Did you know?
Ashwagandha has been used as a Rasayana for more than 6000 years and in modern science has an inhibitory effect of about 49% on the formation of cancer cells.
Ashwagandha is a medicinal herb that is widely used by medical experts for treating various diseases. Its therapeutic usage has been helping people in the successful management of chronic health conditions such as asthma, blood sugar, insomnia, depression, etc. since time immemorial. Not only does it improve your physical strength, but also enhances mental abilities.
Several research studies also report that medicinal plants help in the treatment of about 80% of patients. Ashwagandha is one such herb that provides numerous health benefits and cures serious medical conditions. It is known as a rasayana herb in Ayurveda and can be found throughout India.
Let’s have a comprehensive look at its potential health benefits backed by medical science:
Therapeutic benefits of Ashwagandha
Present in Southeast Asia and African Regions, Ashwagandha is a natural herb that works wonders for your physiological as well as neuroendocrine systems. The reason for its high popularity can be attributed to its easy availability and economical value.
It is an adaptogen that eases anxiety, helps in fighting against physical and mental trauma, boosts the immunity and well-being of an individual.
In Sanskrit, Ashwagandha means, “horse’s smell”, arising from its root that further helps in building up strength.
Also known as Withania Somnifera, it improves sexual vitality to a great extent.
Some naturalists also call it by the name of Indian ginseng or winter cherry because of its widespread use in Ayurveda.
Its fresh roots are boiled in milk to get rid of dirt and heavy metals and for the effective treatment of critical ailments.
Treats chronic stress and anxiety
Ashwagandha is one of the essential components of geriatric tonics found in the Indian Medicine systems. Its life-enhancing and restorative properties help in recovering against mental anguish and stress.
Ashwagandha extract reduces stress levels and elevates a person’s mood. Somnifera, which refers to “ sleep-inducing “ in Latin, has sedative elements that soothe the mind.
In a 60-day study in 64 people with chronic stress, those in the group that build up with ashwagandha reported a 69% reduction in anxiety and insomnia, on average, compared with 11% in the placebo group.
It improves cognitive function and decreases the extremity of stress by channeling the chemical signals in the brain.
Prevents Cardiovascular diseases
No matter whether it is consumed in powdered form or taken as a pill, many clinical studies depict that it enhances heart health, including:
Maintaining cholesterol levels
Lowering blood glucose
Relieving chest pain
Controlling high blood pressure
Ashwagandha powder, if added to the daily diet, prevents heart diseases for maintaining a healthy way of life.
Anti-cancer effects
Ashwagandha hampers the growth of tumor cells. It has the potential to inhibit the development of cancer cells in the lungs, colon, human breast, and central nervous system. It works as a chemotherapeutic agent that obstructs tumor growth in cancer patients.
In one study, the chemopreventive effect was seen in mice when given ashwagandha extract before or during exposure to the skin cancer- causing agent. The extract protected the mice because of its antioxidant elements.
Anti-aging
Some studies suggest Ashwagandha rejuvenates your skin cells and makes your skin supple and soft. It enhances the elasticity of the skin that will always make you look young.
In a clinical study, Ashwagandha was given to 101 males, at a dosage of 3 gms daily for one year. It was noted that there was a considerable rise in red blood cells, haemoglobin and hair melanin.
It shows that the intake of Ashwagandha for men and women has rejuvenating properties that make your skin clear and glowing.
Reduces depression
The antidepressant effect of ashwagandha has been observed in many surveys conducted in medical science. It works as an anti- stress adaptogen that reduces your anxiety and depression to a certain level.
If you feel depressed in your everyday life, it is safe to consume Ashwagandha pills or capsules but only after consulting with your doctor.
Nutripath Ashwagandha promotes testosterone levels and sexual health. Because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, it has the potential to fight against free radicals.
The use of Ashwagandha for men increases energy, vigor, semen and cell development.
One study depicted that men who consumed this medicinal plant produced better sperm. 14% of their partners got pregnant after 3 months of dosage.
Ashwagandha is also believed to be effective in the treatment of arthritis, stroke, brain dysfunction, inflammation, Alzheimer’s disease, triglyceride levels, etc.
Consumption of Ashwagandha
There are no fixed rules when it comes to consuming ashwagandha. Some studies suggest taking 250-600 mg per day to see reduced anxiety levels.
1 Ashwagandha capsule can be taken with warm milk or water after meals twice a day
Take ¼- ½ teaspoon of Ashwagandha powder (churna) with honey or milk as prescribed by the doctor.
Possible side-effects
Small to medium doses will not have any negative impact on your health. But, if you take Ashwagandha in large quantities it can possibly lead to diarrhea, nausea, upset stomach and vomiting.
The Last word
By and large, Ashwagandha has a wide range of health benefits. It largely helps restrain fatigue, bone weakness and impotency. Its antimicrobial and antifungal activity can prevent bacterial infections. Also, boost your immunity and regulate your energy levels with its remarkable medicinal value for healthy living.
