Awesome Ayurvedic Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a lovely Ayurvedic herb that has been used for thousands of years to ease pain and inflammation, treat insomnia, and boost nutrition, along with other conditions. The root is the most commonly used part of the herb. Ashwagandha is also considered an adaptogen, and can help your body better manage stress. Clinical research in humans has shown ashwagandha to be safe and of benefit in a range of conditions, including stress/anxiety, athletic performance, cognitive function, diabetes, insomnia and male infertility.
A study published in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine found that ashwagandha root extract was able to improve muscle strength and recovery in healthy young men who were undergoing resistance training. Another study published in the Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine found that ashwagandha root extract was able to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression in people with anxiety disorders. A third study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that ashwagandha root extract was able to improve sperm quality in infertile men.
In general, ashwagandha is considered safe for most people when taken as directed. However, pregnant women and people with some preexisting health conditions should talk to their health professional before using ashwagandha.
Overall, Ashwagandha is a wonderful herbal remedy that has been used for centuries. It has been shown to have a range of health benefits and is considered safe for most people when taken as directed.
- Chandrasekhar K et al. A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of a high-concentration full-spectrum extract of ashwagandha root in reducing stress and anxiety in adults. Indian J Psychol Med. 2012 Jul;34(3):255-62.
- Ashwagandha. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/ashwagandha
- Ashwagandha: Health Benefits, Uses, Side Effects & More. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/ashwagandha-uses-and-risks
- Singh N et al. An Overview on Ashwagandha: A Rasayana (Rejuvenator) of Ayurveda. Afr J Tradit Complement Altern Med. 2011;8(5 Suppl):208-13.
- Ashwagandha: A Review of Clinical Use and Efficacy. NMI Health Inc. https://www.nmi.health/ashwagandha-a-review-of-clinical-use-and-efficacy/
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is not meant to replace the advice of your health professional. We always recommend you seek the advice of a registered herbalist or a GP sympathetic to alternative medicine