Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) or stunning cheese berry is an evergreen shrub belonging to the family of groundnuts that grows in India, the Middle East and some African countries. Several other species of the ground warbler family are morphologically similar.
Ashwagandha is known as an adaptogen that supports the body’s ability to adapt to stress, providing overall balance and energy.
Ashwagandha is one of the most commonly used herbs in Ayurveda. People have used ashwagandha thousands of years to reduce stress, increase energy levels and improve concentration.
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Ashwagandha is a small shrub with yellow flowers, whose root, leaf extract and powder are used to prevent a variety of ailments (including anxiety and fertility problems). The name ashwagandha describes the smell of the root and means horse.
Research so far confirms a number of potential benefits of Ashwagandha.
- May reduce stress and anxiety. As an adaptogen, it helps the body cope with stress, increases the amount of cortisol in the body.
- May increase physical activity and strength in athletes.
- May reduce symptoms of depression in people with a sensitive nervous system or anxiety disorders.
- May increase testosterone levels in men. Some studies have shown that ashwagandha supplements improve male fertility and increase testosterone levels.
- Can regulate and balance blood sugar levels.
- Ashwagandha contains compounds that help reduce inflammatory processes in the body.
- May improve brain function and memory.
- May improve sleep quality.
- Regulates the menstrual cycle. Stress affects hormonal balance (which is why menstruation can be delayed), fertility problems and activates facial hair growth. Ashwagandha stimulates blood circulation, which in turn regulates the menstrual cycle and thereby improves fertility.
- Stimulates the production of natural oils necessary for the skin, thus reducing the formation of acne and wrinkles and making the skin brighter and more elastic.
- The preparation is safe and without side effects if it is taken in the recommended amount.
What is the daily dose of ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha comes in several forms: gummies, capsules, liquid drops, and powders that can be mixed into drinks.
So, how much ashwagandha should you take per day? Regardless of the form in which it is consumed, the usual dose is 500 mg twice a day.
In some cases, too high doses can cause unpleasant side effects. Before new medicinal plants dietary supplements(including ashwagandha) should be discussed with a healthcare professional (product safety, dosages).
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The post Ashwagandha: Modern benefits appeared first on Lääne Elu.
2024-12-06 06:33:00
#Ashwagandha #Modern #Benefits
What are the potential risks or side effects of taking Ashwagandha?
## Ashwagandha: Ancient Herb, Modern Wellness
**Host:** Welcome back to the show! Today we’re diving into the world of natural wellness
with a look at Ashwagandha, an herb used for centuries in traditional medicine. We’re joined by Dr. Emily Green, a Naturopathic Doctor and herbalist. Dr. Green, thanks for being here.
**Dr. Green:** Thanks for having me! It’s great to be here to talk about Ashwagandha.
**Host:** For our listeners who might not be familiar with it, what exactly is Ashwagandha, and what makes it so special?
**Dr. Green:** Ashwagandha (pronounced Ash-wa-GAN-duh) is a shrub native to India, the Middle East, and parts of Africa. Its name, meaning “smell of horse” in Sanskrit, refers to the root’s distinct odor and its supposed ability to bestow the vitality and strength of a horse. It’s been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years, and it’s classified as an adaptogen, which means it helps the body adapt to stress.
**Host:** So, how does Ashwagandha actually work?
**Dr. Green:** While more research is needed, studies suggest Ashwagandha may work by regulating cortisol levels, a key hormone involved in the stress response. It also contains compounds that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
**Host:** That’s fascinating! What are some of the potential health benefits associated with Ashwagandha?
**Dr. Green:** Ashwagandha has been studied for a range of potential benefits, including reducing stress and anxiety,
improving sleep quality, enhancing athletic performance, boosting cognitive function and memory, and even supporting male fertility by increasing testosterone levels.
**Host:** Wow, that’s quite a list! Are there any risks or side effects to be aware of?
**Dr. Green:** Like any supplement, it’s important to talk to your doctor before taking Ashwagandha, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications. Some mild side effects have been reported, such as drowsiness, stomach upset, and diarrhea.
**Host:** Dr. Green, thank you so much for sharing your expertise on Ashwagandha with us today. It’s truly a fascinating herb with a lot of potential.
**Dr. Green:** My pleasure! Remember, always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen. [[1](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/ashwagandha)]
