Ashwagandha, also known as Withania foraminifera, is a very effective medicinal herb and has been used for its health benefits for thousands of years. The number of benefits that this small plant offers is too many and many scientists are still researching it to find even more benefits. It is also referred to as an Indian version of ginseng. It is great for people who have suffered from prolonged sickness and are looking forward to revitalizing their bodies and strengthening their immunity. Check out on health benefits of ashwagandha-
Unique Properties of Ashwagandha
- It is known to have compounds with pretty strong anti-oxidant properties. Therefore, people who are in need of anti-oxidants can use this plant and reap its benefits. Researchers also claim that ashwagandha has the power to even slow down the aging process.
- Ashwagandha is known to have efficient anti-inflammatory properties.
- Ashwagandha has strong properties of anti-bacterial nature due to which it can greatly reduce the bacteria load in your body.
- The unique part of ashwagandha is that it adapts according to the person it is taken by. It accordingly leads to the fortification of the person’s body.
- This herb has antiseptic properties too.
Amazing Health Benefits of Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is also known as “Indian Winter cherry” or “Indian Ginseng”. The name ‘Ashwagandha’ is derived from the Sanskrit words “Ashwa”, which refers to a horse, and “Gandha”, which means odor. Each part of this shrub (from leaves to roots) is beneficial. From helping to lengthen lifespan to its therapeutic attributes, this beneficial herb offers several benefits.
Builds strength and bone health
Ashwagandha is very beneficial if you are aiming to strengthen your body. It increases your muscle mass as well as prepares the body for harder physical exercises. It has been found very effective in treating fatigue and is very helpful in restoring strength and vitality.
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People who are suffering from bone-related problems such as arthritis, osteoarthritis, and gout can use this for relief from pain and swelling. Moreover, if you are suffering from a problem with nerves and are prone to panic attacks and anxiety, ashwagandha will be very helpful for you.
Supports good digestion
When it comes to digestion, you have multiple health benefits of ashwagandha. It protects you from ulcers in the intestine and stomach as well as cures constipation. It has been found that this herb has a protective function for your liver and also soothes the spasm in the intestine.
Improves heart health
Ashwagandha provides a variety of advantages to the heart including treatment for chest pain, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and other heart ailments. It is beneficial for both men and women.
Fights infection and boost immunity
Ashwagandha calms and relieves sensitive or inflamed skin. The different elements in this herb improve your immune system. it has been found very effective in the treatment of fever, cough, and cold. Asthma and conjunctivitis.
Helps in cancer treatment
Studies show withaferin, a compound in ashwagandha destroys cancer cells. It also assists in treating different types of cancer (lung, breasts, colon, brain, etc). It also prevents tumors and ulcers.
Improves thyroid health
Ashwagandha boosts T3 and T4 thyroid hormone levels which play a significant role in controlling hypothyroidism and reducing the symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
Helps in weight loss
If you want to shed some weight, ashwagandha is there to help you. You can consume it in powder form made from dried ashwagandha leaves. Simply mix one spoon of the powder in a milk glass with some honey and take it daily for weight loss.
Treats fertility issues in men
Ashwagandha is very popular as an effective aphrodisiac. It regulates sexual functions well. Ashwagandha has been proven as an effective remedy for premature ejaculation and impotence. It also has proven to be a cure for infertility. For people with low sperm counts, this herb is a boon. It is known for renewing sperm as well as eliminating the weaker ones besides increasing sperm concentration and motility in men.
Cures Insomnia
For people who have insomnia or troubled sleep, ashwagandha has been found to be an effective cure. Just drink a glass of milk mixed with its powder before sleep and experience sound sleep at night.
Moreover, a study has found that those who took ashwagandha root for 12 weeks regularly experienced sound sleep and lesser issues, along with better alertness after waking up.
Alleviates stress and anxiety
One of the major health benefits of Ashwagandha is that it helps to reduce stress levels, tension, and tiredness. You may massage with oil infused with this herb and feel the difference! Moreover, you may have ashwagandha tablets, (after consultation with a medical professional) to experience stress-free living.
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How to take Ashwagandha?
To get the health benefits of this amazing herb, there are several ways to take ashwagandha. To take the proper ashwagandha dosage, you can take ashwagandha pills. But other methods to take it are as follows.
Energy balancing truffles
Ingredients
10 dates, dried and pitted, ½ cup dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1 teaspoon of coconut oil, sesame seeds, and sea salt, 2 teaspoons of ashwagandha powder
Process
Blend ashwagandha and dates into a paste. Roll them into small balls. After heating the chocolate chips and coconut oil, dunk the date balls into the chocolate to coat them. Sprinkle sea salt and sesame seeds and refrigerate them.
Ashwagandha Almond Butter
Ingredients
2 cups of almonds, 1 teaspoon of ghee or coconut oil, and 2 teaspoons of ashwagandha powder
Process
Blend almonds and add ashwagandha powder. Add a small amount of ghee or coconut oil to smoothen the almonds. Refrigerate it in a container.
Cashew Night Tonic
Ingredients
1 cup cashews, soaked overnight,
1 teaspoon maple syrup,
½ teaspoon vanilla bean,
¼ teaspoon nutmeg,
½ teaspoon ashwagandha powder
Process
Blend the soaked cashew in a blender. Add cashew milk, vanilla bean, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sea salt. Now, heat on a high flame and allow it to mix well.
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Side effects of ashwagandha
Studies have proved that ashwagandha is effective and very safe. However, this curative herb has several negative side effects for certain people such as-
Diabetes
It can lower blood sugar levels and may interfere with medications used for diabetes. So, sugar patients should monitor blood sugar regularly before taking ashwagandha.
Stomach ulcers
Studies show that ashwagandha can disturb the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Refrain from taking ashwagandha if you have stomach ulcers.
Pregnant and lactating moms
Ashwagandha can cause miscarriages. There can be no reliable information on whether it is safe for breastfeeding women. Be safe with limited usage.
High or low blood pressure
Ashwagandha shows a negative effect on the patients as it decreases blood pressure and also raises blood pressure. So, take it cautiously if you have blood pressure or take medicine for blood pressure.
Use this beneficial herb carefully to avoid any negative impacts. You will find good results with the proper dosage of ashwagandha.
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