In today's busy world, where life can be stressful and challenging, people are looking for natural ways to feel better. They are now turning to ancient remedies for solutions, and one such powerful herb gaining attention is Ashwagandha. It's been used in traditional medicine for a long time and is known for its remarkable ability to alleviate stress, enhance energy levels, support anxiety, and improve focus. But there's more to it than its profound impact on mental and physical well-being, captivating the interest of health experts and individuals seeking natural remedies for overall wellness.  Let's explore what are the benefits of Ashwagandha that can make a big difference in our lives.

What Is Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha, scientifically known as Withania somnifera, is a medicinal plant that has been utilized for centuries in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, which originated in India. Often known as "Indian ginseng" or "winter cherry," Ashwagandha is well-known for its adaptogenic characteristics, which permit the body to adapt to stress and maintain a state of balance

The herb is a tiny shrub with yellow blooms and red fruit, and the roots are typically used for therapeutic purposes. Ashwagandha comprises a group of chemicals known as withanolides, which are believed to contribute to its diverse health-promoting properties.

Is Ashwagandha Safe?

When taken in appropriate doses, Ashwagandha is generally well tolerated and safe to use in the short term for up to 3 months of use. However, pregnant women and those with prior health concerns should consult their doctor before using Ashwagandha.

7 Health Benefits of Ashwagandha

1. Combat Stress and Anxiety:

Ashwagandha is renowned for its ability to reduce stress and anxiety naturally. As an adaptogen, it helps the body manage and adapt to stressors more effectively, promoting emotional balance and supporting a calmer state of mind. Some researchers found that when compared to a placebo, consuming 240 milligrams (mg) of ashwagandha daily lowered people's stress levels. This included lower cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress.

2. Improve Sleep Quality:

Struggling with insomnia or poor sleep quality? Ashwagandha has natural sedative properties that can help you enjoy a restful night's sleep. By reducing stress and promoting relaxation, it encourages a healthier sleep pattern and leaves you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. According to certain studies, ashwagandha may also help in boosting the synthesis of GABA, a neurotransmitter that aids in controlling sleep. More precisely, ashwagandha helps people fall asleep more quickly, enhances sleep quality, extends the total time spent asleep, and reduces time spent awake in bed.

3. Enhance Cognitive Function:

One of the other crucial benefits of Ashwagandha is its ability to support brainpower. This potent herb has been shown to improve memory, focus, and overall cognitive performance, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their mental abilities. Ashwagandha could improve cognitive function by raising blood flow to the brain and strengthening neuron communication. It may also lower oxidative stress in the brain, improving memory and cognitive performance.

4. Strengthen Your Immune System:

Ashwagandha is a powerful immune booster, providing your body with the support it needs to fight off illness and maintain optimal health. Increasing the production of white blood cells helps to protect your immune system and keep you feeling your best. It is also a rich source of healthy inflammatory properties, containing bioactive compounds that help reduce the expansion of pro-inflammatory molecules. This decreases inflammation in the human body, resulting in a stronger immune system.

5. Increase Energy Levels and Stamina:

Another health benefit of Ashwagandha is it can combat fatigue and enhance your energy levels. This revitalizing herb helps to improve endurance and stamina, giving you the energy boost you need to power through your day and perform at your best. It can increase energy levels and stamina by enhancing physical performance and reducing stress-induced fatigue. This is due to its ability to adapt to stressors, regulate cortisol levels, and improve mitochondrial function, which leads to increased ATP production and energy levels. 

6. Support Hormonal Balance and Reproductive Health:

Ashwagandha has been found to help balance hormones, making it an excellent choice for both men and women. For women, studies show it can help alleviate symptoms of hormonal imbalances such as PMS and menopause. For men, studies show it can improve testosterone levels and support overall reproductive health. It may do this by decreasing the release of stress hormones like cortisol while boosting the production of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), all of which are essential for good reproductive function. 

7. Promote Healthy Weight Management:

Incorporating Ashwagandha into your daily routine can help support healthy weight management. By reducing cortisol levels and regulating stress, it can help prevent stress-related weight gain and encourage a healthier relationship with food. Ashwagandha has high levels of antioxidants, which are necessary for weight loss and overall health. These antioxidants boost your metabolism, ease inflammation, and help your body burn stored fat.

Considerations Associated with Ashwagandha Use

Perhaps harmful during pregnancy

Certain ashwagandha substances can trigger miscarriage, premature birth, or even uterine contractions. Ashwagandha cannot be considered safe during pregnancy because it has abortifacient properties, which means it may cause miscarriage.

It Could Harm The Liver

According to studies, people who used commercial herbal medicines containing ashwagandha experienced liver damage. However, the herb's mechanism in this regard remains unknown.

Might Reduce Blood Sugar

 It has been shown that ashwagandha can lower blood sugar levels. However, this may not be a smart choice if you are taking medication for diabetes. The plant may result in blood sugar levels that are dangerously low. As a result, additional issues could develop.

Potentially Lead to Dry Mouth

Overdosing on ashwagandha can result in dry mouth in certain individuals. It's best to be careful and see your doctor if the issue arises, even though there isn't sufficient proof.

Possible Cause Of Fever

Some people may notice a rise in their body temperature after taking ashwagandha. The mechanism by which this occurs, however, is unknown. The high body temperature is expected to return to normal within a few days. If you are experiencing a high body temperature for whatever reason, see your doctor before using ashwagandha.

Might Make Hyperthyroidism Worse

Hyperthyroidism is a disorder when too many thyroid hormones are in the blood. According to studies, ashwagandha can enhance thyroid hormone levels. As a result, individuals with hyperthyroidism may experience unpleasant symptoms.

Individuals with hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) need to seek medical counsel before using ashwagandha, as the herb could interact with their medications.

How To Take Ashwagandha Supplements

Consuming Ashwagandha Powder: 

• The strong flavor of ashwagandha powder might make it difficult to consume. However, a common method is to prepare tea or a hot drink.

• Take one quarter to half a teaspoon of ashwagandha powder (you can increase the amount gradually). Next, mix it into hot oat milk with a teaspoon of vanilla extract and stir. It makes a delicious drink to relax before bed.

• Adding Ashwagandha to your favorite smoothie is a quick way to include it. Whether it's a strawberry shake or kale and ginger, put 3-6g into the blender for an extra health boost.

• You could also blend it with fruit juice. Pour 250ml of your preferred fruit juice (orange, apple, etc.) into a glass and mix with the ashwagandha powder. Don't forget to give it a thorough swirl or pour it into a bottle and shake! Ensure the powder is evenly distributed throughout and that there is no residue at the bottom.

Consuming Ashwagandha Tablets

Depending on the problem you intend to treat with Ashwagandha, you may consume it throughout the day, at night, or both. However, make sure that you choose tablets from a reliable supplier like Sri Sri Tattva Ashwagandha tablets.

• Ashwagandha tablets are usually consumed with meals. This can improve absorption and lessen stomach discomfort. 

• 1-2 pills of Ashwagandha can be consumed after meals. 

• It can be taken 2-3 times daily with water or heated milk. 

Confused about where to buy Ashwagandha? Shop Sri Sri Tattva’s premium Ashwagandha products and begin your journey to optimal well-being today.