Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) or stunning cheese berry is an evergreen shrub belonging to the family of groundnuts that grows in India, the Middle East and some African countries. Several other species of the ground warbler family are morphologically similar.
Ashwagandha is known as an adaptogen that supports the body’s ability to adapt to stress, providing overall balance and energy.
Ashwagandha is one of the most commonly used herbs in Ayurveda. People have used ashwagandha thousands of years to reduce stress, increase energy levels and improve concentration.
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Ashwagandha is a small shrub with yellow flowers, whose root, leaf extract and powder are used to prevent a variety of ailments (including anxiety and fertility problems). The name ashwagandha describes the smell of the root and means horse.
Research so far confirms a number of potential benefits of Ashwagandha.
- May reduce stress and anxiety. As an adaptogen, it helps the body cope with stress, increases the amount of cortisol in the body.
- May increase physical activity and strength in athletes.
- May reduce symptoms of depression in people with a sensitive nervous system or anxiety disorders.
- May increase testosterone levels in men. Some studies have shown that ashwagandha supplements improve male fertility and increase testosterone levels.
- Can regulate and balance blood sugar levels.
- Ashwagandha contains compounds that help reduce inflammatory processes in the body.
- May improve brain function and memory.
- May improve sleep quality.
- Regulates the menstrual cycle. Stress affects hormonal balance (which is why menstruation can be delayed), fertility problems and activates facial hair growth. Ashwagandha stimulates blood circulation, which in turn regulates the menstrual cycle and thereby improves fertility.
- Stimulates the production of natural oils necessary for the skin, thus reducing the formation of acne and wrinkles and making the skin brighter and more elastic.
- The preparation is safe and without side effects if it is taken in the recommended amount.
What is the daily dose of ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha comes in several forms: gummies, capsules, liquid drops, and powders that can be mixed into drinks.
So, how much ashwagandha should you take per day? Regardless of the form in which it is consumed, the usual dose is 500 mg twice a day.
In some cases, too high doses can cause unpleasant side effects. Before new medicinal plants dietary supplements(including ashwagandha) should be discussed with a healthcare professional (product safety, dosages).
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2024-12-06 06:33:00
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What are the traditional uses of ashwagandha according to Ayurvedic medicine?
## Interview with Dr. Green on the Benefits of Ashwagandha
**Host:** Welcome back to the show, Dr. Green. Today we’re diving into the world of adaptogens, and specifically, one that’s been gaining a lot of attention recently: Ashwagandha. Tell us a little bit about it.
**Dr. Green:** Ashwagandha, also known as *Withania somnifera*, is an evergreen shrub native to India, the Middle East, and parts of Africa. It’s been a cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years. The name actually means “horse smell,” referring to the root’s distinct aroma, which is believed to give the user the strength and vitality of a horse.
**Host:** That’s fascinating. And what are some of the potential benefits of ashwagandha?
**Dr. Green:** Research has begun to validate many of the traditional uses of ashwagandha. As an adaptogen, it helps the body cope with stress by regulating cortisol levels. Studies suggest it can also reduce anxiety and depression symptoms, potentially improve athletic performance and increase energy levels. Some research even indicates it might boost testosterone levels in men and improve fertility.
**Host:** Those are some impressive claims. Is ashwagandha safe for everyone?
**Dr. Green:** As with any supplement, it’s important to talk to your doctor before taking ashwagandha, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medication. While generally considered safe, some people might experience mild side effects like upset stomach or drowsiness.
**Host:** Thank you, Dr. Green, for shedding light on this intriguing herb. For our viewers interested in learning more, we’ll be providing links to reputable sources like [1](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/ashwagandha) in the show notes.
