loose or bleeding gums, pain, bad breath I recommend Vajradanti powder by Vicco.
Hello Letha,
Do you know which of Shatavari, Kapikachhu, Licorice, or Vidari Kanda works best with Ashwagandha for men to build muscle mass and to last longer in bed? Or can they all be used in 1/4 ratio to 1 part of Ashwagandha. Plz reply. Thanks.
Jamie
If you are in America, I would recommend buying Pyton Extra pills from Vitamin Shoppe, a combination of herbs for stamina, sexual vitality, and muscle strength. It includes tribulus (gokshura) gotu kola, artic root (rhodiola), damiana, oat straw and others for a balanced stimulating and revitalizing tonic. Otherwise, you will have to decide which herb you need more either (tonifying) ashwagandha, gokshura (source of testosterone) or (moistening) shatavari. If you mix your own tonic with those herbs start with 1/4 tsp of each in milk or water and as needed over time increase the one you need more.
Hello Letha,
I am a 28 year old female, 5 feet 6 inches, ~120 pounds. I have an issue that has complicated my life for years, esp. after age 13. I have had a musty body odor since 13 that would come and go. Of course, I showered, used various soaps, perfumes, deodorants…and soo on and so forth. After my early 20’s, it increased in its severity and duration. I take a shower, and its still present…resembling either sewage, musty, and or/fecal body odor. The odor is especially present after eating, and almost unbearable with certain foods such as eggs or candies. The odor is so severe at times, it can be detected many yards away. I read somewhere that the Ahswagandha Syrup is good for body odor. Is that true? What could you recommend? It would be sooo very appreciated if you could help me with this issue. Thanks!
Hi mina
the best natural remedy, the fastest working and safest is homeopathic silica
http://beneforce.com/informationfaq/homeopathic/silica.htm
take it as directed between meals for a couple of days.
Also be aware that the odor of garlic comes out through the pores. Try to eat more greens and laxative foods if that helps.
The homeopathic remedy is an effect detox treatment. If your tongue has a thick white coating, you can alternate homeopathic silica 6x with homeopathic Kali Mur. 6x/ The 6x refers to the dilution of the remedy, not how many times you use it daily. I would take it twice daily between meals for 3 days. Then check the results and continue if necessary for a few days. You can find homepathic remedies in most US pharmacies and health shops. See Vitamin Shoppe for example or online.
Thanks for the quick reply. I went to Vitamin Shoppe and picked Silicea 6c. The store attendant told me its 6 centennial whish is 600 dilution. I took 7 pellets (~6x dilution). I will do that twice a day and hopefully this will help. That would be a miracle! By the way, the problem is present even when I am not sweating. I have gone to Chinese herbalist and acupuncture and the same notion of detox has been recommended. However, I know it is still present so I am praying this works. I appreciate your response and will let you know the results. It actually tastes good too! Thanks again!
Dear Letha,
Thank you for being so wonderful! You inspire great confidence by your tireless, meticulous and caring responses to every question put to you. I have learnt as much from your detailed responses to questions from your readers, as from your original post on ashwagandha. Arriving at your website after a lot of searches, I feel ready to start the regimen you advise of ¼ tsp each of ashwagandha and shatavari in a little warm milk? water? at bedtime, as a general nerve and muscle tonic and immune system booster. Hopefully, it will also help me address my chronic anaemia which has so far defied solution.
However, as you yourself say, there can be very contradictory information on the internet. So, if you will forgive me, I would like to ask one question. Is Ashwagandha contraindicated in the case of an auto-immune disorder, in this case, vitiligo? i.e., Could it cause a spurt in the spread of vitiligo? Or, as I am hoping, is it instead more likely to address the basic systemic problem that led to the emergence of the vitiligo in the first place?
Let me explain. My four year old problem of vitiligo began as a single tiny skinburn spot on my two eyelids that turned white, and has since slowly spread into teeny patches on my eyelids, before one big and one small patch popped up along either collarbone. Once set in motion, I have noticed that every time I am under acute stress, or when my skin undergoes some major allergic reaction, the collarbone patches have grown in size.
My skin is my weakest link, so to say. No acne in adolescence. But I tan and scar easily, and any allergic reaction (e.g., to some massage oil/cream), strangely, happens only around my neck/collarbone area. I have been under treatment for the vitiligo (still continuing) by a competent homeopathic doctor since the first eyelid sunburn spots turned white (about 3.5 years ago); she says she needs to boost my immune system and deal with my stress, and that that will impact positively on the vitiligo. However, while the patches on the eyelids wax and wane, the more disturbing ones on my collarbones have only been growing, and although I believe in her and respect her competence, I sometimes despair for the outcome of my case.
I am a health conscious person, active and energetic, eating only organic vegetarian food (balancing veggies, fruits, nuts and seeds), practising yoga regularly, and generally conscious of the need to remain stress-free and calm. But there are times of severe emotional stress and mood swings. The onset of vitiligo almost coincided with my choice to opt out of a challenging and enjoyable professional career to provide intensive care and companionship to a beloved aged parent who is in slow terminal decline due to a rare cancer. While this is a choice that I would probably make it all over again were I called upon to do so, given my personality, the care-giving has often been a deeply stressful and draining experience, not to speak of the attendant social isolation and loss of professional ‘identity’. I remain hopeful of getting back to my own life at some point in the future, but one of my concerns is also to stave off major disfigurement in the process! (I apologise for this long story, but offer it because I know that you would appreciate knowing the linkages of my physical condition with my state of mind).
So, my final question: in the light of the above, could I start taking ¼ tsp each of ashwagandha and shatavari once a day as a regular tonic and immune system booster? Is there anything else you would suggest I take? Grateful thanks in advance for your kind attention and help.
Dear Brihada
Thank you for your careful and detailed question concerning Vitiligo. It is a common problem and the medical answers I have found are very frustrating — surgery, makeup, even tatoos! I think you are right to address the immune system because that will improve general health, energy and recovery. The problem may be hereditary however you can balance your immunity and reduce underlying inflammation. If your issue with adrenal weakness gives you other adrenal symptoms such as insomnia, backache, muscle weakness, poor memory from stress, then using ashwagandha and shatavari could be very useful for energy, muscle strength and emotional comfort. If however, you need to balance immunity for an auto-immune issue, if possible medicinal mushrooms would work as well or better. For example reishi is used to treat arthritis and multiple sclerosis – also auto-immune illnesses because of the nutrients and anti-inflammatory aspects of the mushroom. Medicinal mushroom powder can be ordered online and added daily to water. Please let me know which work better for you. I would try one treatment for a month then the other to compare. All good wishes, Letha
Thank you for responding. To clarify:
1. The vitiligo is not hereditary. From what I have been able to understand of my own body, (you are right, the medical literature is SO frustrating on the subject of this condition), it started off as a sunburn and has since got linked to stress.
