Ashwagandha, also referred to as Indian ginseng, has a wide range of health benefits, including its ability to reduce blood glucose levels, fight cancer, reduce strain and stress, also increase fertility in males. Additionally, it will help prevent arthritis, asthma, hypertension, and rheumatism. Furthermore, Ashwagandha promotes the source of antioxidants and regulates the immune system.
Ashwagandha has been used for 3000 years for the treatment of anxiety, stress, and to improve the immune system.[1]
Side effects of ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is a well-known Ayurveda herb commonly taken for general wellness, anxiety, and stress. There are a few side effects which people may suffer after a week or a few months after the use.
- Headache
- Sleepiness
- Allergic
- Upset stomach
- Rapid heartbeat
- Longterm studies have not been done on the safety of ashwagandha
What are the benefits of ashwagandha?
It also has antibacterial and anticonvulsant properties. What is Ashwagandha (Indian Ginseng)? Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a medicinal herb that’s been used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for centuries. It’s an adaptogen, meaning it can assist the body to manage stress It goes to the Solanaceae family and is also known as Indian ginseng or chilly cherry. The use of Ashwagandha for so many centuries has sparked the curiosity of modern medical science, resulting in an interest in exploring the medicinal properties of this plant. Preliminary research indicated the presence of future therapeutic abilities, plus it also revealed no associated toxicity into the chemical constituents of this plant.[1]
A 2011 scientific report published in the Journal of Stress Physiology & Biochemistry on the plant indicates that it has anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidizing, anti-stress, sleep-inducing, and medication withdrawal properties. Many formulations that are created from this herb improve musculoskeletal issues such as arthritis and rheumatism. Additionally, it functions as a tonic that boosts power and enhances overall health and longevity.
Research conducted at the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology in Japan reported that the leaves of Ashwagandha could inhibit cancer cells.
So why has this particular herb been so hot, and why is everybody talking about it? Let us take a look at its benefits. Health Benefits of AshwagandhaRegular consumption of Ashwagandha could result in various health advantages.
Let us look at these health benefits in detail below:
Ashwagandha has long been utilized as a cure for diabetes in Ayurvedic medicine. A research report published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences revealed that the flavonoids found in the leaves and roots of Ashwagandha are used to cure diabetes.
As part of this experimentation, diabetic rats were administered with the extracts of W. somnifera root (WSREt) and foliage (WSLEt). It was concluded that Ashwagandha possesses antidiabetic and antihyperlipidemic properties that significantly decrease the blood sugar levels in diabetic rats during fasting and the post-lunch interval when consumed for four weeks or longer. Naturopathic doctor, Marie Winters, in a research study, published in the Alternative Medicine Review has explained Ashwagandha as an emerging and novel option in the specialty of oncology, in association with radiation therapy and chemotherapy, due to its cancer-killing properties.
It is also of interest since it is known to reduce the unwanted effects of chemotherapy without interfering with the tumor cell-killing action. Organic Ashwagandha root, with its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, is perfect for cardiovascular problems. It strengthens the heart muscles and may also control cholesterol. A study published by the University of Arizona at the World Journal of Medical Sciences suggested that it owns hypolipidemic properties that assist with reducing blood cholesterol levels.
Help to reduce blood sugar level.
Many Medical studies found that ashwagandha helps to lower blood sugar levels. In one study The researcher found it increases insulin secretion and improved insulin in muscle cells.[3]
Another study was conducted with six people who had type 2 diabetes, they are given an ashwagandha supplement for 30 days later they found that it lowered fasting blood sugar levels effectively same as diabetes medication.[5]
Relieves Stress
Ashwagandha extract is believed to decrease the cortisol levels in the body and thereby possesses anti-stress properties. Traditionally, it was administered to induce a calming and soothing effect on a person. An analysis published in the Indian Journal of Clinical Biochemistry found that laboratory rats treated using the herbal extract of Ashwagandha may defy multiple strain tests that they had been subjected to, compared to a passive control group.
Reduces Anxiety
Ashwagandha supplements to aid in reducing stress. In India, organic Ashwagandha has been traditionally utilized in Ayurveda to enhance both physical and mental health. The effects of this medicine, especially on depression, were analyzed at the Institute of Medical Sciences in Banaras Hindu University, India. The research supported the benefits in connection with depression and anxiety.
