Ashwagandha is one of the most essential herbs in Ayurveda, which is a form of traditional Indian alternative medicine. Ashwagandha has been utilized for thousands of year to relieve stress, increase energy, and improve concentration. Many people today still rely on this exotic herb to fortify their health and wellness. Here are nine evidence-based health benefits of ashwagandha.
9 Research-Based Health Benefits of Ashwagandha
1.) Reduces Stress & Anxiety
Ashwagandha is best known for its ability to reduce stress. In fact, it’s classified as an adaptogen, which is a substance that helps the body cope with stress. It does this by controlling hormonal stress mediators such as cortisol.
2.) Improves Athletic Performance
Research has recently shown that ashwagandha has beneficial effects on athletic performance, and therefore may be a worthwhile supplement for athletes. Ashwagandha enhances athletic performance primarily by increasing muscular strength.
3.) Reduces Symptoms of Various Mental Health Conditions
Recently, scientific evidence has suggested that ashwagandha can reduce symptoms of mental health conditions in certain populations. Researchers have found it to be very effective on those suffering with depression. In fact, many believe it to be a healthier alternative to anti-depression medication.
4.) Enhances Testosterone & Fertility in Men
Ashwagandha supplements have been proven to be very effective at increasing male fertility and testosterone. In fact, scientists found that ashwagandha was responsible for the increase in sperm concentration, sperm motility, and semen volume in both men with low and normal sperm count.
5.) Reduces Blood Sugar Levels
Though it is limited, some evidence suggests ashwagandha may be beneficial to individuals with diabetes or high blood sugar. It is believed that ashwagandha contains certain compounds that have powerful antidiabetic properties and even stimulate your cells to take in glucose. However, further research is needed at this time.
6.) Reduces Inflammation
Ashwagandha contains anti-inflammatory compounds that work to decrease inflammatory markers in the body. These compounds target inflammation pathways throughout the body, and thus help decrease inflammation, pain, and discomfort across the body.
7.) Improves Brain Function
Taking ashwagandha can improve cognitive function. It can potentially enhance functioning, attention, reaction time, cognitive tasks, immediate and general memory, and information processing. It accomplishes this through the presence of antioxidants.
8.) Improves Sleep
Many people take ashwagandha to promote restful sleep. Since Ashwagandha reduces stress and anxiety, it can promote calm and relaxation, which leads to better sleep. In addition, since it improves cognitive function, it helps users to wake up feeling more alert and energized.
9.) Safe & Widely Available Supplement
The supplement market is extremely crowded and this can make it difficult for consumers to discern which supplements are safe. Fortunately, when it comes to ashwagandha the research affirms its safety claims. In fact, it is safe for the majority of people. However, as with any supplement it is a good idea to check with your primary care physician before taking ashwagandha. If given the green light, ashwagandha is simple to find and purchase.
Sources:
Healthline
Jillian Kubala
Jan. 7, 2022
Health, Wellness, & Restoration 