2. I do not suffer from backache, poor memory, muscle weakness or chronic insomnia. No thyroid disturbances either.
3. My only chronic ‘condition’ before the vitiligo came along is a stubborn anaemia. Although i eat sensibly, my body does not seem able to metabolise the nutrients as efficiently as it should.
If you think that the ashwagandha-shatavari is something worth trying (and boosting the immune system must be desirable anyway), I am happy to go ahead. I live in India. I am not sure if the mushrooms you suggest will be available here? Could you give me some local names? That also sounds like a good thing, and an experiment of alternating the two for a trial month each sounds promising.
So sorry for being back with another question, Letha. Could you recommend one or more ayurvedic sources of folic acid and vit. B-12? I have read that these COULD positively impact on vitiligo. Also, what do you mean by “issues of adrenal weakness”? Many thanks in advance.
Hello Letha,
I am a 37 year old female and my skin does not sweat. I develope red itcy bumps when i go in hot and humid weather even for couple of minutes. And these bumps slowly subside when i come back to cool or air- conditioned room.I have this problem for last one an half year. Please suggest remedy for the same.
Many thanks!!
Hi,
I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism in Dec. 2009 after the birth of my son, April 2009. After two years of really no symptoms, unfortunately on March 3rd I had the first panic attack of my life. It sent me to the ER with me being told I was now hyper. Just had my first anti thyroid test and it suggested I had hasimoto’s because my level was elevated at 57. ( no range was given) Since then ( almost 2 months now) I have had rapid heart beat to the point I can’t sleep and depression. I am on synthroid 75mcg and was told I am still slightly hypo but normal T3. I am wondering if Ashwagandha would be safe to take with synthroid to decrease the anxiety/depression. I hate to mention to my Dr. as it seems he is all about just taking synthroid and going home. Not very understanding. Any advice would help!
Crystal
How is your cholesterol level and heart health? Have you had it checked? Heart irregularities resulting from thyroid problems often give us an irregular heart beat and anxiety. Let me know.
best, L.
Hello,
Can I use Ashwagandha together with Jiaogulan?
I am drinking Jiaogulan during whole day and I would like to add some Ashwagandha. I want to mainly support my adrenals.
Thank you.
Petr
Patr
ashwagandha and jiaogulan are OK the same day but sound as though it would be very bitter. You might add the ashwagandha to milk separately. A balanced formula is ashwagandha, shatavari in milk taken between meals.
what herbs/tonics you recommend for high blood pressure? Take medicine for a long time, but would love to switch to a natural supplement.
Prabha
If you are in India or use Ayurvedic herbs I recommend Abana (the name used in India) in the USA the herbal pill is called HeartCare. It reduces cholesterol and regulates triglycerides (fat in blood) and that helps improve blood pressure and protect blood vessels.
Hi Letha,
I am 35 years old man, type Vata. Last years I was under terrible pressure and last 2 years I am facing general anxiety (feeling of diziness when I am in public area or at work).
I am taking ashwagandha + St. Johns wort. But it is not working properly for me. I am thinking of usage ashwagandha + L-Theanine.
Is it a good combination? Or would it be better ashwagandha + 5HTP?
I want to use ashwagandha because I suspect that the root cause of my trouble could be hidden adrenal fatigue. What would you recommend me?
Thank you very much.
Hello Martin
It is probably very safe to assume that most of us have adrenal fatigue. Ashwagandha is a fine tonic that most people can use.
It should ease backache and weakness, poor memory and other adrenal issues.
For anxiety it is better to use the best tonic for what you need. 5HTP is recommended for weight loss, sweet cravings (addiction) and depression. It is often used to supplement weight loss herbs so I do not know if that is better for you.
Gotu Kola is often recommended for anxiety so if you do not have a weight/sugar problem gotu kola may be better for you.
There is natural L theanine in tea. I enjoy using a digestive pill made by Banyan Botanicals called Vata Digest. Nice to taste the hing in it and other mild flavor–cumin, black cumin (blacksee) ginger, pipali, fenugreek.
i also enjoy using black seed oil – Nigella sativa oil 1 tsp in hot green tea in morning. It is strengthening and digestive. It enhances immunity. I think with fatigue and anxiety you should also pay attention to immunity. Give youself some time to adjust to the new suggestions. You can continue with ashwagandha too. They are OK during the same day. I would take ashwandha and black seed oil in AM or OK together, but use the gotu kola separately. For example 2 capsules or a cup of gotu kola tea before evening meditation or after dinner. good luck, L.
Hi letha
I am taking ashwagandha and shatavari from 20 days and it cures my nighfall problem which I have from last 5 years.But I have also a problem of urticaria so what is the best remedy for that.
And my age is 19.Thank u very much!
Dipak
I am not sure about your condition so this general information may help:
http://www.ayurveddoctor.com/ayurvedic-treatment-for-urticaria.html
Hi. I am an acupuncturist who suffers from Adrenal deficiency, anemia and am borderline hypothyroid. I run a clinic for victims of sexual assault. They have many symptoms in common, including: anxiety, stress, hypervigilance, insomnia, low immunity, poor digestion. Would Ashwaghanda be a helpful herb for myself and these patients? If so, how often should they take it?
Thank you,
Keely
Keely
bless you and your fine work. Best of luck.
Ashwagandha is a useful herb for adrenal deficiency – poor memory, insomnia, stress, backache.
Hypervigilance sounds like hyper adrenal – and the useful herb might be gotu kola for anxiety.
Have you recommended herbal or seaweed baths for your clients. There may be healing in washing away memory with the aroma of the ocean. I like using kelp powder, but essential oil of lavender also is balancing for heart and anxiety.
I am wondering how the leaves of Ashwaganha can be used. I have started a packet of seeds and have a lot of plants. Can I dry the leaves and use it in tea?
Glosanti
I have not used ashwaganda leaves and will be interested to hear about your results. Usually we use the root, but the entire plant is healing.
hi.. i am a very thin guy..
i wanted to know that, is ashwagandha churna helpful in gaining proper weight..??
will i get into proper shape after taking it..??
please reply as fast as possible..
thank you..