Increases Fertility in Men
In addition to raising testosterone levels, Ashwagandha also helps in improving semen quality. A 2010 scientific study published by the American Center for Reproductive Medicine indicated that Ashwagandha plays a significant part as an aphrodisiac in addition to a way to boost semen quality by increasing the sperm count and sperm mobility. [9] This has been the reason why, for many centuries, people have been utilizing it as a medicine to please their partner in bed.
Ashwagandha can reduce inflammation
Many medical studies were performed on animals and found that ashwagandha helps to decrease inflammation.[9].
Studies in humans have found that ashwagandha helps to increase the activity of natural killer cells, which fight infection and improve the immune system and stay healthy.[10]
Aids in Muscle Growth
Ashwagandha has been proven to be useful in enhancing the muscular strength of the lower limbs and helping recover weakness. It also has a positive influence on neuro-muscular coordination. Intake of Ashwagandha for libido and sexual health is a traditional Ayurveda remedy, but there isn’t much scientific research supporting the claim. Note: It should be used to get ED only under the recommendation of a professional medical practitioner. In cases of hypothyroidism, Ashwagandha may be used to stimulate the thyroid gland.
A 2011 study printed in the Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology on its effects on the thyroid gland demonstrated that the root infusion is given daily, would increase the secretion of thyroid hormones. [10]Boosts Immunity Research studies have shown that the usage of Ashwagandha resulted in considerable modulation of immune system reactivity and averted myelosuppression in mice induced by immunosuppressive drugs.
Ashwagandha capsules can help boost blood flow cells, white blood cells, and platelet count, which then assist boost immunity. Hematopoiesis is the process of producing new blood. According to research published in Alternative Medicine Review, Ashwagandha owns hematopoietic properties. [6]
The analysis showed that red blood cell and white blood cell counts increased significantly in rats that were administered with the herb. This may mean beneficial impacts on human red blood cells too, thereby helping prevent ailments like anemia.
Prevents Seizures
Ashwagandha natural herbal formula and extracts are a widely used cure for seizures and convulsions in Ayurvedic medicine. Another study, published in the Indian Journal of Clinical Biochemistry, also revealed the presence of anticonvulsant properties in this beautiful plant.
Reduces Ocular Diseases
The antioxidant and cytoprotective properties of Ashwagandha are best for combating cataract ailments. Anti-inflammatory PropertiesAshwagandha has been proven to be successful in handling a variety of rheumatologic problems. The herb is known to act as a cyclooxygenase inhibitor that reduces pain and inflammation. Research conducted at the Los Angeles College of Chiropractors suggests that the grass has anti-inflammatory properties that include the alkaloids, saponins, and steroidal lactones found within it. Antibacterial Properties Based on Ayurvedic medical texts, Ashwagandha is successful in controlling bacterial diseases in humans.
A 2011 study performed by the Centre for Biotechnology at the University of Allahabad in India and published in the Alternative Medicine Review revealed that this herb possesses antibacterial properties. It also concluded that it had been dominant in urinogenital, gastrointestinal, and respiratory tract ailments when consumed orally. Negative Effects of Using Ashwagandha
The risk for Pregnant Women:
Pregnant women are advised to avoid consumption of this herb as it possesses abortifacient properties.
Risk of Medical Interactions:
Doctors urge caution since it can interact with routine medications, especially for people who are suffering from ailments like diabetes, hypertension, anxiety, depression, and insomnia.
Note: Avoid taking in massive quantities as this may have side effects such as diarrhea, upset stomach, and nausea. Dosage The origin is offered in the market in powdered, dried, or fresh root form. 1-2 teaspoons or 5-6 grams of the powder is advocated when you consume it for general wellbeing. You might even take Ashwagandha for stress relief. But when you take the herb for treating almost any specific disease, you need to consult a medical practitioner like an Ayurvedic doctor for the dose.
Ashwagandha tea
- You can make the tea by mixing the powder in warm water for 10 minutes.
- Do not use more than a teaspoon in one cup of water.
- You could also have organic Ashwagandha root powder, together with a glass of sexy milk before going to sleep.
Useful Medical research links
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3252722/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3573577/
https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/ashwagandha
https://www.hindawi.com/journals/bmri/2015/284154/
https://jissn.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12970-015-0104-9
https://www.rxlist.com/ashwagandha/supplements.htm
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/303343480_Studies_of_Ashwagandha_Withania_somnifera_Dunal
https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00817752
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/0378874195013180
