What is Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha commonly known as Indian ginseng or winter cherry is an evergreen shrub that grows in Asia and Africa. This herb has become an important part of Ayurveda for centuries. An Ayurvedic system is a form of alternative medicine which is based on ancient Indian natural healing approaches. Ashwagandha has hundreds of medicinal properties which make it one the most important and widely used herbs, not only in Indian, but also in the world. Many studies have found that it works well in improving mental health and boosting energy levels. Other studies claim that it is useful in cancer and Alzheimer's disease. Ashwagandha roots or leaves are mainly used for the treatment and management of different health conditions. This article will help you in understanding why ashwagandha has become a popular herb, how it works, its scientifically proven benefits, and the possible risk associated with its daily use.
How does Ashwagandha work?
Withania Somnifera is a botanical name of Ashwagandha. Ashwagandha helps in promoting a healthy nervous and reproductive system. It is the most powerful adaptogen herb that improves mental health to cope with stress and anxiety. Ashwagandha increases body capacity to fight against foreign bodies thus boosting overall immunity. It has antioxidant properties which help protect cells from free radicals.
Top 7 Incredible Health Benefits of Ashwagandha
Hundreds of studies have been done on the health benefits of Ashwagandha. These studies have suggested that this herb is beneficial for several health conditions. Here is the list of the top 7 health benefits of Ashwagandha which are scientifically proven.
1. Reduce stress, calm an anxious mind: In the modern world, the hectic routines and increasing responsibilities have made stress and anxiety a common condition among the population. It is important to incorporate a herb that not only nourishes your mental health but also helps you to sleep better, so you can kick start your day with great energy. Ashwagandha is one of the most popular herbs that take care of your mental health. Ashwagandha balances the levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. It is an adaptogen herb and reduces stress-related anxiety. Balancing the levels of cortisol, significantly helps people who are suffering from stress, anxiety, and even depression. Ashwagandha calms an anxious mind thus improving the quality of sleep. One study has found that it is beneficial in treating insomnia.
2. Improves memory, concentration & focus: One of the many benefits of ashwagandha is that it can improve your memory. It can most certainly help you to improve both immediate memory and general memory. Ashwagandha is proven to increase attention and concentration span in certain populations as it boosts the information accessing speed. Ashwagandha intake can improve the cognitive functioning of the brain resulting in high focus. So, if you want to improve your mental health, trying ashwagandha and introducing it into your diet will be a great decision for you.
3. Significantly improves Male Fertility and Boost Testosterone Levels: Ashwagandha is said to increase the testosterone levels in men suffering from infertility, as men with higher stress levels have low sperm count ashwagandha lowers stress levels and increases the testosterone levels in man. According to a study, ashwagandha improves sperm quality and decreases stress levels.
4. Possess great Anti-inflammatory properties: According to one study, 12ml of ashwagandha extraction can increase the level of immune cells resulting in lowered inflammation and fighting infections in the body. Ashwagandha contains antioxidants which help in reducing inflammation by protecting the body cells from damage caused by various subjects. Chronic inflammation can be reduced using ashwagandha as it can reduce C- reactive protein by 36 percent. There is still much research needed to find more about ashwagandha's anti-inflammatory properties but there is enough evidence for you to start with a small dose of ashwagandha and see changes in your body.5
5. Work as an Immunity booster: Ashwagandha is rich in biologically active substances such as amino acids, peptides, and nucleic acids. These are known for boosting immunity in the human body. It can be used to decrease blood sugar levels, hypertension, and cholesterol.
6. Sugar Levels and Ashwagandha: A compound called withaferin A (WA) present in ashwagandha have antidiabetic properties that can help your body cells to take in glucose from the bloodstream. Studies show that it can increase insulin levels in the body resulting in lowered sugar levels. Some studies even show that ashwagandha may have an effect on cortisol which regulates blood sugar levels.
7. Muscles Building: Improves Athletic Performance: Ashwagandha helps in building muscles and decreases cholesterol levels. Ashwagandha is used as an athletic supplement. For ages, it is used to increase strength and boost energy levels. If you love to work out and want more muscles, then ashwagandha is the perfect supplement for you. Some studies have found that people who consume ashwagandha get significant muscle gain in terms of strength and size. It also lowers body fat and overall muscle damage.
Ashwagandha Forms: Powder, Elixir, Gummies, and Capsules
The word Ashwagandha comes from Sanskrit which means “smell of the horse”. This refers to its ability to increase strength and its different smells. Ashwagandha is widely available in powder and elixir forms. However, because of its smell and bitter taste, it is hard to take in such forms. Capsules and Gummies are always the best forms to consume ashwagandha. You can easily find ashwagandha capsules in local health stores or pharmacies at affordable prices. These capsules and pills mask the unpleasant taste of ashwagandha thus making it easy to consume. You can find pure organic ashwagandha capsules at https://www.my-balance.net/products/ashwagandha.
How much ashwagandha should I take?
Ashwagandha is well-tolerated even at higher doses. However, it is always recommended by healthcare experts to start with small doses. The doses of ashwagandha range from 300 mg to 5000 mg. The daily intake of doses depends on the health condition and the tolerance level of your body. Always talk to your doctor or pharmacist to adjust your ashwagandha dose for specific conditions.
It is always desirable that everyone should consult their healthcare expert before taking any ashwagandha supplements.
Ashwagandha supplements: Which supplement is the best on the market
When it comes to improving your mental and reproductive health, ashwagandha supplements are the best in the world of adaptogens. There are hundreds of ashwagandha supplements available on the market and it is pretty hard to choose the best one. So, when choosing an ashwagandha supplement always look for these things:
- Pure and certified organic
- Antibiotic Free
- Gluten free and Non GMO
- Vegan Friendly
- Made in an FDA-registered Facility
My balance Nutrisentials https://www.my-balance.net/ is one the most premium shops to get pure organic supplements. They offer the best ashwagandha supplement which is 100% organic and made in an FDA-registered facility. Each capsule contains 1300 mg of organic ashwagandha and 10 mg of organic black pepper. A bottle contains 60 veggie capsules, take two capsules daily before your meal for better results.
References
- ASHWAGANDHA: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews. (n.d.). WebMD. Retrieved August 3, 2022, from https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-953/ashwagandha
- 9 Proven Health Benefits of Ashwagandha. (n.d.). Healthline. Retrieved August 3, 2022, from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/ashwagandha#3.-May-reduce-symptoms-of-some-mental-health-conditions
- An Overview on Ashwagandha: A Rasayana (Rejuvenator) of Ayurveda. (n.d.). NCBI. Retrieved August 3, 2022, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3252722/
- 6 Possible Ashwagandha Side Effects - Health Guide. (n.d.). Ro.co. Retrieved August 3, 2022, from https://ro.co/health-guide/ashwagandha-side-effects/
- Wilson, D. R. (n.d.). Ashwagandha: Health benefits, side effects, and how to use. Medical News Today. Retrieved August 3, 2022, from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/318407#how-to-use-it
"These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.”
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