Ashwagandha uses and its health benefits is increasingly becoming one of the most popular evergreen herb around the world for all ages of people. This herb is very effective in regulating hormones and the immune system, discharging stress, refining concentration and growing energy levels. This article will review Ashwagandha uses and its health benefits, side-effects, and many more.
Overview:
For thousands of years, Ayurvedic medicine has been used as a traditional form of medicine to promote longevity, vitality and happiness. The herb, known as Indian ‘ginseng’ or ‘rasayana’ in Sanskrit, has been associated with rejuvenating properties and is known for its ability to promote cognitive function, nervous system and hormonal function. The roots of this herb have been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, such as stress and constipation, as well as insomnia and vitality. Additionally, its leaves and seeds have been used for a variety of treatments, including those related to sleep-inducing properties.
This herb is native to India, but can also be found in other Asian countries, as well as in parts of Africa. It is a small evergreen shrub with velvet-colored.
Ashwagandha what does it do for health benefits:
As stated that ashwagandha is a power adaptogenic herb that can help your body healthy in many ways, let’s look its traditional health benefits as below:
1. Reduces stress and anxiety –
Cortisol is a stress hormone that is naturally produced by the body. The normal amount of cortisol should be taken into account and treated as an effective treatment to decrease stress levels in the body by Ashwagandha. A normal amount of cortisol helps the body to maintain its daily routine, from morning to night, so that the body can have a good night’s sleep and perform relaxation processes.
2. Useful to Stabilize blood sugar & cholesterol –
Ashwagandha adaptogenic effect helps to stabilize blood sugar levels when it is high or low. It also helps to lower fasting blood sugar level. It also helps in improving heart health by lowering LDL cholesterol and triglyceride level. For diabetic patients, it is the best medicine to treat without any side effects. It helps in improving body and mind health. It regulates the body’s production of insulin and keeps blood sugar levels stable. It helps in protecting insulin-making cells and increases insulin levels. Additionally, it helps in the complete metabolism by aiding better waste elimination and overall health.
3. Anti-cancer properties –
Certain studies have found that ashwagandha have anti-cancer properties, as it helps to encourage apoptosis, which is the programmed death of cancer cell, and it also delays the growth of new cancer cells and prevent the spread of cancer to other organs. It may help to treat various types of cancer, like lung, breast, brain, colon and ovarian cancer.
4. Good for anti-inflammatory and analgesic benefits –
It is believed that ashwagandha is effective in reducing inflammatory and chronic inflammation is one of the causes of health issues like high blood pressure, heart disorders, and arthritis.
5. Control nervous system –
Ashwagandha has been shown to help protect nerve cells from bad influences and improve memory and brain function. It also helps to keep the nervous system healthy, which is important for overall health and happiness. Plus, it’s thought to have some potential benefits against Parkinson’s disease.
6. Good source of antioxidants –
Ashwagandha is believed to have a strong antioxidant, which is your body required a lot for the protection of your cells from cell damage.
7. Boost sex life –
It may also very useful to improve male fertility and increase libido.
8. Good for sleep –
Several studies have found that ashwagandha support healthy sleep, which is important to live a healthy life. It has presence of triethylene glycol compound, which cure insomnia, and stimulate sleep.
9. Heart health –
It is believed that ashwagandha support healthy cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which helps in stroke, heart attack and other cardiovascular problems. It also offered antioxidants support to the heart, which may help protect it against free radicals in the blood, and provide anti-inflammatory benefits that helps the heart work efficiently.
10. Boost immunity –
Ashwagandha is most useful herb for immune-system support for all ages. Ashwagandha has anti-inflammatory properties, which is very useful in painful conditions like arthritis, and this herb is full of iron, so this is helpful to red blood cell count, which help humans maintaining their health longer.
11. Good for skin, hair & reduce signs of ages –
This herb has a range of powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it beneficial for a healthy scalp. Additionally, it can help to reduce the symptoms and progression of certain health issues associated with ageing, such as dark spots, wrinkles, and fine lines. Furthermore, it can be used to cleanse the skin and protect it from dryness and acne, while also regulating cortisol levels and preventing stress-related ageing.
12. Help in weight loss & fitness –
Ashwagandha is effective in reducing weight if it consumed with milk, it also improve metabolism and stimulate better digestion. Ashwagandha is useful to increase energy level and stamina, and particularly for an athlete this herb improve their performance in intense physical exertion. It also support normal lean body weight and maintain muscle ratios.
Ashwagandha effects for health benefits –
- This herb has been found to have the capacity to improve and regulate the production of testosterone, which is essential for the health of men. Additionally, it has been found to be effective in improving and maintaining healthy male fertility.
- Furthermore, some studies have indicated that the presence of the beta-lacto butyric acid (Butyric acid) in the leaves of this herb may be beneficial in the treatment of prostate cancer among men.
- Additionally, the benefits of this herb have been demonstrated to be beneficial for women as well.
- Moreover, it has been proven to be beneficial in the growth of children in terms of developing their memory and retention abilities, as well as for increasing appetite, nourishment, mental strength, and stress reduction.
- There are herbal massage oils made using Ashwagandha extracts, and it is beneficial in treating sleeplessness, paralysis, and epilepsy.
- The regular use of Ashwagandha churna has been effective in conditions like rheumatism, senile debility, nervous exhaustion, low memory, and lower muscular energy.
- There is scientific literature that claims that the use of Ashwagandha in diet can improve the respiratory system.
- Ashwagandha is used in treating thyroid-related problems.
- It has been found that ashwagandha root can be used to treat to support occasional joint pain, stiffness, swelling and discomfort in healthy men and women due to normal wear and tear.
