10 Surprising Health Benefits of Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha

• Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera or Indian ginseng, is a plant that has been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic medicine for its therapeutic properties. It is native to India and North Africa and is commonly used as a natural remedy for various health conditions.
• Brief history and traditional uses of Ashwagandha: Ashwagandha has a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine, where it is considered a “rasayana,” or a substance that promotes physical and mental health and longevity. It is used to relieve stress, anxiety, and fatigue, and to improve memory and cognitive function. It is also used to improve fertility and sexual function, as well as to boost the immune system and treat various health conditions such as diabetes and cancer.

1. Ashwagandha – For Stress and Anxiety Reduction

• How Ashwagandha can help reduce stress and anxiety: Ashwagandha is known to have a calming effect on the body, and has been traditionally used to reduce stress and anxiety. It works by lowering levels of the stress hormone cortisol and regulating the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain that are associated with mood and stress response. It is also believed to help the body adapt to stress by strengthening the nervous system.
• Studies and research supporting the effectiveness of Ashwagandha for these issues: Research has shown that Ashwagandha may be effective in reducing symptoms of stress and anxiety. A study of 64 participants with chronic stress showed that those who took Ashwagandha had significantly lower levels of cortisol compared to the placebo group. Other studies have also shown that Ashwagandha can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Additionally, a meta-analysis of studies investigating the use of Ashwagandha in anxiety treatment found that it resulted in a statistically significant reduction in anxiety symptoms and a trend toward improvement in symptoms of depression.

2. Ashwagandha – For Improved Cognitive Function

• The impact of Ashwagandha on brain function: Ashwagandha is believed to improve cognitive function by increasing the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain that are associated with memory and learning. It may also protect the brain from damage caused by inflammation and oxidative stress. Additionally, Ashwagandha can help to improve blood flow to the brain and reduce the decline in cognitive function that can occur with age.
• Studies and research supporting the benefits of Ashwagandha for cognitive function: Research has shown that Ashwagandha can improve cognitive function, memory and other related parameters. One study involving 50 healthy adults found that taking Ashwagandha extract for 8 weeks significantly improved working memory and reaction time. Another study in 50 adults with mild cognitive impairment found that taking Ashwagandha for 12 weeks improved cognitive function and decreased depression and anxiety symptoms. Additionally, a randomized control trial found that supplementing with Ashwagandha for 12 weeks resulted in a statistically significant improvement in memory, attention and executive function. It should be noted that more studies are needed to understand how effective Ashwagandha is for cognitive function improvement.

3. Ashwagandha – For Improved Thyroid Function

• How Ashwagandha can benefit those with thyroid disorders: Ashwagandha is known to have a regulatory effect on the thyroid gland, which controls metabolism, energy levels, and overall health. Ashwagandha is believed to improve the function of the thyroid gland by increasing the levels of thyroid hormones, such as thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Additionally, Ashwagandha is thought to help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the thyroid, which are factors that can contribute to thyroid disorders.
• Studies and research supporting the effectiveness of Ashwagandha for thyroid function: Research has shown that Ashwagandha may be effective in improving thyroid function. A study of people with hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) found that those who took Ashwagandha had a significant increase in levels of T4, T3, and thyrotropin (TSH) compared to the placebo group. Other studies have also found that Ashwagandha may help improve symptoms of hypothyroidism, including fatigue and weight gain. Additionally, A study in women with subclinical hypothyroidism(mild thyroid dysfunction) found that Ashwagandha supplementation led to a significant reduction in thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and an increase in the levels of Free T3 and Free T4.

4. Ashwagandha – For Anti-Inflammatory Properties

• The anti-inflammatory effects of Ashwagandha: Ashwagandha is known to have anti-inflammatory properties, which means it can help reduce inflammation in the body. Inflammation is a natural response of the body to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation is associated with various health conditions such as arthritis, cancer, and heart disease. Ashwagandha is believed to reduce inflammation by inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory molecules, such as cytokines and COX-2 enzymes, and by promoting the activity of anti-inflammatory molecules, such as IL-10.
• Studies and research supporting the anti-inflammatory properties of Ashwagandha: Research has shown that Ashwagandha may be effective in reducing inflammation. A study of people with rheumatoid arthritis found that those who took Ashwagandha had a significant reduction in pain, stiffness, and inflammation compared to the placebo group. Other studies have also found that Ashwagandha may help reduce inflammation in other conditions such as osteoarthritis, cancer and heart disease. Additionally, a study in animal models found that Ashwagandha extract suppressed the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α and IL-6.

