The health advantages of Ashwagandha

Estimated reading time: 0 minutes

Ashwagandha is a Sanskrit word, and its binomial name is “Withania sominifera (WS),” which translates to “horse odour.” It is believed that whoever consumes this plant will gain the strength and vitality of a horse. It is an exceptionally nutritious medicinal herb. Ashwagandha has been used in Ayurveda for approximately 3,000 years. As an adaptogen, Ashwagandha helps us to better handle stress, and it can also reduce blood sugar levels, balance cholesterol levels, and reduce anxiety and depression symptoms. Ashwagandha is known as the “Queen of Ayurveda” because it has been used as a broad-spectrum remedy in India for centuries.

The health advantages of Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha offers numerous potent benefits. It is an effective treatment for diabetes and cancer, arthritis, hypertension, asthma, rheumatism, and stress. Additionally, ashwagandha has antioxidant, anticonvulsant, and antibacterial properties, etc. It has a revitalising and calming effect on the whole body. In addition to its dual stimulating and calming effects, Ashwagandha provides the following benefits:

Stress reduction and energy support

Modern society is afflicted with chronic stress, and Ashwagandha is a herbal boon for those battling stress. Ashwagandha is known to reduce high levels of the stress hormone cortisol. It has antistress properties and was administered to induce a soothing and calming effect. As an adaptogen, it promotes adrenal gland health, prevents fatigue, and increases energy levels. Ashwagandha is associated with an increase in serum T4 (thyroxin), which enhances thyroid function by boosting energy levels, mood, and the immune system.

Regulates Blood glucose level

Ayurveda has long employed Ashwagandha as a potent treatment for diabetes. Consuming Ashwagandha during fasting and post-lunch significantly reduces blood sugar levels. According to a study, diabetics who regularly consume Ashwagandha root and leaf extracts may experience a reduction in blood sugar levels. Ashwagandha aids in the treatment of diabetic conditions.

Maintains control over cholesterol levels

Because of its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties, Ashwagandha root is extremely beneficial for cardiovascular issues. It strengthens the heart muscles and maintains healthy cholesterol levels. According to research, it contains hypolipidemic properties that help reduce blood levels of bad cholesterol.

Anti-cancer properties

In recent decades, science has begun to acknowledge the efficacy of ayurvedic medicines. Ashwagandha is one of these herbs with unexpected anti-cancer properties. It generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) that are toxic to cancer cells but not to normal cells and may reduce the cancer cells’ resistance to apoptosis. Researchers have discovered that due to its cancer-killing properties, it can be used as an alternative cancer treatment. It is also intriguing because it reduces the side effects of chemotherapy without interfering with the activity of killing tumour cells.

Considered an aphrodisiac

This traditional, magical herb is a potent enhancer of male libido, but it is prescribed to treat erectile dysfunction. Use Ashwagandha for ED treatment only after consulting a physician. Ashwagandha effectively increases sperm production in men with low sperm count.

Enhances cognitive function and memory

The antioxidant activity promoted by ashwagandha protects nerve cells from harmful free radicals. It improves brain function and memory impairments caused by injury or illness. Ashwagandha’s active component traverses the blood-brain barrier and acts as a therapeutic agent for a stress-induced neurological disorder. It enhances cognitive abilities, memory, and reaction times, as well as its ability to perform tasks.

Beneficial for Heart

The herb has a powerful antioxidant effect and prevents the lipid peroxidation that leads to heart disease in humans. It strengthens the heart’s muscles, protects it from attack, and enhances its tolerance and survival capabilities. The herb extract can prevent necrosis, which is the unintentional death of living cells and tissues caused by an attack. According to researchers, those who have suffered a heart attack or are at risk due to hypertension and diabetes should consume Ashwagandha because it reduces inflammation and has heart-protective properties.

Ashwagandha for skin

If you’ve always desired soft, supple, flawless, radiant skin, Ashwagandha is your best option. The herb is rich in antioxidants and combats the damaging free radicals generated by the sun’s ultraviolet rays. You can eliminate dark spots, wrinkles, and other signs of ageing.

Ashwagandha for hair

According to Ayurveda, ashwagandha can be used to treat hair and scalp disorders. Its ability to increase blood flow to the scalp helps hair follicles absorb more nutrients, resulting in thicker, stronger hair. It also reduces cortisol levels by mitigating the effects of stress on the body, thereby preventing hair loss and breakage. Ashwagandha stimulates the production of melanin, the pigment that gives hair its natural colour.

Related-

Know More About Ayurveda Treatments.