The health benefits of ashwagandha and its medicinal uses.
Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb used for over 3000 years in Ayurveda, the ancient Indian
form of medicine.
It is also known as Indian Ginseng, and is used in powdered form to treat many different
health problems.
In today's video we will explore 20 facts and benefits of Ashwagandha, and explain how
it affects the human body.
1. Stress Relief Ashwagandha is one of the best herbs in the
world for lowering stress levels in the body. It contains natural chemicals called withanolides
which help your body adapt to stress and support healthy adrenal glands. Taking this in a supplement
daily helps to regulate your stress hormone called cortisol.
2. Anxiety If you suffer with anxiety, nervousness and
emotional pressure then you may wish to use ashwagandha to calm the mind. Studies show
that this is a great natural alternative to anxiety drugs and can help you to think more
clearly and feel more relaxed.
3. Longevity In India people have been consuming ashwagandha
tea for thousands of years. It is well known in Eastern cultures to help expand the lifespan
and improve overall wellness. This and other adaptogenic herbs like tulsi (holy basil)
are used for their anti-aging properties and keeping hormones in balance.
4. Immunity A large percentage of people in the world
suffer with chronic stress which can weaken the immune system. This makes you more likely
to become infected by viruses, bacteria and other invaders. Adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha
support a strong immune system by lowering stress levels and make you less likely to
catch a cold.
5. Menopause Women can take adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha
to help ease the symptoms of menopause. It helps to naturally reduce hot flashes, night
sweats and mood swings because it supports healthy adrenal glands during the change.
We also recommend cutting out coffee and refined sugars during this time.
6. Energy If you often feel tired or fatigued then taking
ashwagandha can help. It is a powerful natural remedy to support higher energy levels, making
you feel more alert and motivated. Many athletes take this herb when exercising or performing
sports, as it has been shown to increase stamina and endurance.
7. Muscle Growth If you are trying to grow larger muscles by
weight lifting and exercising, then taking ashwagandha can speed up the process. Research
shows that men who took 750-1250mg of ashwagandha root per day gained more muscle strength and
size than those who did not. It also helped to burn off more body fat by lowering the
fat storage hormone called insulin.
8. Thyroid Health Medical studies show that ashwagandha helps
to balance thyroid hormones including TSH and T4. The herb helps to modulate the gland
which can be helpful for those suffering with Hashimoto's, Graves' disease, Hyper or Hypothyroidism.
A healthy thyroid helps to keep body temperature under control.
9. Brain Health Ashwagandha helps to protect the brain cells
from degeneration with age, and has the potential to protect against Alzheimer's, Parkinson's
and other neurodegenerative diseases. The powerful antioxidants in this herb help to
improve cognitive function by boosting memory, concentration and mental focus.
10. Sexual Health By helping to balance hormones, ashwagandha
supports healthy testosterone levels in both men and women. It was mentioned in the Kama
Sutra and works as a natural aphrodisiac for both women and men, helping to improve sexual
health and fertility. Research studies also show that this increases sperm count naturally
in men.
11. Blood Sugars We recommend taking ashwagandha, Maca Root
or Ginseng to help lower high blood sugars, especially if you suffer with diabetes. Keeping
blood sugar levels under control improves mood, makes you feel more calm, relaxed and
less likely to crave junk foods.
12. Anti-Cancer Ashwagandha contains another natural compound
called withaferin which can help to destroy cancerous cells. Although more research is
currently required, early animal studies suggest that withaferin triggers apoptosis, where
cancer cells essentially self-destruct.
13. Depression As mentioned earlier, ashwagandha supports
brain health, helps to balance hormones and helps to regulate blood sugar. This combined
effect helps those suffering with depression and mood disorders, by making you feel more
energetic and happy throughout the day.
14. Sleep Many herbal companies add a little ashwagandha
root into natural sleeping pill products, because it helps to relax the mind, especially
at night. This adaptogenic herb helps to regulate the natural waves of hormones in the brain
like serotonin, so that you can enjoy a more relaxing night's sleep. High quality sleep
of at least 7-8 hours a day is essential for a healthy body and mind.
15. Menstrual Cycle Women who suffer with irregular periods or
PCOS can take this to regulate their hormone levels and treat discomfort. By supporting
the balance of hormones in the body, adaptogens like ashwagandha can help to restore the menstrual
cycle and reduce cramps, PMS and excessive pain. We also recommend following a healthy
low carb diet for these problems such as keto.
16. Blood Pressure By lowering stress levels and helping the
body adapt to stress, ashwagandha may also lower blood pressure naturally if it is too
high. Taking these kind of herbs and cutting out sugars and refined grains is a great way
to protect your heart and promote healthy blood flow around the body. The blood may
then nourish your billions of cells with oxygen and nutrients.
17. Anti-Inflammatory Studies show that taking ashwagandha root
lowers inflammation in the body, helping to protect against inflammatory diseases like
heart disease, bursitis, arthritis, skin disorders and macular degeneration. Consuming lots of
plant based foods and omega 3 fatty acids are always recommended to keep inflammation
at bay.
18. Origins Ashwagandha is actually a small evergreen
shrub with the botanical name 'Withania somnifera'. This is native to India and Southeast Asia.
The roots and berries, and sometimes leaves of the plant are dried and ground into ashwagandha
powder, or extracts are made to make supplement capsules, teas and tinctures. It is sometimes
labelled as Indian Ginseng. It is said to have a strong "horse like" smell and historically
was said to give you the strength and power of a horse.
19. Dosage There are many supplements available on the
market, most of which come in pill form or powdered form. Always check the labels for
correct dosage, which is usually between 1000-1500mg per day.
20. Side Effects This should not be taken when undergoing surgery,
as it could interact with anaesthesia. It should also be avoided if you are suffering
with a stomach ulcer, type 1 diabetes, or during pregnancy. Always consult a doctor
or herbal practitioner before using herbal medicines, especially if you are currently
undergoing treatment or taking medications.
As you can see ashwagandha is one of nature's most powerful adaptogenic herbs for calming
the body and restoring a healthy balance.
Investing in high quality natural supplements is a wonderful way to boost your health and
heal your body.
In our other videos we discuss the benefits of many other super foods, especially herbs
spices and tonics.
To learn more about nutrition and herbal medicines, please see our other videos.
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