What Is Ashwagandha Used for Today?
Modern herbalists classify ashwagandha as an adaptogen, a substance said to increase the body’s ability to withstand stress of all types. (See the article on Ginseng for more information on adaptogens.) However, the evidence for an adaptogenic effect is limited to test tube and animal studies. 3,4,6,7,9-13 Other proposed uses of ashwagandha are based on even weaker evidence, including: preventing cancer, 1,2,14-17improving immunity , 8,18enhancing mental function , 19,20 and combating anxiety and depression . 21 Some traditional uses of ashwagandha are also invoked today, such as enhancing sexual function in men , increasing fertility in men or women , aiding sleep, and enhancing sports performance ; however, there is no supporting scientific evidence for these uses.