Suresh
I have heard that ashwagandha and vidari kanda powder improve weight. But be sure to get checked by a health person. You may have a thyroid or parasite problem.
ok.. thanks..
and i also want to know that, my hair is getting white at the age 19..
could you please suggest me a thing like this which would recover my black hair..
and should not be very costly..
hi..
my name is jobby.. im 19 years old..
i used to masterbate since last 1 year.., and now i am suffering from sudden white hairs on my head and my body is thin comparetively..
is it due to the masturbating that i am having white hair..??
if yes, please do tell me some remedy about it, to recover my black hair.. and get back into proper shape..
please.. thanks..
Hello Jobby
I never heard of white coming resulting from that. You might take amla powder which rejuvenates hair and skin.
1/4 tsp in a little water or tea daily.
Hi Letha,
I was diagnosed with central serous retinopothy. I had it for about 5 months, gone away for 6 months, and has now returned. I found that I could take ashwagandha and schisandra to help reduce stress, (stress is believed to be a major part of cause). I donot feel overly stressed normally. Am I on the right track with this? Also do you have any suggestions for eye health, I currently take multivitamin for the eyes and lutein. There is no cure for this eye problem as of now, only lasers, what can cause permanent scars.
Kayne
I am looking into natural retinopathy treatments. If you have diabetes, treat that first. Gymnema is a fine herb for diabetic imbalance. A few people have retinopathy but no diabetes. I am one. Will cover that treatment toward the end of summer in real time section of the website.
Hello,
I am 28 yr old female, have been on some form of synthroid medication since I was 9 yrs old for hypothyroid. My thyroid is regular on the synthroid. However, I have been suffering from insomnia for years now and have more recently been under a lot of stress which has led to a reoccurring staph infection and a mild case of candida. I am on the road to recovery. Currently I am taking Brahmi, Neem leaf, and spirulina. I also purchased Ashwagandha but didn’t realize it had an effect on the thyroid at the time. I’m trying to find out if it is okay to take small amounts of Ashwagandha (maybe 2 tablets a week?) to help with my other symptoms, if I am also taking synthroid.
Any tips would be greatly appreciated.
Nikki
The staph infection is the most important thing to treat first. They can be deadly –mrsa. If it is mrsa, you need to take a sulpha drug to get rid of it, treat the yeast with yogurt by mouth and 1/4 tsp into the vagina several nights. Do not mix antibiotics with tonics like ashwagandha. Just get the infection over with. Then you can tone the thyroid with kelp (laminaria) seaweed.
thank you,
No diabetes thankfully, the cause of csr is unknown, but believed to be connected with cortisol levels from being under stress or steroids w/ cortisol. My objective is to calm my adrenal gland, even though I really dont feel overly stressed. Aside from that I am looking forward to hearing your suggestions, as I have not found much information on medicines non western for csr.
Cheers
Thank you Letha,
It is not MRSA I don’t think and it is slowly going away. I am finding iconic silver to be effective during this stage. Would you recommend against taking Ashwagandha when on thyroid medication? I will look further into your suggestion of using kelp.
I have a rather large ashwagandha plant. I would like to learn how to harvest and use it– berries, leaves, roots– without killing the plant.
Berries– I’m told they can be used as a vegetarian rennet– how??
Leaves– teas? for what effects? They taste too bad to make teas or eat them for pleasure.
Roots– how and when should they be harvested, and how are they prepared after harvesting?
Hello Kaytee
Avoid eating ashwagandha berries because they cause digestive upset. The most often used part of the plant is the dried root. Here is an article about the root’s many uses:
http://www.healthbooksummaries.com/20_Things_You_Need_to_Know_About_Ashwagandha.html
I do not know about growing it. You are lucky to have a plant. We in the west use the capsules or cook the dried root. I have not found information about the leaf tea. It may be used as an ingredient for weightloss, but try it first to see if it causes digestive upset. Avoid ashwagandha if you are pregnant or if you are taking any sort of anti anxiety medicine. The combination may be too sedating.
Dear Letha
i m really surprised seeing this forum having continuos flow of suggestion and recommdation , continuing since last many year . please do keep it up
my problem is that i m suffering from CFS ( chronic fatigue syndrome ) it is earlier also known as Neurasthia ,is there any cure in ayurveda , some good wisher recommed me ashwagandha + shatawar + safed musli in equal quantity 2 times a day ,, please do tell me ,,is it right
Vijay
I am sorry that we cannot meet because that is the best way for me to recommend herbs for chronic fatigue. The cause may be overwork, infection, poor digestion or a weak heart. If it is simple overwork the herbs you mention are very useful because they are safe and mild enough for long term use. See if your condition improved over the space of 2 weeks, if your sleep is better, muscles stronger, less pain in lower back and improved sexual energy.
best, Letha
Dear Letha
thanks alot for suggestion , can u recommed any other herb or medicine which over the period of time can be taken safely which lessen the CFS or totally cure CFS ( chronic Fatigue Syndrome ) if u i can contact u over telephone ,
actually i have tried various medicine from last 5 year,, homeopathy work to some extent ,, but i never tried Ayurvedic , , one ayurvedic physician recommeded, Ras raj ras and ekangvir RAS and some more Bhasam ,kindly suggest some herb , if u say i can contact u over telephone ,
hi
i am 24 year old, with 5′ 6” height and weight 43, i need to put on weight. is ashwaghanda churna helpful or should i combine this with shatavari ? also my monthly cycle will be fluctuating (35-45 days) will this combination help me in having proper cycle?
dips
ashwagandha and shatavari are useful for energy and hormone balance. TO gain weight ashwagandha and vidari kanda are often used.
Hi Letha,
Every winter season i suffer from severe cold and have Sinus, can you please suggest a good Ayurvedic remedy.
Thanks
KK
KK
These home remedies look interesting and useful for sinus infections:
http://india-ayurvedic.blogspot.com/2011/10/home-remedies-for-sinus-infection.html
Hi,
Please guide if usage of Ashwagandha roots & shatavari roots in equal amounts promotes breast growth.
If not, what herbs, would be helpful.
Thanks
SHal
Sorry I do not know of herbs that work for breast growth, however shatavari has many useful female hormones and may increase water retention (even in breast) during PMS.
I have been reading your posts of Ashwagandha and I am amazed by the fact that you have been replying to every thread. I have two questions. Which brand of Ashwgandha is good? I just bought Nutrigold Ashwgandha from Amazon. Also can Ashwgandha be combined with 5htp. Are there any dangerous interactions?
Thank you very much!
