Indian Ginseng

Indian Ginseng Overview

Ginseng comes in four varieties and people who are unaware of the various varieties of ginseng stumble upon unexpected results. The Indian variety of Ginseng is the Withania Somnifera. In India, it is called ‘Ashwagandha’ and is widely cultivated all over India and in parts of the Middle East. This hardy, perennial bush reaches about 120cms in height and has bitter-flavored leaves and yellow flowers.

Traditional Use of Indian Ginseng 

Indian ginseng is famed for its medicinal properties which include aphrodisiac, sedative, astringent, diuretic, anti-inflammatory and immune enhancer actions. Probably this is the reason why Indian ginseng is regarded with high respect in Ayurveda. One of its most important uses includes enhancing and boosting the male libido. The word ‘Ashwagandha’ means ‘power of the stallion’. Thus it has been used traditionally to cure impotence and infertility. Additionally, W. Somnifera has also been used to treat debility, premature ageing, and inflammations. Although considered less powerful than the American ginseng, Indian ginseng is easier to grow.

The term ‘Somnifera’ refers to the mildly sedative action of the Indian ginseng which causes it to induce deep sleep. For more than 2,000 years this variety of ginseng has been used as a general tonic for its purifying effect. It enhances the power of the body’s immune system. Additionally, it aids digestion thus helping to stimulate the appetite. Ginseng is generally considered to have the ability to lower blood cholesterol levels. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, Indian ginseng is used to treat mild cases of cough, cold, multiple sclerosis, gout, arthritis and fevers. Additionally, it is also used to treat Alzheimer’s although the American variety is supposed to be more effective for this purpose.

Indian Ginseng Combining with other Herbs 

Indian ginseng has been mixed with Gingko and gotu kola to make a potent tonic that aids memory improvement. This combination seems to help mental health by fighting memory loss, depression and severe nervous agitation. It promotes clear thinking. Traditionally, Indian ginseng has also been used to treat cancer. The strong adoptogen action of the plant fights stress and promotes a feeling of well-being.

Indian Ginseng Compared to American Ginseng 

The Indian variety of Ginseng is considered to be warm and has a stronger effect on the flow of ‘Qi’ in the body. The average consumer who picks up any variety of ginseng from the aisles in the drug store may not realize the particular effect of that particular variety of ginseng. While American Ginseng nourishes the ‘Yin’, it cannot help people who are suffering from coldness of the body systems. According to some naturalists, Asian ginseng can be more stimulating than the American varieties. However, the Indian Ginseng is gentle in its action and can even be used to help children.

Ginseng is usually classified under the broad category of ‘adaptogens’- which means that they are agents that help the body fight stress. But there are subtle differences in the effect produced by the different species. For instance, American ginseng has cooling properties while Indian ginseng is considered warm and Siberian ginseng is considered to be the best to treat problems of the immune system. The particular characteristics of Indian ginseng make it ideal for recuperating from radiation therapy and from flu-like conditions.