What is it? Facts about Ashwagandha.
Ashwagandha is a rejuvenating herb used in Ayurvedic Medicine. Ayurveda is a holistic alternative form of medicine originating from India. It is around 5,000 years old. It focuses on natural remedies and wellness. Targeting the mind, body, and spirit.
In Ayurveda, Ashwagandha is deemed to be one of the key herbs. Also recognizable under other names such as Indian Ginseng or Withania Somnifera. It derives from the Ashwagandha plant which mainly grows in dry regions such as Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, India, Africa, and China.
The name “Ashwagandha” originates from the Sanskrit language meaning – Ashwa – “horse” and Gandha – “smell”.
Legend states the root causes it to have a powerful smell like a horse and upon consumption; the strength of a stallion is gained.
Benefits of Ashwagandha:
1. Benefits of Ashwagandha for anxiety and depression:
Ashwagandha contains anxiolytic properties that are similar to that of the drug lorazepam. According to an animal study, both ashwagandha and lorazepam reduced anxiety in the brain of the animal model. Ashwagandha also exhibits antidepressant properties. This indicates that ashwagandha is potent medicine for depression and anxiety.
2. Benefits of ashwagandha for arthritis:
Ashwagandha contains anti-arthritic properties that are widely accepted and reported. Ashwagandha relieves pain by soothing the nervous system. In an experimental study, patients were given a formula containing ashwagandha. This herbal formulation reduced the severity of pain and disability.
3. Benefits of ashwagandha for cognition:
Ashwagandha is a popular Ayurvedic Rasayana and belongs to medhyarasayanas, a sub-group of rasayanas. Medhya means mental/intellectual ability. Ashwagandha is used to enhance memory and intelligence. This ability of ashwagandha to enhance cognition is best observed in children with compromised memory and old age.
4. Benefits of ashwagandha for stress:
The circulatory system and cardiovascular health are adversely affected due to mental stress. Stress also affects the body’s antioxidant defense system. Ashwagandha helps the body adapt to stress. It is also effective in improving mental and physical health.
5. Benefits of ashwagandha for pain:
In a study, treatment with an aqueous extract of ashwagandha proved to establish a significant increase in pain threshold compared to that of placebo proving ashwagandha to be an analgesic agent.
6. Benefits of ashwagandha for sexual performance:
The root extract of ashwagandha is known to manage sexual weakness, performance anxiety in men, and erectile dysfunction. It is also reported to improve diminished sexual desire in women. Ashwagandha root extract can be helpful in the management of female sexual dysfunction.
7. Other benefits of ashwagandha:
Ashwagandha can be used to deal with problems related to sleep and contains sleep-inducing properties. It might also help one to fall asleep faster and help have an improved sleep quality.
What Part helps what? Uses of Ashwagandha.
Ashwagandha Roots- menopause, mood, memory loss, libido, arthritis, Alzheimer’s, reduces the chance of cancer, aging, high blood sugar, anxiety, high blood pressure, and many more.
Ashwagandha Leaves- weight loss, metabolism, joint pain, skin, wounds, and hair.
Also, this herb has been given to underweight children in fortified milk like a formula to help them gain weight.
How to Take Ashwagandha?
You can take Ashwagandha in many forms such as tablets, liquid, and powder. As well as using the leaves in tea. Be careful though on how much you take, make sure you do your research prior to consumption.
Precautions to Take with Ashwagandha:
Ashwagandha must be avoided in some conditions like:
Pregnancy
Breastfeeding
Autoimmune diseases
Recent surgery or an upcoming surgical procedure
Thyroid disorders
Side Effects of Ashwagandha:
Several sources indicate pregnant women should avoid taking it as it can induce abortion. As well as causing early menstruation. However, on the contrary, other sources have said it’s ok for pregnant women to take as some do in India. If you are pregnant consult with a medical expert before taking.
Excessive consumption can contribute to diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. Pay attention to the guidelines before taking them.
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