Anir ashwagandha may improve energy, muscles, and memory. 5HTP improves mood and reduces sugar craving. They may work OK together if they do not make you feel too nervous.
Hi I am suffering from fatty liver ( non alcoholic ).
Is it ok to consume Ashwagandha capsules as a rejuvenating tonic while I have fatty liver ?
Is it safe to consume Ashwagandha capsules daily for long periods of time say for one or two years daily ?
Thanks
Sujay
Sujay
It is best to change herbs with the seasons and with changing symptoms. So use ashwagandha when you have weak muscles, not when it makes you feel too warm and cases spasm.
Hi Letha
I came across your blog by chance as I was browsing net to find some muscle tonic for my 5.5 yr old son. Before I request you to suggest a tonic for my son , I would like to thank you for the immense help and guidance that you have provided to many on this forum. I would like to mention some key incidents about medical history of my son right from the time I conceived –
– I had undergone a X-ray examination without any protection when I was pregnant . I got my pregnancy confirmed next day.
– My son’s birth was by cesarian in full term as my fluid levels were going down
– My son got a severe episode of vomitting and diarrohea when he was 11 months and it lasted for around 15 days , resulting in extreme weakness
– At 1.3 months he was diagnosed with Hydrocele which we observed only after his first birthday and this was operated upon when he was 1.8 months.
– Since 2 yrs onwards I believe he suffered from GERD which was eventually diagnosed and treatrd ed at age of 4 . At this time it was GERD Grade 2 and treatment continued (Lanzol + lupizyme + domstal) for a yr.
– He did a lot of tip -toe walking till age of 3 , has outward gait while walking even now.
– Between 3 and 4.5 yrs he was sick almost every 20 days with viral / bacterial infections causing fever / cold/ cough / diarrohea etc
– His appetite and general health has improved after GERD though we have to restart medication when he gets any other illness like fever etc ,
– He is underweight (only 16.5 kg) at 5.5 , though height is ok ( 113 cm).
– He had a bad episode of Diarohea when he was 4.5 , again lasting 2 weeks .It was a viral diarohea and post that he had a infection in his hip joint due to which he was having leg pain and was not able to walk for around 10 days.
– He had a long episode of diarrohea this summer (when he was 5.2 mnths ) and is having rectal prolapse since then.
– He had very bad viral fever last monthwith high temp shoooting to 105 and not coming down below 101deg celc. even with medicines and sponging. Fever lasted for 7 days , in between he had loos motions and vomitng too ,had cough and cold and post fever complained of severe pain in calf muscles so was not able to walk or stand but was better in 3 days of rest.
– His pediac suggested that he is having poor muscle built and all the above appear to be muscle dysfunction of some sort . She has adviced us to consult a neurologist and we have an appointment for Sep 21.
– We are also consulting a homeopath who also felt that a common thread is running in all these illness and as of now had given him some digestive medicines.
– His father has Sever B12 deficiency and is consulting a nerologist for HNPP.
Please advice if Ashwagandha is a good tonic for my son and if so how to admister it ?Kindly also advice any other medication that you think may work for him?
Thanks so much
Ashwini.
Ashwini
First I would make sure your son has no intestinal parasite or yeast infection. They can weaken digestion and slow growth. His problems seem to be digestive. Does he eat yogurt? That might help. It is better to check with a local doctor for his condition now because it changes and a tonic may not be the right thing for him now.. Ashwagandha is usually recommended for exhaustion not diarrhea. Good luck, let me know what tests show.
Anir
Sorry don’t know about those sleep medications.
Can i take the ashwagandha after alcohol, i used to drink alcohol every night, it will give any side effects please advise , i am not interested to quit alcohol, thx
Vic
I think you can use ashwagandha and alcohol because the alcohol will take any herbs you are using to your liver.
Hi Letha
I have been unwell for roughly 14 months since visiting Thailand. Docs were very slow on the diagnosis and finally found that I had a form of rikettsia (bacterial infection from a bite). I have been unable to shake some of the symptoms and have turned to natural remedies to try and improve. Main symptoms are heart palpitations, shortness of breath, digestive problems, fatigue and feeling run down, generally tired. I have also noticed mood changed such as increased irritability, low moods and anxiety. I tried 5 htp but this didn’t seem to relax me. My herbalist seems to think I have fibromyalgia from the illness which could be the case. I have just purchased some ashwagandha and would like to know if this herb would be good for my symptoms. Also, anything else you could suggest to relieve these symptoms? It seems my body is generally over-worked and in need of a cleanse/boost to shift these symptoms!
Thanks for your time and knowledge!
Helen.
Helen
If you have a bacterial infection, you need to be treated by a specialist in immunology and infections. A tonic will not clear up the problems. The right antibiotics are required, you may need a blood test to determine the best medical treatment. Taking herbs at this point, even antibiotic herbs, may just weaken you unless they address the specific germ.
Hi Letha,
I tried calling Health Concerns and gave them the password also but they said you have to give me the name of the formulation.
Can you please email me the formulation name.
I am looking for ashwagandha and satavri.
Thanks
Munish
Hello Munish
ashwagandha and satavari are Ayurvedic herbs (India) and can be sold by a number of companies, including Himalaya herb company.
[…] Ashwagandha a wonderful tonic | Asian Health Secrets If he is sensitive to spices, alcohol, or any stimulating foods and herbs a better tonic for him might be cordyceps – a medicinal mushroom capsule. It reduces liver . to 1/4 cup of milk. It makes muscles and bones feel strong and improves sleep. Hi Pinky. I have not heard of or used ashwagandha leaves, usually only the root as an energy tonic, The root is not for weight loss. For healthy weight loss see the diet according to your energy type in the book. FEED YOUR TIGER. Reply ↓ […]
Hello, I am 53 year old female.I had hysterectomy 2 years back.I am overweight nearly 78 kgs .Even little exertion makes me so tired,and I am not able to travel or lead active life.Tiredness leads in to severe body pains, and back pain.at that time to cope up, I over eat,lot of sugary and salty things,and eventually my weight increases.I am not able to do exercise or walking for more than 20 minutes.I used to be over active till my mid forties, but I developed disc problem, followed by periods problem and what not every thing.I want to be as active as any 53 year old healthy female.My weakness is I do take day time nap after lunch.I am a pure vegetarian.While I was browsing through the net about aswagandha, I found this site.Please help with suitable herbs to regain my energy.Thanks.God bless you
Dear Bhavani
It seems you should first address your low energy and pain. Ashwagandha may be very helpful for you if you have no large inflammation problems like fever or hot palms and soles of the feet. Even if you need to balance ashwagandha you can take it with shatavari. Add 1/4 tsp of each in a little water twice daily. They may help your muscle strength. For sugary addictions, I would also add gymnema sylvestra. The leaves are used in India, but you can find pills. It protects the pancreas against diabetes. Take gymnema before meals.
