Depression is a mood disorder characterized by feelings of despair, sadness, anger and hopelessness. Severe depression, more commonly known as major depression, is typically defined as an episode that lasts for at least two weeks but that tends to continue for 20 weeks. It can be treated, usually by combining anti-depressant drugs with psychotherapy. Herbs, including ashwagandha, might also help to improve symptoms, although evidence to prove this is limited. Do not use ashwagandha in place of medical treatments and don't attempt to treat severe depression by yourself.
Properties and Potential Benefits
Ashwagandha, also known Withania somnifera or Indian ginseng, is used in traditional Indian medicine to treat a number of conditions including gastrointestinal disorders, stress, rheumatoid arthritis, pain and diabetes. It is also sometimes used to alleviate depression. It contains a number of active compounds including alkaloids, steroidal lactones, saponins and withanolides which, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, collectively confer this herb's activity.
Administration
Ashwagandha is traditionally administered as a liquid tincture, made by boiling 1 g to 2 g of ashwagandha root in milk or water for up to 20 minutes. It is usually taken three times daily. However, this dosage is only intended as a general guideline. Check with your doctor or a qualified herbalist that it is right for you.
Effectiveness
Clinical trials evaluating ashwagandha's efficacy as a treatment for depression are lacking, so it is difficult to say whether it might be beneficial for patients with severe depression. The results of a study published in the December 2000 issue of "Phytomedicine" show that ashwagandha exhibits antidepressant effects comparable to the prescription treatment imipramine. However, the study was carried out in rats, not in humans with depression. Studies are needed to confirm these effects in people.
Safety Considerations
Ashwagandha is likely safe, but findings from safety studies have not been reported, according to Mississippi Baptist Health Systems. Avoid this herb if you an overactive thyroid as it might stimulate the production of thyroid hormone. Do not use ashwagandha if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have liver disease. Check with your doctor that it is safe for you to use ashwagandha alongside any medicines you are currently taking.