5. Ashwagandha – For Improved Cardiovascular Health

• The benefits of Ashwagandha for heart health: Ashwagandha has traditionally been used to improve cardiovascular health. It is believed to help lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, which are all risk factors for heart disease. Ashwagandha is also thought to help protect the heart by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, and by improving blood flow.
• Studies and research supporting the effectiveness of Ashwagandha for cardiovascular health: Research has shown that Ashwagandha may be effective in improving cardiovascular health. A study of people with hypertension (high blood pressure) found that those who took Ashwagandha had a significant reduction in systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure compared to the placebo group. Other studies have also found that Ashwagandha may help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and improve blood flow. Additionally, a study in animal models found that ashwagandha treatment reduced heart rate and arterial blood pressure, and improved the cardiac functions.

Benefits of Ashwagandha

6. Ashwagandha – For Improved Male Fertility

• How Ashwagandha can benefit male fertility: Ashwagandha is believed to improve male fertility by increasing levels of testosterone and luteinizing hormone (LH), and by improving the quality and quantity of sperm. Ashwagandha is thought to improve the function of the testes and the production of testosterone and sperm by stimulating the activity of enzymes and hormones involved in these processes. Additionally, it has been found to have antioxidant properties that can protect the sperm from damage, thus improve the overall health of sperm.
• Studies and research supporting the effectiveness of Ashwagandha for male fertility: Research has shown that Ashwagandha may be effective in improving male fertility. A study of men with infertility found that those who took Ashwagandha had a significant improvement in sperm quality, including sperm count, motility, and morphology, compared to the placebo group. Another study found that supplementation with Ashwagandha root extract resulted in a 167% increase in sperm count, and a 53% increase in sperm motility. Additionally, a study of infertile men found that Ashwagandha helped to increase the levels of testosterone and luteinizing hormone (LH) while decreasing levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) which are important indicators of healthy testicular function and sperm production.

7. Ashwagandha – For Improved Female Fertility

• The impact of Ashwagandha on female fertility: Ashwagandha is believed to improve female fertility by regulating the menstrual cycle and ovulation, as well as by improving the overall health of the uterus. Ashwagandha is thought to help regulate hormonal balance in the body, which can in turn lead to an improvement in ovulation and regular menstrual cycles. It also thought to help nourish and protect the uterus, making it more conducive to pregnancy.
• Studies and research supporting the benefits of Ashwagandha for female fertility: Research has shown that Ashwagandha may be effective in improving female fertility. A study of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) found that those who took Ashwagandha had a significant improvement in ovulation, menstrual regularity, and overall pregnancy rates compared to the placebo group. Another study of women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) found that Ashwagandha supplementation led to a significant increase in the number of mature follicles, which are important for ovulation, and improved the pregnancy rates. Additionally, a study in infertile women found that Ashwagandha root extract treatment increased the levels of thyroid hormones, sex hormones and improved the ovulation rate.

8. Ashwagandha – For Improved Sleep

• How Ashwagandha can help improve sleep: Ashwagandha is believed to improve sleep by reducing stress and anxiety, which can often be a cause of insomnia. It also has the ability to regulate the circadian rhythm and help the body relax, which can lead to a better quality of sleep. Additionally, Ashwagandha has been found to have sedative properties that can help to promote sleep.
• Studies and research supporting the effectiveness of Ashwagandha for sleep: Research has shown that Ashwagandha may be effective in improving sleep. A study of people with insomnia found that those who took Ashwagandha had a significant improvement in sleep quality and sleep latency (the time it takes to fall asleep) compared to the placebo group. Another study found that Ashwagandha root extract led to a significant reduction in time to fall asleep, and an overall improvement of sleep quality. Additionally, a study of people with chronic stress found that Ashwagandha treatment helped reduce insomnia, fatigue, and emotional distress, resulting in an overall better sleep.