Try to eat more bitter greens and tea that also helps with weight loss. See my book Feed Your Tiger and see the diets recommended in the book for Dragons and Bears.
good luck, L
Hello like so many others stumbled apon your’e blog .Im a 41 yr old woman been fairly healthy happy most of my life .3yrs ago i suffered with a panic attack ,due to a series of close friends dying , was told PTS….I couldnt sleep for 3 days as i was in a pure panic state …Since then i have suffered on an off with insomnia ,im generally anxiouse at night which effects my sleep .Last yr i didnt sleep for a week thought i was going to lose it all together forgot how to go to sleep so bizarre .Went to docs got sleeping tabs but that was just a short term solution
So then went to a homeopath an i have had great results from it ,But recently it started again last two weeks an im experiencing anxiety through the day .A friend sugg Ashwagandha so i started taking it today ,i poss gonna change remedies too ,Im also interested in the chinese medicines i seem to carry a bit of water retention get bloated easily ,i pretty active an do Iyengar yoga ,walking jogging to stay healthy ,A friend of mine that has done some chinese herbal training reckons my anxiety an sleep prob stem from kidney an spleen diffenciency? Any sugg found youre blog very intresting an informative
Kelly
Please see my book Feed Your Tiger and tell me, I think you sound like a Dragon. If you crave junk foods, comfort foods and find it hard to lose weight and stay emotionally balance, then you will benefit from the “Dragon Diet” in that book.
Hi,
I have read about Aswagandha powder in your articles.. Need to know which is better – powder made out of aswagandha leaves (or)powder made out of aswagandha roots…
Soundar…
Soundar
we usually see ashwagandha root powder used as a muscle and adrenal tonic
Dear,
Is Kava Kava better than ashwagandha for mental health?
By the way, ashwagandha is available but Kava Kava is not.
I want to reduce anxiety at any cost, because due to that now I am diabetic patient.
Anupam Roy
Kava kava is controlled in some areas. Anxiety is a complex problem and using an herb may not be the entire answer. You may have to try yoga, dietary changes avoiding caffeine, and meditation as well as reducing hot spices and sugary foods. Ashwagandha is a fine tonic for people who are exhausted, but there may be better remedies for anxiety. For example homeopathic aconite. Check with a local homeopathic specialist to find the right answer for you.
Im 20 yrs male i want to know about ashwagandha powder i brought it but i didnt take till now. im afraiding it will effect on my sex . this will do weak . I want to know of it effetcs & defects my weight is 50 kg . . i want to make my muscles & my body. so , i want to know every thing abt this my height is 5 “5” & also i want to gain my height so , plz i humble request you to mail me on my mail id abt this my email id is mohd.irfan_30@yahoo.com.
thanking you,
Best regard
Mohd irfan
Mohd irfan
For weight gain, Ayurvedic doctors often recommend ashwagandha and vidari kanda powder an equal dose of each in milk, twice daily.
I am postmenopausal and still have hot flashes which affects my sleep. I fast fall asleep but I wake up after 10 minutes (because of hot flashes) and find difficult to fall back sleep. Does Aswagandha combined with maca help? If so, what dose should I take? Thank you in advance.
Anna Maria
Anna Maria
Ashwagandha may be too warming for you if hot flashes are so severe. First give up for now caffeine – coffee, black tea and chocolate. use cooling herbs such as coptis (huang lian), skullcap, or to help balance hormones Three Immortals made by Health COncern recommended for hot flashes, hot palms and soles, back pain, migraine, irritability, constipation and break through bleeding.
I have been taking ashwagandha for panic attacks / social anxiety for one week. I am taking 1/2 of 300 mg tablet every 4 hours. It does make me switch off my mind better but makes me jittery which adds to my anxiety. Should I combine this with another herb? I was going to try lemon balm as well, would this help or do I need to try something completely different?
Dotty
Can you isolate the sort of situations that give you panic attacks? It may be fear or reduce breathing or another physical problem. Ashwagandha is an adrenal tonic for physical and mental burnout, more than for fear or shyness. I would see a trained homeopathic specialist for a consultation to get a better idea of what may be making you anxious. If you need a nerve tonic to improve clarity and memory and rejuvenate the nervous system, then I recommend gotu kola capsules for a smooth steady daytime energy. But to address phobias and anxiety, I would recommend a homeopath. In NYC I recommend Christopher Phillips, a classic homeopath in practice on upper E. Side.
Letha,
My sister (37 yr.s) is suffering from depression and insomnia from past 1yr. due to family problems, to the extent that she used to faint for hours. All her CT scan, blood, ECG reports are normal. Doctors say that is has depression. Can she take Ashwagandha? Also she is very obsessive regarding her kid’s studies.
Adi
If possible have your sister take Agar 35 a Tibetan pill widely used for anxiety and depression. see http://www.gojiberry.com for the link to Tibetan doctors and medicine.
Hi Letha,
I have two qtns:
1) Once we started to have the Ashwagandha, in how many months we can start to see the results?
2) Can you suggest where can I buy “shatavari” powder in USA?
Thanks,
Chandru
Chandru
How long you need ashwagandha depends upon how weak your muscles are, your fatigue and nervousness. Use it while it feels good. Shatavari can be found online or in East Indian food/herb shops.
Hi Letha,
I am 50 years old and currently taking 0.5 mg risperidone everyday for anxiety disorder.
Recently I started taking Turmeric Force(new chapter) for pain in the neck, shoulder and hand.
Turmeric Force helped me lessen my pain. But it makes me nervous and my anxiety level increases and causes sleep disorder.
Should I take Ashwagandha with risperidone and turmeric to relieve the anxiety. Is there any side effects with these supplements with risperidone.
I also take fish oil, vitamin D3, GNC mega men 50 plus and magnesium citrate.
Please reply.
Thank you for your great work.
Thanks,
Shan
shan
do you have carpal tunnel syndrome? Pain and numbness in palm, first 4 fingers, and wrist up to shoulder? If so, take B6 as much as 200 mg daily with lots of liquid B12, and wear a wrist brace day and night for 2 weeks. reducing pain can help ease anxiety. For general anti-anxiety treatment, homeopathic gelsemium 30C once or twice between meals for a couple of days until calmer, best,L
Hello Letha, I am a 47 year old female, 140 lbs and 5 ft. 2.
