Ashwagandha, also commonly called “Indian Winter cherry” or “Indian Ginseng”, is a popular medicine that has been a part of the traditional medicinal system of India for thousands of years. Every part of this shrub has functional properties that can be used in some way. Traditionally, this therapeutic herb is classified as a Rasayana i.e. it helps in maintaining youth, both physically and mentally and thus leads to longer lifespan. According to modern medicine, it belongs to a family of plants called adaptogens which not only helps in adapting the body to stress but also relieves anxiety and stress.
Health benefits and uses of Ashwagandha
Due to the immense medicinal benefits of ashwagandha, it is used against different ailments. It can be consumed in the form of powders, teas, tinctures, supplements, or even in its raw form. However, ashwagandha churna, which is the fine powder form of this herb made from its roots, is the most common form owing to its healing effects and can be taken after mixing it with water, honey or ghee. The uses of ashwagandha powder are endless because of its unique medical properties. The phytochemicals present in this herb makes ashwagandha so beneficial and meaningful in medicine. Different plant parts including roots, seeds, leaves and even fruits are used for treatment in a number of conditions.
1. Anxiety and Stress
As ashwagandha is categorised as an adaptogen, it can help the body to cope with stress and can control associated symptoms. The calming effects of this herb has the ability to alleviate stress and boost the functioning of the brain. Studies have also shown that ashwagandha can help reduce the levels of stress hormones (cortisol) and improve the quality of sleep.
Refer to article – Top 10 Natural supplements for stress relief
2. Inflammation
Ashwagandha is also said to have anti-inflammatory properties that can effectively help to reduce the inflammation caused by any infection and arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis, and relieve the pain related to it.
3. Heart Health
Regular consumption of ashwagandha powder benefits the heart and keeps it healthy. It can help enhance VO2 max levels (maximum amount of oxygen a person’s body can utilise in an intense physical activity), lower high blood pressure and cholesterol, prevent heart diseases and relieve chest pains.
4. Male Infertility
Some studies have shown that ashwagandha can boost male fertility and testosterone levels in men. As it is effective in lowering stress, it also helps to reduce the male infertility induced by stress. In addition, certain researches have also shown improvements in sperm count, quality and motility.
5. Blood Sugar Levels
In diabetic patients, ashwagandha can help regulate the insulin production in the body and improve insulin sensitivity. Use of ashwagandha extracts over time leads to insulin secretion in the blood, thus storing less harmful sugars in the body and resulting in lower blood sugar levels.
Refer to article – Top 10 Natural supplements for diabetes
6. Brain Functioning
Ashwagandha may also improve the overall brain and cognitive functioning including strengthening of memory, sharpening of focus, better retention power and attention span, and enhancing the ability to grasp, respond and perform tasks.
7. Stamina and Immunity
In the modern sedentary lifestyle where people cannot find appropriate time to engage in a physical activity, ashwagandha can be a go-to solution for building muscle strength, increasing stamina and developing immunity. As an immunomodulator, ashwagandha churna benefits both children and adults alike to boost the immune system.
8. Insomnia
If a person suffers from sleeplessness, the sleep-inducing properties of ashwagandha can help with sleep issues and promote peaceful sleep. It also significantly increases the alertness of people after waking up from slumber and decreases their anxiety levels.
9. Skin Health
The antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of ashwagandha makes it a promising herb for good skin by protecting it from acne and infections. It moisturises dry skin, cleanses dirt from pores, heals any acne or cuts, and stimulates collagen to prevent ageing.
The multiple health benefits of this ancient herb makes it a widely used supplement amongst the masses for treating a range of conditions. As mentioned above, the benefits of ashwagandha powder are substantial and contribute to one’s overall health. Research suggests that the results of taking ashwagandha may not be immediate, but it provides aid in managing a lot of problems over passage of time.
Lifekart’s Stress Relief Kit
The prominent ingredients of Lifekart’s Stress Relief Kit are Ashwagandha and St. John’s Wort which together help in promoting the overall wellness of the body and mind. This 100% natural and herbal combination helps in reducing cortisol levels which in turn helps in relieving stress and anxiety. It also has a calming effect on the body that aids in promoting sound and restful sleep.