9. Ashwagandha – May benefit athletic performance

• How Ashwagandha can benefit athletic performance: Ashwagandha is believed to improve athletic performance by increasing muscle strength, endurance and reducing muscle damage. It is thought to achieve this by increasing the levels of testosterone, growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor-1, which play a key role in muscle growth and recovery. Additionally, Ashwagandha has been found to have antioxidant properties that can protect muscle cells from damage caused by exercise, thus promoting muscle recovery and growth.
• Studies and research supporting the effectiveness of Ashwagandha for athletic performance: Research has shown that Ashwagandha may be effective in improving athletic performance. A study of healthy young men found that those who took Ashwagandha had a significant improvement in muscle strength and endurance compared to the placebo group. Another study found that Ashwagandha root extract led to significant improvement in upper and lower body strength in resistance-trained men. Additionally, a study found that Ashwagandha supplementation resulted in decreased muscle damage, improved muscle recovery and an overall improvement in muscle strength, endurance and power output. It is worth noting that these studies were performed mostly with small groups and more research is needed to fully understand how Ashwagandha impact on athletic performance.

10. Ashwagandha – May Reduce Symptoms of Some Mental Health Conditions

• How Ashwagandha can help reduce symptoms of some mental health conditions: Ashwagandha is believed to help reduce symptoms of some mental health conditions by regulating the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and dopamine, which are involved in mood regulation. It also has adaptogenic properties, which means it can help the body adapt to stress and reduce stress-induced emotional and physical symptoms. Additionally, Ashwagandha has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to protect the brain from damage and deterioration, which can be a contributing factor to mental health conditions.
• Studies and research supporting the effectiveness of Ashwagandha for mental health conditions: Research has shown that Ashwagandha may be effective in reducing symptoms of certain mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia. A study of people with anxiety found that those who took Ashwagandha had a significant improvement in symptoms compared to the placebo group. Another study found that Ashwagandha root extract led to a significant reduction in symptoms of depression. Additionally, a study of people with schizophrenia found that Ashwagandha helped to reduce symptoms of the condition, such as hallucinations and delusions. However, more research is needed to fully understand how Ashwagandha affects various mental health conditions. It’s important to note that Ashwagandha is not a substitute for conventional treatment and should not be used as the sole treatment for serious mental health conditions.

11. Ashwagandha – May reduce blood sugar levels

• How Ashwagandha can help reduce blood sugar levels: Ashwagandha is believed to help reduce blood sugar levels by increasing insulin sensitivity and by promoting the activity of enzymes involved in glucose metabolism. It is thought to achieve this by modulating the activity of genes involved in glucose metabolism and by improving the function of the pancreas, which is responsible for producing insulin. Additionally, Ashwagandha has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to protect the cells of the pancreas from damage, thus promoting healthy insulin production.
• Studies and research supporting the effectiveness of Ashwagandha for reducing blood sugar levels: Research has shown that Ashwagandha may be effective in reducing blood sugar levels. A study of people with type 2 diabetes found that those who took Ashwagandha had a significant reduction in blood sugar levels compared to the placebo group. Another study found that Ashwagandha root extract led to a significant reduction in HbA1c, which is a measure of long-term blood sugar control. Additionally, a study found that Ashwagandha supplementation led to a significant reduction in fasting blood sugar and post-meal blood sugar in patients with metabolic syndrome.

People also ask

What does ashwagandha do for your body?

Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera or Indian ginseng, is a traditional herbal remedy that has been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic medicine for its therapeutic properties. Some of the ways in which Ashwagandha is believed to benefit the body include:

• Reducing stress and anxiety: Ashwagandha is known to have a calming effect on the body and has been traditionally used to reduce stress and anxiety. It works by lowering levels of the stress hormone cortisol and regulating the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain that are associated with mood and stress response.
• Improving cognitive function: Ashwagandha is believed to enhance the activity of neurotransmitters that are involved in memory and learning, such as acetylcholine, by blocking the activity of enzymes that break it down. Additionally, Ashwagandha has been found to promote neurogenesis, the growth of new neurons in the brain.
• Regulating thyroid function: Ashwagandha is known to have a regulatory effect on the thyroid gland, which controls metabolism, energy levels, and overall health. Ashwagandha is believed to improve the function of the thyroid gland by increasing the levels of thyroid hormones, such as thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3).
• Reducing inflammation: Ashwagandha is known to have anti-inflammatory properties, which means it can help reduce inflammation in the body. Inflammation is a natural response of the body to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation is associated with various health conditions such as arthritis, cancer, and heart disease.
• Improving cardiovascular health: Ashwagandha is believed to help lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, which are all risk factors for heart disease.

What happens when you take ashwagandha daily?

When taken daily as directed, Ashwagandha may have various beneficial effects on the body. Some potential effects of taking Ashwagandha daily include:

• Reduced stress and anxiety: Ashwagandha is known for its ability to reduce stress and anxiety, and daily supplementation may lead to a decrease in the levels of the stress hormone cortisol and an improvement in symptoms of anxiety.
• Improved cognitive function: Ashwagandha has been found to promote neurogenesis, the growth of new neurons in the brain and improved memory and learning. Daily supplementation may lead to an improvement in cognitive function.
• Improved thyroid function: Ashwagandha may help regulate the thyroid gland, which controls metabolism, energy levels, and overall health. Daily supplementation may lead to an improvement in thyroid function, including an increase in the levels of thyroid hormones.
• Reduced inflammation: Ashwagandha has anti-inflammatory properties, which means it can help reduce inflammation in the body. Daily supplementation may lead to a reduction in inflammation and a decrease in the risk of certain conditions such as arthritis, cancer, and heart disease.
• Improved cardiovascular health: Ashwagandha may help lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, which are all risk factors for heart disease. Daily supplementation may lead to an improvement in cardiovascular health.
• Improved fertility: Ashwagandha may improve male and female fertility by regulating the menstrual cycle and ovulation, as well as by improving the overall health of the uterus.

Is ashwagandha good for anxiety?

Supplements containing ashwagandha may help reduce stress and anxiety, according to numerous research. In a short trial with 58 participants, those who consumed either 250 or 600 mg of ashwagandha extract daily for eight weeks experienced considerably lower levels of perceived stress and cortisol than those who consumed a placebo.

How do I know if my ashwagandha is working?

It’s a good indication that the ashwagandha is working if you’re feeling more at ease and relaxed. Additionally, you might experience better sleep. Another indication that ashwagandha is working is if you’re getting better sleep and feeling more rested.

Is ashwagandha like a antidepressant?

The same study showed that Ashwagandha can have antidepressant effects comparable to those reported by imipramine in terms of their antidepressant properties. This study could support the use of ashwagandha root-derived medicines as mood stabilisers and for the treatment of anxiety and depression.

Conclusion

• Summarize the surprising health benefits of Ashwagandha: Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera or Indian ginseng, is a traditional herbal remedy with a wide range of potential health benefits. It has been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic medicine for its therapeutic properties, and has been found to have anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and anti-stress properties. It has also been found to have benefits for cognitive function, thyroid function, cardiovascular health, male and female fertility, and sleep.
• Note the importance of consulting with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements: It’s important to note that while Ashwagandha has many potential health benefits, it can also interact with certain medications and may not be appropriate for everyone. Therefore, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any Ashwagandha supplement, especially if you are already taking other medication or have a medical condition.
• Advise to check with a doctor before taking any Ashwagandha supplement, especially if you are already taking other medication or have a medical condition: It’s also important to use a reputable and high-quality supplement, and to be aware of the potential side effects. It’s important to note that, as with any dietary supplement, more research is needed to fully understand the safety and efficacy of ashwagandha. Therefore, individuals should be careful about taking high doses of ashwagandha over a long period of time, and are advised to consult their doctors before starting any supplement regimen.