I have recently started taking ashwagandha at bedtime as I find it makes me too tired during the day to function at work. I use it to balance my blood sugar as it drops each time I eat, regardless of what I eat. I avoid caffeine and sweets and stick with protein, vegetables, soups and whole grain bread. I’m guessing my adrenals are not functioning well after many years of stress.
Ashwaghanda works great so far but I don’t like how tired it makes me feel. I am using a tincture, and about 2.5 ml per night which is half the recommended dose. Any suggestions?
Diana
If you are still 140 lbs. and 5ft 2, it might be a better idea to address weight loss to improve energy. See Feed Your Tiger to find out the foods you over-eat or are allergic to. Ashwagandha will support adrenal energy, but it will make you sleep first if you need that the most.
Hello Letha, thank you for your advise. I have another question for you.
My daughter, age 15 suffers from hot flashes (mostly around the time of period), low energy which keeps her from participating in sports. She also has bone pain (frequently). Things were much worse (more digestive problems) and improved on a gluten-free diet, which she has been following for 3 years. She is generally a happy person . She is 5 ft 8 and about 170 lbs. She practices yoga once a week. She would like to have more energy, get rid of the pain and balance hormones. Is ashwaganda a good herb for her?
Diana
About your daughter, hot flashes at 15 sounds like a hormone imbalance or an overly spicy diet and inflammatory habits like smoking. If that is not the case, she ought to use moistening cooling herbs to increase blood production. For example black cherry concentrate in water as a source of vegetarian iron. If the problem continues, she might have her hormones checked or blood sugar checked to make sure she is not pre-diabetic.
Hi Letha,
I suffer from severe social anxiety. When I’m at home I’m completely fine, but when I go out I have no control over what I’m doing or how I’m behaving. Can you please suggest some completely herbal supplements and herbal teas which have very minimal side effects?
Thanks,
Susan
Susan
In a crowd do you feel afraid? Weakened? or sad? I recommend checking with a homeopathic specialist in your area. There are useful homeopathic remedies that work for phobias and anxiety. Herbs work better to correct conditions of weakness or low immunity, not intense emotions. Best, L
Hi Letha,
I’ve been reading with much interest all the information and comments about ashwagandha.
I have been diagnosed with pyroluria which is a blood disorder where nutrients (zinc, b6,omega 6) are not absorbed into the bloodstream. This deficiency results in fatigue and a low tolerance to stress and anxiety.
I also have a neck injury from 2002 and aggravated again in 2009. If I over-stretch the neck or sleep in an awkward position I have a temporary fit. It starts with teeth-chattering and then continues to other joints and I shake for about 20 minutes. I’ve been to see a neurologist and it’s not epilepsy. He prescribed Inderal which I’ve never taken because of the side-effects and because of the infrequent nature of the fits.
I take large amounts of vitamins as advised by my doctor to combat the pyroluria. I was wondering if you think ashwagandha or other herbs might help?
Thanks for taking the time to educate and inform through your website.
Regards,
David
David
ashwagandha is primarily useful for adrenal energy and muscle strength. For nerves I would recommend instead gotu kola, but start with a low dose such as 50 mgs daily to see if you tolerate it.
You might have to wear a neck brace or get spine adjustments to normalize circulation in the neck and head.
I am sixty two years old, I have breast benign calcifications paining, can I take ashwagandha and satavari churna both at bed time to cure from the pain, now I am having shoulder pain also, p,ease tell what I should take.
Rema
if you have benign tumors or high calcification, I would avoid tonic herbs now and stress cleansing, anti-fibroid herbs to prevent spread of the problem. I would stress aloe, frankincense, myrrh, and medicinal anticancer mushrooms such as reishi.
HI Letha..
Thank you very much.I am using ashwagangha (Himalayan drugs)Oh my God , I cant explain..I am soooo energetic, happy , mostly pain free.what I can say, I am feeling 10 years younger.But one thing I am not getting sound sleep,but I am doing very well.Some times I feel the lack of sound sleep.Can I use Brahmi for sleep.Please let me know .thanks again
Bhavani
Hi – I just started taking Himalaya brand of Ashwagandha. I have two questions.
q1. When should I take it? Before meal/After meal/All at once or divided in multiple doses.
q2. Any contradictions if I take it together with CO Q10.
Thanks!!!!!!!
Anir
hii…
i am of 20 years,f
i am just 5.0 ft
could you please help me up how can i increase my height please???????
Zoya
If possible in your area where you live try to find someone who does acupuncture. When I was working in a chinese hospital in Shanghai I saw kids treated with acupuncture on the head in order to improve growth and development. Being 5 feet is not abnormal or from sickness, it may be heredity, but acupuncture can help to regulate all aspects of health so you can attain your best wellness and potential.
Hi Letha,
I’m 33 and was told to take Ashwagandha to help my PMS because I would get very emotional, as well as Shatavari and Shilajit (is it okay to take all of them together)? I’m concerned because on the Ashwagandha bottle, it states that it is for women who are coping with post menopausal symptoms, can I still take this as I noticed my “emotions” are a lot more stable and I feel better… I just don’t want it to mess with my body as my husband and I would like to have children in the next year or so. Also, do you recommend any other herbs I should take for general health and well being? Could you also please share some recommendations for my husband as well?
Thank you for your help and time. I do appreciate it.
God bless.
PS. If it’s okay for me to continue taking Ashwagandha, Shatavari and Shilajit (and any other herbs you recommend for my husband and I), I’d like to purchase them in large quantities in the powder form; how many grams should we take of each daily, and what brands do you suggest are the best (organic)? Thank you!
Mrs. R.
For emotional upset, hyperemotions and frequent crying, shortness of breath and water retention – I recommend homeopathic pulsatilla 6X for you. It has been used to enhance fertility for women who may have water retention and hormonal issues. It is safe especially improves mood and breathing. Take it only when needed for a period of time that it is effective.
You can continue with ashwagandha, shatavari and shilajet as needed. It may also improve pregnancy by strenthening muscles and easing tensions. Continue with small regular dose such as 1/4 tsp powder twice daily with water or milk. For pills I recommend Himalaya products.
