Aswagandha (Withania somnifera) is a wonder herb with multiple medicinal properties. Aswagandha is a stress reliever and is used in treating senile dysfunctions. Its effect on controlling the effects of anxiety, depression, phobias, alcoholic paranoia, schizophrenia etc is clinically established by different tests.

The Malayalam name of Aswagandha is Amukkura (amukkira or amikkira). The term aswagandha refers to its characteristic smell that resembles the smell of a horse (aswa means horse and gandha is smell). Powdered roots and leaves and root extracts are usable parts.

Known as natural relief for stress and strain, Aswagandha is almost as famous in Indian Ayurvedic Treatments (http://www.ayuryogashram.com/) as Shilajit. Aswagandha relieves stress, boosts immunity, relaxes nerves, helps in muscle building, is a tonic, and acts as an aphrodisiac. Aswagandha is called an adaptogen because of its adaptogenic properties.

Aswagandha is known for its restoring capabilities that nourish both mind and body tissues. Aswagandha relives stress, anxiety, depression and is useful in the treatment of insomnia.

The working of aswagandha is basically toning body tissues including nerve cells and muscles. It thus helps in avoiding exhaustion, memory loss, physical weakness, etc.

Aswagandha is useful in treating inflammatory diseases, including arthritis. Aswagandha has aphrodisiac properties and is a nutritional supplement. Aswagandha fights erectile dysfunction, lack of virility and sex drive, loss of stamina etc. Women with sterility problems are directed to use a decotion of asvagandha, milk and ghee. An aswagandha preparation with licorice, sathavari and vidari promotes lactation in nursing women. It relieves vaginal pain and other pains caused due to infections.

Aswagandha leaves primarily have helminthic properties. It kills intestinal worms and parasites. It is used in medicines used to treat hypertension. Aswagandha’s direct influence on high blood pressure is not established, yet it has soothing effect on nerves and brain. The soothing effect also helps a person take normal sleep.

Breathing disorders are also treated with aswagandha. Aswagandha Ghrita, Ayurvedic ghee is highly nutritional and improves the health condition of physically weak children. It is also a no-side-effect nutrition supplement for body builders. A mixture of Indian gooseberry, licorice and aswagandha improves eye-sight. One has to take this mixture for about three months to see considerable benefits

Is this herb widely grown and where can I access it, I really prefer to use natural things to heal my body instead of pills and stuff like that. Can it be found in health stores?