As many of us already know, Ashwagandha is an ancient herb with medicinal uses and properties. It also has multifarious advantages for the brain and body alike as per studies. From reducing blood sugar to enhanced brain functioning and combating depression and anxiety, there are widespread advantages of consuming this herb as experts will tell you.
It is one of the most vital Ayurvedic herbs for natural healing and has been used reportedly over 3,000 years and counting for higher energy, stress relief, and improved concentration. In Sanskrit, Ashwagandha equates to the smell of the horse, referring to its unique abilities for boosting strength and smell alike. Withania Somnifera is the botanical name of Ashwagandha and it is also commonly called as winter cherry or Indian Ginseng. The plant itself is a tiny shrub that has yellow flowers and is a native to North Africa and India. Extracts/powder from the leaves/root of the plant is used for treating various ailments. Its high concentration of withanolides helps in fighting growth of tumors and inflammation.
Biggest Ashwagandha benefits that you should know
Ashwagandha has innumerable benefits for our bodies and here’s taking a look at some of them.
- Lowers levels of blood sugar- One of the foremost Ashwagandha benefits is that it reduces blood sugar levels considerably. Studies have found that consumption automatically enhanced secretion of insulin while enhancing insulin-based sensitivity in muscle cells. Several studies have reported that it can also lower levels of blood sugar for diabetics and healthy individuals alike.
- Possible Anti-Cancer Attributes- Various research reports and studies have unearthed how Withaferin which is a key compound in Ashwagandha, enables apoptosis which equates to the death of cancerous cells. It promotes the development of ROS (reactive oxygen species) within cancer cells, thereby disrupting their overall functionality. Various types of cancers may be treated with this herb including colon, breast, brain, lung, and ovarian cancer.
- Lowers Cortisol levels- Cortisol is the stress hormone and, in some situations, volumes may go up exponentially, leading to higher levels of blood sugar and enhanced storage of fat in the abdomen. Consumption of Ashwagandha supplements may help in reducing Cortisol levels greatly.
- Reduced Anxiety and Stress- Stress relief is a major attribute along with lower anxiety disorders as well.
- Combats Depression- Studies also indicate that one of the major Ashwagandha benefits is that it lowers depression to a great extent.
- Enhances Fertility and Testosterone- Supplements containing this herb may boost testosterone greatly along with enhancing male fertility.
- Increased Muscle Strength and Mass- It may also enhance strength and body composition while helping users gain muscle size and mass alike. Body fat reduction may also double as a result.
- Reduces Inflammation- Several reports have also stated that it enables the reduction of inflammation, thereby helping combat infections greatly.
- Low Cholesterol and Triglycerides- It may also enhance the health of the heart by lowering cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
- Enhanced Brain Functioning- It may also combat problems related to brain functioning and memory.
Ashwagandha is widely available and is safe to use for most people as well. People suffering from autoimmune diseases should also bypass the same unless you are authorized by your healthcare practitioner. People with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and type 1 diabetes should carefully consume the same after taking medical advice. The same applies to those with thyroid disease.
Reference Link:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/12-proven-ashwagandha-benefits#14
