Scientific Studies On Ashwagandha Adaptogenic / Anti
Aswagandha is compared well with Eleutherococcus senticosus and Panax Ginseng in its adaptogenic properties, and hence it is popularly known as Indian Ginseng . The extensive studies on the biological model of animals for the adaptogenic / anti-stress properties of Ashwagandha have shown it to be effective in increasing the stamina and preventing stress induced gastric ulcer, carbon tetrachloride induced hepatotoxicity and mortality. Ashawagandha have similar anti-stress activity in rats . An aqueous suspension of Ashwagandha root was used at 100 mg/kg/oral dosage. The results indicate a significant increase in the plasma corticosterone level, phagocytic index and avidity index in rats subjected to cold swimming stress. In the rats pretreated with the drug, these parameters were near control values and an increase in the swimming time was observed. These results indicate that Withania somnifera used in the crude form is a potent anti-stress agent. The results of above studies lend support to the hypothesis of tonics, vitalizers and rejuvenators of Ayurveda which indicate clinical use of Withania somnifera in the prevention and treatment of many stress induced diseases like arteriosclerosis, premature ageing, arthritis, diabetes, hypertension and malignancy .
Who Should Consider Supplementing With Ashwagandha
Consider using ashwagandha if you are:
- Suffering from tremendous amounts of stress.
- Looking to naturally ramp up your natural testosterone production.
- Experiencing decreased libido.
- Trying to bust through a training plateau.
Avoid using ashwagandha if you are:
- Pregnant.
- Suffering from a stomach ulcer.
- Scheduled for surgery.
- Lowest effective dose for acute usage: 300-500mg.
- Optimal dose: 6,000mg/day split into 3 doses .
- Should be taken with meals .
Whether its in pill or powder form, the preferred form of ashwagandha is root extract.
The active ingredients in ashwagandha are flavonoids called withanolides. Any ashwagandha supplement worth your time should have at least 4% withanolides.
Before You Take Ashwagandha
Talk to your doctor before taking any herbal supplement. They could cause problems with other medications youâre taking. And they may not be safe if youâre pregnant or have certain health conditions.
African Journal of Traditional, Complimentary, and Alternative Medicine: âAn Overview on Ashwagandha: A Rasayana of Ayurveda.â
PLoS One: âNaturopathic care for anxiety: a randomized controlled trial,â âTriethylene glycol, an active component of Ashwagandha leaves, is responsible for sleep induction.â
Mayo Clinic: âHerbal supplements: What to know before you buy.â
Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine: âEffect of Withania somnifera root extract on amelioration of oxidative stress and autoantibodies production in collagen-induced arthritic rats.â
Indian Journal of Medical Research: âEfficacy & safety evaluation of Ayurvedic treatment in rheumatoid arthritis patients: a pilot prospective study.â
Journal of Alternative and Complimentary Medicine: âAn Alternative Treatment for Anxiety: A Systematic Review of Human Trial Results Reported for the Ayurvedic Herb Ashwagandha .â
Andrologia: âComparative evaluation of the effects of Withania somnifera with pentoxifylline on the sperm parameters in idiopathic male infertility: A triple-blind randomised clinical trial.â
FDA: âQuestions and Answers on Dietary Supplements.â
The University of Texas at El Paso: âHerbal safety.â
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It Prevents The Progression Of Gout
One of the main indicators of gout is the progressive deterioration of cartilage
. This takes place as a result of a series of metabolic events that deteriorate the tissue over time.
An experiment aimed at determining the effects of Withania somnifera on gout-related enzymes was carried out using a suitable animal model of gout.
It was seen that on treatment with powdered Withania somnifera root, there was significant reduction in swelling.
The levels of gout-related enzymes- beta-glucuronidase and lactate dehydrogenase levels, which are generally high under diseased conditions were reverted to normal levels.
This shows that the cartilage strength and density is preserved by the metabolic regulatory activity of Withania somnifera (ashwagandha0.
