Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) or Indian winter cherry is a shrub native to India and is considered as one of the most valuable herb in the country’s traditional Ayurvedic medicine. The Ashwagandha herb is India’s own ‘ginseng’ because of its rejuvenating effects, although the plant is not botanically related to the real ginseng family. Based on historical records, Ayurveda used ashwagandha extract to remedy a wide variety of health problems like edematous conditions, malnutrition, decreased libido, and low energy. Only recently that ashwagandha benefits have been scrutinised by western cultures, and the plant has clinically proven that it positively affects many body systems.
Ashwagandha contains very active constituents called withanolides, which are accountable for all of Ashwagandha’s medicinal uses. According to studies, withanolides possess anti-stress, anti-inflammatory, immune-stimulating, mind-boosting, anti-tumour, and rejuvenating abilities. Because of all these remarkable properties, Ashwagandha extract from the plant’s root is being manufactured as supplements in western countries and all over the world. Ashwagandha supplements are getting huge attention, especially from those who are turning to alternative medicine for safer and more natural modes of treatment.
Ashwagandha Benefits
- Ashwagandha is a powerful adaptogenic herb. Meaning, it strengthens the body’s resistance to stress and at the same time improves energy production. Ashwagandha works by producing calming effects to the mind and nerves, relieving brain fag, mental exhaustion, and loss of energy. This adaptogen may also reduce the physical, mental, and emotional side effects of stress.
- W. somnifera promotes sound sleep, making it a good natural remedy for insomnia patients. For this purpose, Ashwagandha supplements are best used with valerian root for enhanced hypnotic effects.
- The ashwagandha herb is a natural aphrodisiac. It can be used as a natural remedy for low libido, low sperm count, and lack of sexual desire. Ashwagandha’s use in promoting sexual health has long been known in India.
- Using organic ashwagandha may offer protection against the signs and symptoms of arthritis. Arthritis is a degenerative disease due to wear and tear of the connective tissues in the joints. People affected with this disease experiences severe joint pain and swelling that usually leads to immobility.
- Ashwagandha extract may also help improve sensitivity to insulin, which is very important for people with Diabetes. Essentially, ashwagandha can neutralise blood glucose levels to improve the symptoms of diabetes.
- Clinical studies have shown that Ashwagandha extract can increase white blood cell count and other immune factors for stronger immunity. This mechanism makes the body more resistant against communicable diseases and seasonal infections.
- Ashwagandha benefits healthy brain functions. Clinical research suggests that consuming ashwagandha supplements can increase the levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is a chemical that helps transmit impulses between nerve cells for healthy cognitive functions.
Ashwagandha Side Effects
Organic ashwagandha and ashwagandha supplements are generally safe for use, especially when taken in its recommended daily dosage of 600 mg per day. However, when taken in large doses for prolonged periods, Ashwagandha can cause gastrointestinal side effects like diarrhea, stomach upset, and vomiting.
