Winter Cherry, or Ashwagandha Root, is among the most prominent herbal preparations used in Ayurveda, a holistic system of medicine that originated in India. The root of this small evergreen shrub is primarily recognized for its adaptogenic properties, meaning it naturally increases the body’s resistance to physical and emotional stress.
Practitioners of Ayurveda traditionally prescribe Winter Cherry to promote gentle relaxation and emotional balance. In clinical studies, Winter Cherry has been shown to provide positive support for:

• Focus, attention span, concentration, memory, mental sharpness and other healthy cognitive functions
• Mental or physical fatigue caused by emotional stress
• Depressed mood and mild to moderate mood changes caused by everyday stress
• Occasional nervousness, nervous tension and anxiety
• Healthy immune system function

Research has shown that Winter Cherry is a safe, natural sedative that produces the most noticeable benefits following daily use for two to six weeks.

Studies indicate that one of Winter Cherry’s components, Withaferin-A, stimulates Acetylcholine neurotransmitter pathways in the brain. This process is thought to enhance memory and other healthy cognitive processes. Scientists have yet to identify the specific components of Winter Cherry that support the immune system and other regulatory body systems. It is believed that the active Glycowithanolides, compounds derived from the plant, work synergistically to alleviate occasional nervousness, nervous tension, anxiety, depressed mood and mild to moderate mood changes caused by everyday stress.

Winter Cherry has been identified in clinical analysis as an adaptogen, which means that it increases the body’s resistance to a wide range of chemical, biological and physical stressors. Scientists explain that Winter Cherry likely affects multiple body systems to promote emotional wellbeing, physical endurance and mental sharpness.

Winter Cherry maintains an excellent safety profile when used as directed. A daily dose of 50 to 250 milligrams is recommended to provide positive support for occasional nervousness, nervous tension, anxiety, depressed mood or mild to moderate mood changes caused by everyday stress.

Side effects are rare and have been documented as mild in clinical studies. They may include gastrointestinal discomfort. In the event that you experience an adverse reaction, discontinue use of this herb. Winter Cherry does not cause withdrawal or discontinuation effects.

Clinical study data on children and Winter Cherry is limited. Winter Cherry should not be administered without the supervision of a professional healthcare provider.

Taking Winter Cherry in combination with prescription medications such as benzodiazepines, SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) or SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors) may cause drowsiness. If you are taking a prescription medication, it is recommended that you consult with your prescribing doctor before making any changes or additions to your current treatment plan.

Consult with your healthcare provider before beginning a wellness plan that includes dietary supplements like Winter Cherry.

• Do not take Winter Cherry if you are pregnant or nursing
• Do not take Winter Cherry if you are currently taking a prescription MAOI
• Do not take Winter Cherry if you are currently taking a protease inhibitor for HIV/AIDS
• Do not operate vehicles or heavy machinery until you know how Winter Cherry affects you