Ashwagandha is an ancient and traditional medicinal herb that grows not only in India, but also in the Middle East and parts of Africa. The name “Ashwagandha” comes from Sanskrit, which means horse and smell, and refers to the aroma of the herb and the power it gives.
For eons, humans have used the orange-red fruit and roots of Ashwagandha for many medicinal purposes. This herb not only heals our physical ailments, but it also improves our mental well-being. Now, let’s know about some amazing benefits of Ashwagandha.
- Relieves anxiety and stress
in this pandemic era, who doesn’t need to keep a check on stress levels? We all do!
The healing properties of Ashwagandha have often been supported by science itself. It is best known for reducing stress and anxiety in people. A study of 64 chronically stressed people showed that after taking ashwagandha, people reduced anxiety and insomnia by 69%, This is because the herb helps in reducing the cortisol levels which helps you to calm down. This, in turn, reduced the impact of your flight and fight response (anxiety).
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- Reduces blood sugar levels
Ashwagandha has been shown to lower blood sugar levels in several studies. A test-tube study found that it increased insulin secretion and improved insulin sensitivity in muscle cells.
In a world of ever increasing diabetic cases- it wouldn’t harm to keep our sugar levels in check!
- Manages cortisol levels
Cortisol is known as a stress hormone because your adrenal glands release it in response to stress and when your blood sugar levels are low.
Unfortunately, in some cases, cortisol levels can become chronically elevated, which can lead to high blood sugar levels and increased fat storage in the abdomen. Significant studies have shown that ashwagandha can control and lower cortisol levels.
- Increases fertility in men and boosts testosterone
Ashwagandha supplements can be beneficial for people with infertility. From improving your libido to promoting testosterone production, it can help men regain their sex drive and cure infertility in men as well.
- Reduces inflammation
Several animal studies have shown that ashwagandha reduces inflammation. Also, human studies have found that it increases the activity of natural killer cells, which are immune cells that fight infection and help you stay healthy.
It has also been shown to decrease inflammation markers such as C- Reactive Protein (CRP). This marker is linked to an increased risk of heart disease.
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- Boosts memory
Ashwagandha’s healing powers are not just limited to your body, they also extend to your brain. They can help improve brain health, memory, and concentration.
Moreover, Research has shown that ashwagandha increases antioxidant activity that protects nerve cells from harmful free radicals, which in turn increases the efficiency of your brain.
- Effective against cancer
According to many animal studies, ashwagandha contains a component named as withaferin that induces apoptosis, which is conditioned to kill cancer cells.
The chemical compound initially promotes the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cancer cells and thus prevents their function. It then allows apoptosis to take over and eradicate harmful cancer cells.
- Lowers cholesterol
Ashwagandha can also do wonders for your heart health. It helps control cholesterol levels, which is crucial for preventing heart disease.
According to a 60-day study of stressed adults, the group that took the highest dose of standardized ashwagandha extract experienced an average decrease in cholesterol levels.
- Reduces symptoms of depression
Aside from its many health benefits, Ashwagandha also has therapeutic powers to heal people with depression- This could stem from a healthy body – and therefore healthy mind.
According to a 60-day study, 64 people with mental health problems received extracts of ashwagandha. These people were found to experience a 79 percent decrease in major depression, while the placebo group reported a 10% increase.
- Increases muscle mass
When it comes to your body, ashwagandha will help you build strength and build muscle mass. It improves your stamina and allows you to live a healthy life while allowing intense physical exercise to lose weight.
DISCLAIMER: The use of ashwagandha may vary from person to person or depending on each individual’s bodily conditions- please consult a doctor and understand YOUR body’s requirement before you begin consumption.
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