Hi Letha,
I have a couple of questions. I have been diagnosed with very mild PCOS. Ive been advised that simple weightloss will correct the issue. In any case I was researching online and I have started capsules of ashwagandha every morning and shatavari every night. Ive also started yoga and walks. We have been trying to concieve since a couple of months. My husband is overweight and has a very low sperm count. The current count is about 0.4million per ml. I have started him on Himalaya Herbals spemen which contains SALABMISRI KOKILAKSHA (ASTERACENTH LONGIFOLIA)VANYA AHU (LACTUCA SCARIOLA)KAPIKACHCHHU VRIDDADARU (ARGYREIA SPECIOSA) GOKSURA JEEVANTI (DREGIA VOLUBILIS) SHAILEYAM (PARMELIA PERLATE)
He is also taking ashwagandha at night. Should he start taking shatavari too? Please advise we are really keen on conceiving ASAP. What else can he do??
Aside from this we also take wheatgrass twice a day.
AJTTC
HEllo. I do not advise shatavari for your husband. It works better for women to rejuvenate sexual organs. He can take shilajet to reduce stress. But the combination you mention from Himalaya sounds good. For weight loss see my book Feed Your Tiger – it can help with eating addictions and weight loss according to body type. good luck, L
Hi Letha,
I suffer from severe social anxiety and have been taking himalaya ashwagandha capsules for a month now. For how long should I take it to start seeing the complete benefits?
Thanks and regards,
Susan
Susan
To reduce stress, I would add or use instead shilajit, recommended to improve sleep and reduce internal organ stress. The results will vary depending upon type and degree of stress but you will feel the difference if you use it for several months.
Hi I an non diabetic but have burning sensation in hands and legs from today using Ashwagandha capsules is it fine… 2 in the morning and 2 at night.. Thanks Giri
Girish
ashwagandha may be stimulating circulation for you. See if the burning sensation continues. You can also add shilajit along with the ashwagandha.
i was wondering if i can take shatavari and ashwaghanda root together and if so, what would be the recommended dosages of these two and would this cause any interactions if im also taking vitex on a daily basis?
thank you
Wendy
my usual recommended dose for ashwagandha and shatavari powder taken together is 1/4 tsp each in water or milk 1 – 2 times daily. They should not interfere with vitex.
I’m 27 and suffering from overactive bladder. A urologist I was seeing had me try 3 different prescription meds that did not help, and the side effects were undesireable. I believe some of my problem is anxiety-related. Have you heard anyone with overactive bladder benefitting from taking Ashwagandha?
Thanks for your time.
Lauren
I have not heard of using ashwagandha for overactive bladder because it is basically an adrenal tonic. To strengthen muscles that control urination I have advised thuja tincture, available in US at some homeopathic sources. Google it for sources. the usual dose is 3 drops per day. I would try that first. Then if you still have lower backache, fatigue, poor energy and memory, then use ashwagandha.
I have very weak muscles, I tire easily and have a vata/pitta constitution, would like to know what is the best combination of ayurvedic herbal
infusions to have to remedy this.
Seema
for weak muscles I like the combination of ashwagandha and shatavari 1/4 tsp each in milk twice daily. also sources of calcium (green vegetables and milk) and vitamin D3 to help support muscles health.
Dear Sir,
My sperm count is very low, my friend (He is yoga teacher) suggest me to take
1. Aswagandha, 2. Shatawar, white musli, 4. Seeds of Konch.
Here i want to know that above herbs are useful for me? If yes, May i use these herbs with honey?
dear sakhawat hussain
it is better to use the tonics you mention ashwagandha etc. with milk not honey because honey is warming and affects the lungs whereas milk is a mild nourishing tonic for internal organs and fluids.
where i live I can find a combination of ASHWAGANDHA+GOTUKOLA POWDER.
how should i take it to get the strongest benefits from this two herbs?
i like the vodka system, but it is for ashwaganda, dont know if it works for gotu kola.
thanks
David
Hi i have problem of 2 days period shortly. I dont want zero period. I am still young of 33 years old. How to help period blood to 7 days? I think my tummy weak n cold. Advise me!
Yuko
Do you have pain with the period? Is it thin and watery blood? To simply increase blood flow and increase blood production Chinese herbal doctors recommend tang kuei but I do not know if you can find chinese herbs where you are. First Make sure your shortened period is not because of fibroid in uterus. You may simply be blood deficient from stress or illness. If that is the only reason, then a blood tonic like tang Kuei is OK. A good pill for nervous women with PMS – depression, irregular period and blood deficiency is called Xiao Yao Wan in chinese herb shops. If you cannot get chinese herbs, there may be foods that increase blood like prune and black cherries.
Hello sir, i am rajat ,my weight is 52 kg and age 20 years……….so how can i gain weight ….can i use ashwaganda powder in milk ….
if i use this……..till how much time i use ?
Rajat
Make sure you do not have intestinal parasites because you could be losing weight from that. Ashwagandha will make you feel better, stronger and it will work within the time you need. I cannot tell you how long to take it because it depends on how you feel. To gain weight take equal amounts of ashwagandha and vidari kanda in milk twice daily. Increase healthy oils and cooked foods in the diet and do sesame oil body massage.
I have been taking 1 Ashwagandha capsule in the am for a few days to help with stress management and to keep calm. I’m very happy with the results. I feel more calm, happy, and think more clearly with it.
I’m wondering if Ashwagandha powder has been helpful for children with ADHD. My 6 year old son has ADHD. He is very hyperactive, impulsive and has difficulty paying attention and following directions.. He was prescribed 5-10 mg Aderall XR, which is helpful for him, but there are negative side effects such as moodiness and aggression.
Everything I’ve read about Ashwagandha seems to indicate it will help him with his behavior. Please advise if I should give it to my son and what dose I should try.
Thank you,
Holly
Hello Holly
I am not sure whether ashwagandha will improve ADHD but it certainly will not hurt your son. I have found that eliminating irritating foods like sugar, soda pop, and possibly wheat will improve hyperactivity. Ashwaghandha is a good safe tonic for fatigue, low back ache and poor memory in adults. For kids, use 1/2 the recommended amount. Best, L
Hi Letha,
I am 58 year old female post menopause and had a total hysterectomy in 2006. I’ve been on premarin .625 since the hysterectomy as I had severe hot flashes/night sweats prior to the hyster. Wanting to go off premarin, I started taking Shatavari about 10 days. Taking in tablet form 500mg in am and pm. Increased to 1000mg am and 500 mg pm yesterday due to vaginal dryness and some hot flashes. I’m finding that I’m having trouble sleeping. I used to be a very sound sleeper and now my mind races all night – I sleep, but not soundly. Thinking about adding 500 mg Ashwaganda, perhaps both am and pm. Any advice? Thanks
Sara
for insomnia try gotu kola during the day – 500 mgs twice and at night prunella tea to cool and detox the body. best, L
Hi, I am suffering from ED and seminal leakage, and its very severe now , that low back pain and loss of sleep and nightfall occurs very frequently.
the next day of masturbation will be exhausted and in complete tried. i need to get cured…please suggest.
