Don’t let the funny name fool you; Ashwagandha is one of the most powerful herbs in Ayurvedic medicine. Also known as Indian ginseng, Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera) offers numerous benefits to both the body and the mind. In fact, that’s what helped it earn its name – which in Sanskrit means “smell of a horse” – as it is believed to give vitality and the strength of a stallion to the user.
Found in dryer regions of India, Africa and the Mediterranean, Ashwagandha is one of several plants that are part of the adaptogenic family of herbs. It work with our adrenal systems to help our bodies adapt to physical, chemical and environmental stressors – to which we’re exposed every day. So it stands to reason most of us can benefit from the many advantages of this wondrous herb.
Ashwagandha has been used for centuries to treat a variety of conditions ranging from immune issues to neurological disorders to even hair loss; here are five great reasons to add it to your daily regimen:
Adrenal Support
Our adrenal glands are the work horses of the body; too much stress can cause adrenal fatigue and/or burnout, leading to sluggishness, insomnia, weight gain, endocrine abnormalities, mood issues and a host of related problems. Ashwagandha gently supports the adrenals by working to restore normal cortisol levels throughout the day. In helping to reduce the effects of stress, the herb shows its strength by preventing post-workout slumps and increasing overall energy and endurance as well. It has also been shown in clinical trials to reduce anxiety by lowering elevated levels of our stress hormone, cortisol.
Thyroid Balancing
Ashwagandha’s adaptogenic properties help it modulate the endocrine system, supporting both underactive (hypo-) and overactive (hyper-) thyroids. It’s been shown to have a regulating effect on the secretion of two main types of thyroid hormones – T4, a storage hormone, and T3, the active thyroid hormone. While it may not take the place of thyroid replacement medication, the herb may provide some relief from common symptoms of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism due to its balancing effects.
Mood Enhancement
There’s also some evidence that suggests Ashwagandha helps the brain and is effective at treating both anxiety and depression, possibly by enhancing levels of the brain chemical norepinephrine. In one study, the calming effect of Ashwagandha on rats was shown to be equal to that produced by the prescription anti-anxiety medicine lorazepam – sold under the trade name Ativan. Researchers concluded that the use of Ashwagandha was supported for the treatment of both clinical anxiety and depression.1
Anti-Inflammatory
Older adults, as well as anyone suffering from mild to moderate joint pain, may benefit from Ashwagandha as well. As an anti-inflammatory, it’s shown effectiveness in easing the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. Its anti-inflammatory effects have also been shown to be beneficial for skin issues such as psoriasis and eczema. Choose a diet abundant in anti-inflammatory foods to further relieve skin issues, arthritic pain and stress on the joints.
Anti-Oxidant
Many chronic, debilitating conditions can be caused or exacerbated by free-radicals, highly reactive altered oxygen molecules that can weaken and destruct practically any cells of the body. One of the easiest ways to combat the destruction of free radicals is to ensure your diet/supplement program includes adequate supplies of antioxidants. While fruits and vegetables – especially those grown organically – contain high levels of antioxidants, supplements such as Ashwagandha can boost anti-oxidant activity as well.
Dosage
Ashwagandha’s benefits can come at varying doses typically ranging from 500mg-1500mg of a high quality standardized extract. For most people taking Ashwagandha I recommend 1000mg in the morning. For those suffering from sleep problems related to cortisol and stress hormones I recommend taking the 1000mg before bed. Visit my online store to see my recommended organic Ashwagandha product.
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In Ayurvedic, Indian, and Unani medicine, ashwagandha is described as “Indian ginseng.” Ashwagandha is also used in traditional African medicine for a variety of ailments.