Ashwagandha, popularly known as Indian ginseng, is an evergreen shrub found in India, Africa, and some parts of the Middle East. It is being used in Ayurvedic medicines to increase energy, reduce inflammation and improve overall health.
Ashwagandha is the most talked-about adaptogen that supports the body’s ability to respond to physical and emotional stress. Its sedative effects are helpful for people who get tensed easily.
Ashwagandha capsules are taken as a dietary supplement to receive the maximum amount of benefits. It is considered to be an ingredient that can extend the lifespan of people and keep them healthy.
Ashwagandha leaves have analgesic and antioxidant properties. They are used to treat symptoms of cough, cold and chronic pain.
Ashwagandha flowers have diuretic and aphrodisiac properties which improve fertility and treat kidney stones. The seeds have anthelmintic properties and help in preventing and treating parasitic infections and infectious diseases.
The roots are the most crucial parts of the Ashwagandha plant, and the root is powdered to make the Ashwagandha churna. Their properties include anti-inflammatory, anthelmintic, aphrodisiac, antioxidant, diuretic, and anti-depressant.
Benefits of Ashwagandha
Reduces stress and anxiety
Ashwagandha has calming effects on anxiety symptoms, and it helps to lower the levels of cortisol. The adrenal glands start to produce cortisol in response to stress. It also has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. It is also effective in managing sleep-related problems. The herb can boost mental health and improve the quality of life.
Treats arthritis
Ashwagandha is a pain reliever because it prevents pain from traveling down the central nervous system. It is effective in treating rheumatoid arthritis by significantly reducing knee and joint pain. It does not cause any gastrointestinal disturbances like therapeutic medicines.
Heart health
Ashwagandha improves heart health by significantly reducing cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood. Cholesterol is reduced by an average of 17% and triglycerides by an average of 11%.
Improves brain function and memory
Ashwagandha enhances memory and improves executive function, attention, and information processing speed. The acetylcholine levels in the brain increase, which improves memory and brain function.
Builds muscle mass and strength
Ashwagandha causes a significant increase in muscle strength and reduction in body fat. When taken continuously for eight weeks, there is a considerable increase in muscle size and strength.
Reduces blood sugar levels
Ashwagandha impacts the body’s production of insulin and insulin sensitivity. It triggers insulin production in the bloodstream, improves the breakdown of sugar in the blood, and lowers blood sugar levels.
Reduces symptoms of depression
Ashwagandha is an adaptogen, and it helps the body manage stress. It boosts brain function, lowers cortisol levels, and reduces the symptoms of depression. When cortisol level drops, the body handles stress easily.
Increases fertility in men
Ashwagandha improves blood circulation in the body, which leads to increased sperm production. It enhances the endocrine system, increases testosterone levels, and boosts sperm quality and fertility in men.
Reduces inflammation
Ashwagandha has anti-inflammatory properties that protect the body against diseases. It increases the activity of immune cells in the body to fight infection and keep the body healthy.
It is safe for men and women to take Ashwagandha capsules daily after consulting a doctor about the dosage. In some people, it may cause gastrointestinal disturbances. The capsules are taken with milk to help manage male infertility. In women, it is best to avoid ashwagandha during pregnancy as it may increase uterine contractions.
In Ayurveda, Ashwagandha is known as the ‘Queen of herbs’ because of the health benefits. It boosts immunity, improves stamina, and helps people live healthy lives.