The fruit is rich in protein, and high in potassium and other minerals such as zinc and iron. The fruit is a brain tonic, alterative, emollient, antiseptic, stimulant, expectorant, mildly laxative, cholagogue and possesses aphrodisiac properties. Because the fruit is similar in shape and appearance to a human brain, it has traditionally been believed that eating it would help to improve concentration and memory. Useful in sexual debility.

The withanolides, similar to the body’s own steroid hormones, inhibit the growth of cancer cells. The herb may be of use in chronic inflammatory diseases such as lupus

and rheumatoid arthritis, and as a cancer-protective. It also helps recovery from chronic illness. Its alkaloids showed relaxant and antispasmodic effects against several spasmogens on intestinal, uterine, bronchial, tracheal and blood vascular muscles.

Ashwagandha enjoys the reputation in the West as an aphrodisiac, a use supported by a recent study in which more than 70% of men reported increased libido and sexual function after taking the herb. It is therefore an excellent remedy for infertility and helps in increasing the sense of well-being and improves sexual performance and is also useful in spermatorrhoea. It is recommended for erectile dysfunction and seminal debility. In fact, in Sanskrit the name means “like a horse”. It is increasingly known as ‘Indian Ginseng’ as its actions and uses are in many ways similar to those of Chinese Ginseng. It is also useful in dyspepsia, loss of appetite, senile debility, loss of muscular energy and leucorrhoea. Increases breast-milk production. Restores normal vitality after a long-term illness or stress.