What does this mean? From the above mentioned study it can be understood that the administration of root powder of Withania sominfera on the onset of gout would be highly beneficial. It manages enzyme levels and relieves damage caused to tissues.
Ashwagandha For Sperm Motility
Sperm motility is as essential as sperm count, and maintaining it is a precursor to having a good sex drive. Sperm motility refers to the ability of the sperm to move freely. Healthy sperm must swim at the speed of 25 micrometres per second, and Ashwagandha helps with the same.
Reduced motility decreases the chances of getting pregnant. Research conducted in 2018 found that Ashwagandha is good for the male reproductive system and can enhance sperm motility, sperm count, and semen quality.
As a result, the chances of getting pregnant increase manifold. However, further study on the topic is needed to come to a more precise conclusion on the effect of Ashwagandha on sperm motility.
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Research Proves Ashwagandha Highly Effective For Arthritis
Ashwagandha is a multipurpose herb well known to strengthen the body physically and ease arthritis symptoms. Both the ancient Ayurvedic manuscripts and modern scientific research consider it the best remedy for Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis .1 If youre searching for a natural alternative to conventional arthritis treatments, consider Ashwagandha for arthritis.
Today, more than 50 million American adults are suffering from arthritis. Common analgesics such as ibuprofen, diclofenac, paracetamol are used to aid in reducing symptoms. But these drugs dont give long lasting relief.
In fact, if taken for a long period of time they can have severe side effects including stomach pain, ulceration, heartburn, allergic reactions, liver problem, kidney problems and high blood pressure. Joint replacement to alleviate arthritis has its own complications. Today, over 100 types of arthritis are known in which the most common forms are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Ashwagandha, due to its proven effectiveness, is a supplement of choice for arthritis.
What does the Ayurvedic classical text say about Ashwagandha?
In Ayurveda, Ashwagandha is considered a rejuvenator effective in many conditions including vata-kaphaja disorders as well as inflammation .2
It Regulates Immune System Activity
Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease.
Hence to observe positive results faster one needs to bring about changes in the diet along with consumption of prescribed medications.
Studies suggest that Withaniasomnifera has the ability to suppress the activity of the immune system which can be highly beneficial in the treatment of autoimmune diseases like Lupus.
A study published in International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research mentioned that root extracts from Withaniasomnifera, when administered in powdered form, show that it has a modulatory effect on the immune system.
It also delays hypersensitivity reactions .
What does this mean? Ashwagandha is a natural immunomodulator. Hence it can play an essential role in management and prevention of Lupus.
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Ashwagandha Side Effects And Safety
Possible side effects of ashwagandha include:
- Feeling dizzy or light-headed
- Excessive production of stomach acid
- Stomach and intestinal discomfort
- Increased thyroid hormone levels
Therefore, individuals taking medication for diabetes, hypertension, or thyroid disorders should talk to a healthcare provider before using ashwagandha. People with stomach ulcers should also talk to a healthcare provider before using this herb.
Consumers should stop ashwagandha use two weeks before surgery as it may interfere with certain medications used during surgery. It can also interact with various other medications that affect the central nervous system or immune system. It is considered unsafe to use ashwagandha during pregnancy.
We recommend consulting a physician before using ashwagandha or any other supplement for the first time.
Ashwagandha Benefits For Erectile Dysfunction
When men face difficulties in getting and maintaining strong erections, all hail Ashwagandha benefits. ED is usually caused due to the lack of blood flow to the penis due to cortisol . Studies conclude that Ashwagandha naturally dilates blood vessels, improves blood circulation in the body by stimulating nitric oxide production.
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What Is Ashwagandha And What Are Its Benefits
Ashwagandha is a common name for Withaniasomnifera which is widely used as an ingredient in Ayurveda.
The plant is cultivated in various parts of India and presents a variety of health benefits.
The roots of ashwagandha are rich sources of nutrients. They also have potent healing properties that can be beneficial even for topical application.
The absence of any adverse safety concerns of Ashwagandha makes it a potential agent for treatment of a variety of diseases.
We will now learn how Ashwagandha can benefit Lupus patients.
