Ashwagandha is a plant of the Indian tradition. It can be a natural help to a wide variety of people affected by emotional, psychological, metabolic and physiological problems because of its remarkable therapeutic versatility.
It is widely known for its health benefits. Its antioxidant properties favor the immune and nervous system and can even be used as an aphrodisiac.
Following are top 11 scientifically proved Ashwagandha benefits to know:
1. This herb which is popularly called “Indian Ginseng” is used as an effective treatment against insomnia as it acts as a muscle relaxant and allows a deep sleep. It also reduces the symptoms of stress and its effects are comparable to drugs used to treat anxiety or depression.
2. Various medical studies have proven that Ashwagandha, thanks to its high levels of antioxidants, has a positive effect in people suffering from serious degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease, since it benefits the synapse, that is, the reconstruction of the union of neuronal cells, regenerating the central nervous system.
3. Also, the plant works as a powerful anti-inflammatory and is used to treat the pains related to osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis, in those cases, it is applied as oil in the affected areas causing almost immediate relief.
4. It is also consumed by patients with type 2 diabetes because it helps regulate blood glucose levels. It also suppresses sweet cravings and reduces appetite, so it is recommended to newly diagnosed patients in the process of adapting to the new diet.
5. According to scientific research from the University of Arizona, Ashwagandha has anticancer effects and has been proven to prevent the reproduction of tumor cells in patients with breast, lung and colon cancer, since witaferin, one of the components of the plant, inhibits the growth of blood vessels in malignant tumors preventing it from increasing in size.
6. The properties of this herb revitalize the body and that is why it is traditionally used in Asia as an enhancer of the male libido, among its effects, is the improvement of blood circulation and is used in cases of sexual impotence or even infertility.
7. It is also intended for the treatment of attention deficit due to nervous hyperactivity, although its efficacy is not scientifically proven.
8. The Ashwagandha is also intended to combat nervous fatigue, weakness and anemic states due to lack of iron. Treatments with Ashwagandha can significantly raise the levels of hemoglobin and erythrocytes (red blood cells) in anemic and helps to recover patients from the disease.
9. It is a revitalizing highlight, aimed especially at elderly people, to stop the loss of spirits and vitality, and to combat asthenia.
10. It has also been attributed a certain immunomodulatory effect, which would favor the increase of leukocytes or white blood cells and strengthen the organism against the eventuality of an infection or pathogenic aggression.
11. Ashwagandha extracts have been tried, still experimentally, to cope with certain side effects of radiotherapy. It has been proven that it could reduce myelosuppression which is a condition of the bone marrow that causes a decrease in white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets.
Aesthetic uses of the Ashwagandha:
The Ashwagandha in addition to all the benefits it brings to health is also used as a natural aesthetic treatment which rejuvenates the skin and strengthens the body, increasing the vitality and energy of those who consume it.
Thanks to the antioxidants that are found in its components. The plant manages to fight free radicals which are the body’s chemicals responsible for aging, wrinkles and skin blemishes. The consumption of Ashwagandha reduces the effect of these molecules, delaying the visible signs of aging.
Its benefits do not end there because it also stimulates the production of collagen which keeps the skin fresh and smooth. Its leaves also have healing properties and therefore its application in wounds is recommended since it is useful in the process of skin healing.
High levels of cortisol, a hormone produced by stress affect the body and cause hair loss since the Ashwagandha stabilizes the amount of cortisol and stimulates the hair follicles works as a treatment against hair loss. In addition to revitalizing, it promotes the production of melanin which maintains its pigmentation.
The plant is also rich in vitamins and minerals such as iron, potassium nitrate, fatty acids and glucose which improves digestion and eliminates toxins that are ingested through food.
Side effects of the Ashwagandha:
Being a natural plant Ashwagandha does not usually have adverse side effects, however, its consumption in large quantities can produce negative symptoms.
Due to its diuretic properties, excessive consumption of the plant can cause severe abdominal pain and even diarrhea. Its consumption is not recommended for people with HIV because its stimulating effects of the immune system can be harmful.
It should not be used by pregnant women or those who are breastfeeding, as it can interfere with the baby’s nutrition.
Since the plant has somnolent effects, special care must be taken if it is ingested while the person uses medications for anxiety, depression, sedatives or any barbiturate, since its effect can be enhanced by these substances.
It is also recommended that once the Ashwagandha is consumed the individual avoids the use of heavy machinery since it will be more difficult to maintain the concentration and rapidity of the reflexes.
Undoubtedly the Ashwagandha brings great benefits to the human body, currently, they are developing various medical studies on this millenary plant. It is believed that its components could be the answer to several degenerative diseases.
Consuming this herb will lead us to enhance our vitality and increase our quality of life, used for centuries in the oriental world today we have the opportunity to use it. Either with doses recommended by the doctor or as a tea. Ashwagandha should be included in your routine.
As you can see, the benefits of Ashwagandha for health are numerous, so the experts recommend it for the following cases, but before deciding to take it, always consult a specialist.