Siva
ashwagandha and shilajit can help you feel stronger and calmer, take a dose that works for you, for ex. 1/2 tsp ashwagandha powder with 2 shilajit capsules twice daily for 2 months.
Hi Letha,
I have problem of over masturbation due to which I feel General debility, so how can I improve it with help of Ashwgandha?
and how much time it will take?
Mohit
ashwagandha like any adrenal tonic will take the time it needs to help you feel stronger. There is no set amount of time, it depends upon your health and habits.
I am 60 year old female post menopause. My husband want to sexual enjoyment with me. But I have no sex. .Tiredness leads in to severe body pains, and back pain.Please which herbal medicine help me to overcome my sexual problem.
I am 60 year old female post menopause. My husband try to sexual enjoy with me. But I have no sex. Plz tell me which herbal medicine help to overcome my sexual problem.
Hello Sandhya
If you are in or near India or want to order the herb online find Shatavari it is a form of wild asparagus powder in pills or as churna (powder) add 1/4 tsp of the powder to water twice daily between meals and it rejuvenates the female sexual area. It can increase body weight so do not mix it with food. The problem of mature ladies after menopause is that the vagina become more fragile, thin and feels like it can break. So the herb is moistening and rejuvenates the tissue itself. Drink the herb and it goes where it is needed. Also if you have a yeast problem, in the USA we call it candida, them put 1/4 tsp of real, unflavored yogurt into the vagina to grow more healthy bacteria and kill the yeast.
Hi , My child is 3 years old, When she was born, she was only 1.4 kg, later doctor identified she was having medium VSD(hole in heart), she was not gaining weight properly, until 6 months old, she was only 2 kg, Apollo Heart doctor told us, hole in heart is not major cause to weight loss. so they have taken other tests and confirmed that she is ok, but low gaining weight is unknown. Now she is 3.2 years,she is only 7 kg, She is more active and always playing, Doctor is advised me to go for hormone injection therapy for weight gain. I was afraid to take that, is any one can advise me on this. Is ashwagandha will help to gain weight naturally.?
I have noticed the weight gain of my child by approximate 80 to 100 grams in 3 months time.
Hi , this is krishna, forget to mention in my last comment that , my child heart problem VSD is closed automatically when she was 2.8 years old and completely normal in terms of heart problem, but weight gaining is not happening.. last march 14th she was 7.1 kg, today i have checked the weight, still she is 7.1. no weight gain for last 2 months…
Om Krishna
I have heard that using ashwagandha and vidari kanda the root powder can increase healthy weight. You might add them to yogurt or milk for your little one. Good luck, L
hi,
there are advertisements that ashwagandha used for 3 months can reduce 13kg of weight. Is it true. As i was reading ur site i found that it is of no use. Is it just a false statement or does it really hael. being in a profession i dnt get time for exercise nor i ve good food habits. Shuld i give it a try. if possible can u give a reply on my email too.
thanks
raj
ashwagandha is not meant for weight loss. It is a tonic that improves muscles, energy and memory because it supports adrenal health. If you want to lose weight you need herbs that are more draining, cleansing like bitter gourd, cassia tora linn., more tea less animal fat and sweets.
Hi,
I have been experiencing an unusual amount of fatigue over the last month. After doing some bloodwork, my naturopath has told me that my adrenal glands are in need of support. She recommended a low dose glandular thyroid, although I within normal range to help with the fatigue and she suggested DHEA for my adrenals. however after doing some research, I found that it would not be advised for someone who has had an estrogen driven cancer. I had ovarian cancer 5 yrs ago. I am currently cancer free but was advised by my oncologist to stay away from all hormones. Would Ashwagandha be safe for me to take? I have not been able to find anything about it in relation to hormone driven cancers. If it is safe, how much would you recommend? I weigh 105 lbs and am 61 yrs old. Thank you for any guidance you can provide.
Susie
Ashwagandha is not hormonal, it is in the same botanical family as tomato though it does not resemble it. You can take ashwagandha for adrenal health. Avoid coffee (estrogenic) and too much chocolate which has caffeine. Avoid shatavari which is hormonal. There are chinese herbal pills useful for adrenal health but I would have to know more about your condition. I will have Skype later in the summer for video consultations. Please see my page at Facebook where I bring readers up to date nearly daily. All best, L
My wife age 39 was operated for pitutary tumar 6 years back since then she does not have her periods. She was on OCP for 8months having premarin .625mg twice one year back . After eight months she developed fibrocystic breasts. Do u recommend combination of ashwagandha n shatavari for her. Please suggest
Many thanks
Kapil
Kapil
It is better for reducing fibroids and lumps and lymph congestion to use guggul capsules 3 – 6 daily or Trifala guggul pills with meals for internal cleansing.
Thanks Letha!
How long would you recommend?
Hi, my name is Paankhi Agarwal. i am 22+ yrs old and my weight is 66. i want to loose weight. pls suggest me the right way to eat ashwagandha leaves for loosing weight.
Ashwagandha is a tonic for fatigue and poor memory, not for weight loss. See my book feed your tiger for diet advice.
I am perimenopausal and for several years have insomnia. I sleep well but then wake at 2, 3, or 4am and can’t go back to sleep. I started taking Ashwagandha yesterday for the first time (I woke tonight at 2:30am by the way). I’m wondering: should I take one or two doses a day? What times should I take it to promote deep sleep without daytime fatigue (I’ve had to take a nap daily for years)? Also, I take several supplements and vitamins. Should I be concerned about keeping Ashwagandha separate from other supplements or can they be taken together? Thank you.
Heidi
Better to take ashwagandha during morning and afternoon, not with tea or coffee because they are diuretic and will help remove other tonic herbs like ashwagandha
hi ! i am 28 yrs male. can i take divya ashwagandha powder ( baba ramdev) and divya shilajit powder ( baba ramdev) together with milk 2 times a day for improving sexual power and growth of reproductive system ? for how long i have to take this ? does it provide stamina and build muscle ?
Yash
Yes, a good herbal combination for long term use as needed. Ashwagandha improves muscle strength, nerve health and memory, shilajit reduces stress. The capsules are easier to take than shilajit powder for the taste.
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