Dietary Interventions In Ra
With the increasing evidence of altered microbiota in the gut of RA patients being responsible for pathogenesis as well as disease progression , it should be desirable for rheumatologists to advocate a supplemental diet therapy to RA patients. Various dietary plans for RA have been reported since long and are being repeatedly projected , such as medically supervised 710 days fasting , vegan or Mediterranean diets . We hereby discuss the reported dietary interventions that clearly indicate clinically and statistically significant and beneficial long-term effects for relieving symptoms, delay in disease progression and associated damages in RA patients. The outcomes of published randomized clinical trials performed on RA patients to observe the effect of various dietary interventions have been summarized in Table 1. A pictorial representation of effects put by various factors on progression/remission of RA is depicted in Figure 1.
Table 1. Summary of clinical trials of various dietary interventions in rheumatoid arthritis .
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Effect On Central Nervous System Cognition Promoting Effect
Ashwagandha is a well known Ayurvedic Rasayana, and belongs to a sub-group of Rasayanas known as Medhyarasayanas. Medhya typically refers to the mind and mental/intellectual capacity. Thus, Medhya Rasayana like Ashwagandha, is used to promote intellect and memory. The cognition-promoting effect of Medhya Rasayanas is best seen in children with memory deficits, or when memory is compromised following head injury, or a prolonged illness and in old age .
Proven Health Benefits Of Ashwagandha
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Ashwagandha is an ancient medicinal herb.
Its classified as an adaptogen, meaning that it can help your body manage stress.
Ashwagandha also provides numerous other benefits for your body and brain.
For example, it can boost brain function, lower blood sugar and cortisol levels, and help fight symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Here are 12 benefits of ashwagandha that are supported by science.
Ashwagandha is one of the most important herbs in Ayurveda, a form of alternative medicine based on Indian principles of natural healing.
It has been used for over 3,000 years to relieve stress, increase energy levels, and improve concentration .
Ashwagandha is Sanskrit for smell of the horse, which refers to both its unique smell and ability to increase strength.
Its botanical name is Withania somnifera, and its also known by several other names, including Indian ginseng and winter cherry.
The ashwagandha plant is a small shrub with yellow flowers thats native to India and North Africa. Extracts or powder from the plants root or leaves are used to treat a variety of conditions.
Many of its health benefits are attributed to its high concentration of withanolides, which have been shown to fight inflammation and tumor growth .
In several studies, ashwagandha has been shown to lower blood sugar levels.
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Types Usage And Dosage
Ashwagandha supplements are widely available online and in health food or vitamin stores. Wonder how to take ashwagandha?
The most popular form of the herb is the root extract, but leaf extracts are also available. You can find the extracts in capsule and powder forms. The root and even the leaves are often used to make ashwagandha tea.
When purchasing ashwagandha supplements, make sure theyre standardized for human consumption. The withanolide content should range from 1 percent to 10 percent, but not all supplements are labeled with this information.
Purchasing a high-quality supplement produced with gold-star standards is the best way to guarantee you get a product high in withanolides. The higher the withanolide content, the stronger the effects of the supplement.
Of course, organic ashwagandha is preferable to non-organic.
When supplementing with an organic ashwagandha power or other product, the general recommendation is starting with 300 to 500 milligrams per day, with withanolides in a range of 5 percent to 10 percent. Slowly increase your ashwagandha dosage, watching for potential adverse effects.
Many supplements recommend between 1,0001,500 milligrams per day at full dosage. Various sources claim the optimal ashwagandha dosage to take may be as high as 6,000 milligrams each day.
Its smart to do this under the guidance of your naturopathic practitioner or health care provider, and when to take ashwagandha depends on why you are taking it.
Ashwagandha’s Side Effects In A Nutshell
We must take any form of alternate medication with care after a proper diagnosis. Especially in cases where you have problems associated with the kidneys, heart, or blood sugar, it is essential to have an informed perspective and understand all possible alternative healing indications. It is vital to seek assistance and wean yourself off the supplement gradually since ashwagandha withdrawal effects, although not pronounced, may be experienced. Observe signs in the body and what happens when you stop taking Ashwagandha. If you notice anything extreme or odd, consult your physician immediately.