- It also be used for the treatment of asthma, and help to improve respiratory disorder and breathing issues, cough, chest congestion etc.
- Many studies fund that ashwagandha could be a natural treatment for ulcers, and also preventing the formation of painful ulcers.
Recommended Doses:
The following dosage of ashwagandha has been recommended as per Ayurveda experts:
| Form | Preparation | Recommended dosage/ day |
| Powder (churna) | The 1/2 teaspoon of Ashwagandha powder (churna) is taken with 1 glass of milk with some honey. | 2 times |
| Capsule | 1 capsule of Ashwagandha is taken with lukewarm milk or water. | 2 times |
| Tablet | 1 capsule of Ashwagandha is taken with lukewarm milk or water. | 2 times |
What are Ashwagandha uses for health?
Ayurvedic experts suggest that milk is beneficial for both the mind and the body. Both are known for their rejuvenating properties and are an ideal combination for your bodies, such as increasing muscle strength, weight management, and overall nutrition.
- Ashwagandha is available as tablets, powders, and roots, and can be made into tea by boiling it in milk and reducing it by half. You can also add sugar to enhance the flavor.
- It can be taken in liquid form or as a powder with cinnamon, and the best way to take it is by taking root extract capsules of 250-500 mg daily.
- The powder form is used for relieving conditions such as leukoderma and constipation, as well as nervous breakdown, and goiter.
- The paste made from the powder is used to relieve inflammation and pain in the joints. For a healthy and glowing complexion, you must only use the powder.
- Ashwagandha leaves are rich in iron and uses as herbal tea, which is very effective in relieving conditions like anemia and blood loss due to heavy periods.
- It also uses as a tonic for energy and relieving fever.
- Ashwagandha products are available in the market in various forms like, cookies, tea, balls, desserts, milkshake, ladoo etc.
Ashwagandha side effects and precautions while using:
Ashwagandha is considered safe for consumption if taken in the right dosage, but excessive dosage of ashwagandha may have some side effects as follows:
- For pregnant woman, premature baby birth, or miscarriage, or abortions
- Chances of stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting
- For low blood pressure patient, this can further lower blood sugar levels
- For stomach ulcer patient, this can irritate
- Not advisable for the surgery patient, can interferes with central nervous system
- Vomiting, diarrhea, upset stomach in some people
- It may also affect blood pressure and thyroid hormone level
- Rarely allergic reactions and rapid heartbeat
- Nevertheless people taking these types of medication should consult with their doctor before supplementing with the medicinal herb.
Conclusion:
This article aims to provide readers with information on the various ashwagandha uses and health benefits of the Ayurveda-based root of the same name, which has been used for centuries. The powder form of this plant has been found to offer a range of health benefits to men and women, although there is no definitive evidence to back up this claim. Nevertheless, it is recommended to consume it in the correct dosage after consulting with a medical professional. We hope that this article has been of assistance to readers, and that they can use this herb in their daily lives to maintain their health and wellbeing.
FAQ
What is ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha (Somnifera ashwagandha) is a naturally occurring adaptogenic herb that is native to the Indian subcontinent and elsewhere in Asia. Ashwagandha have been used in traditional Ayurveda medicine for thousands of years and are well-known for their ability to reduce stress, improve overall health, and promote various health benefits.
What are the health benefits of ashwagandha?
It is a widely used herbal remedy for various health benefits, such as reducing stress, improving cognitive functioning, and improving mood. Additionally, it may have a positive effect on energy levels, immune system function, and hormonal balance. Nevertheless, it is recommended that individuals consult a healthcare professional prior to incorporating the herbal remedy into their daily routine to ensure that it is suitable for their individual requirements and health conditions.
How do I take ashwagandha?
You can take ashwagandha as a capsule, as a powder, or as a tincture. The dosage of Ashwagandha varies from product to product and from person to person. Therefore, it is recommended to follow the dosage instructions on the label of the product or to consult with your health care professional to determine the right dose for you.
Does ashwagandha help with stress and anxiety?
It’s been known for a long time to help with stress and anxiety because it has an adaptogenic effect, which means it can help the body adjust to different stressors. There are some studies that show that taking some of these supplements can help reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety, but everyone’s response is different, so it’s important to talk to your doctor about how to use it for your own stress and anxiety.
Are there any side effects of ashwagandha?
While it is generally safe to use within recommended dosages, some people may experience mild reactions, such as digestive distress or sleepiness. It is important to consult with your doctor or pharmacist first, especially if your health is not well-understood or you are taking medications. They will be able to help you determine the right dosage for you and keep an eye out for any side effects.
Can ashwagandha help with sleep?
While research on the direct effects on sleep is still ongoing, some users have reported improved sleep quality following the use of the herb as part of relaxation and stress-management regimens. According to some studies, the body and the mind are both more relaxed after inhaling the herb, which may help improve sleep quality in some people.
Is ashwagandha safe during pregnancy?
However, it is important to note that the safety of this herbal supplement during pregnancy is not well known and there is not a lot of research on its effects on foetal development. Therefore, it is recommended that pregnant women consult with their healthcare provider before taking this or any herbal supplement to ensure the health of both mother and baby.
Where can I buy ashwagandha supplements?
If you’re looking to get your hands on some ashwagandha, you’ve got a few options. Health food stores, online stores, and pharmacies are all good places to start. But it’s important to pick a reliable supplier to make sure you get the best quality and purity. You can also ask your doctor for advice on where to buy them.
Reference Used:
https:www.healthifyme.com/blog/ashwagandha-benefits-side-effects-recipes
https:www.kamaayurveda.com/blog/ashwagandha-benefits
https:pharmeasy.in/blog/ashwagandha-uses-benefits-side-effects