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Effect On Neurodegenerative Diseases Such As Parkinson’s Huntington’s And Alzheimer’s Diseases
In patients with Alzheimer’s disease, neuritic atrophy and synaptic loss are considered the major causes of cognitive impairment, as based on the results of neuropathological post-mortem studies of the brain . In the brains of patients suffering from other neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and Creutzfeldt- Jakob disease, the atrophy of neurites has also been observed as a significant part of the etiology. There are dozens of studies that show that Ashwagandha slows, stops, reverses or removes neuritic atrophy and synaptic loss. Therefore Ashwagandha can be used to treat Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s and other neurodegenerative diseases at any stage of the disease, even before a person has been diagnosed and is still in the state of mild forgetfulness, etc. Glycowithanolides withaferin- A and sitoindosides VIIX isolated from the roots of Ashwagandha significantly reversed ibotenic acid induced cognitive defects in Alzheimer’s disease model .
Ashwagandha has been described as a nervine tonic in Ayurveda and that is why it is a common ingredient of Ayurvedic tonic. Tonics, rejuvenators and vitalizers of Ayurveda appear to allay disease and induce immunity and longevity in the users.
Helps Reduce Anxiety And Stress
One of the most popular reasons to incorporate ashwagandha into your diet is due to anti-anxiety powers! Anxiety is a prolific issue in our societyaffecting 40 million adults in the United States age 18 and older, or 18.1% of the population every year.
The anxiety-reducing powers of ashwagandha are two-fold: decreasing anxiety, while also regulating and decreasing stress. In studies, ashwagandha has been found to regulate chemical signaling in the nervous system, thereby balancing stress reactions. Othercontrolled human studies have shown that it can reduce symptoms in people with stress and anxiety disorders, including those with chronic stress and anxiety conditions.
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Side Effects Of Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is a natural remedy. Hence, it has little to no side effects. However, the side effects of Ashwagandha can be observed when it is consumed excessively or in an improper dosage. Some of them are:
- Ashwagandha must not be consumed by hyperthyroidism patients but is often prescribed for individuals with hypothyroidism.
- Ashwagandha may affect blood pressure levels. People with low blood pressure should avoid its consumption.
Ashwagandha Benefits For Men
As the world sees an increase in the number of cases of people contracting illnesses more efficiently, it is also experiencing a trend where the population is more receptive to alternate medication than treatment and prevention. Among the various healing and restorative herbs, Ashwagandha enjoys a place of great prominence and effect.
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When To Talk To Your Healthcare Provider
Before starting a new supplement, discuss your medical history with your healthcare professional, including any medications you are taking. This can reduce your risk of side effects or safety issues. If you experience side effects while taking ashwagandha, check in with your provider and stop taking the supplement if your symptoms worsen
Which Ashwagandha Dosage Is Right For You
Ashwagandha, also known as Indian ginseng, poison gooseberry or Indian winter cherry, is known to be a broad-spectrum remedy that has positive effects on many bodily systems, including the immune, neurological, endocrine and reproductive systems. What does the latest research tell us about ashwagandha benefits?
This powerful herb can help a wide range of conditions and symptoms, such as anxiety, restlessness, high blood pressure and fatigue. So if youre looking to increase your energy, improve your mood and fight the effects of aging, what is the proper ashwagandha dosage?
Based on factors like your current health, age, the severity of your symptoms and how familiar with taking adaptogen herbs you are, ashwagandha dosage recommendations can vary considerably. When it comes to all herbal remedies, its best to start low and slow. This way you can safely test your reaction and determine the dose that works best.
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The Herb That Keeps Joints Healthy & Mobile
Along with those key components, theres also a specific adaptogenic herb that can significantly aid in keeping joints healthy and mobile: Withania somnifera, or as it is known in the ancient Ayurvedic healing system, ashwagandha.
In Ayurvedic medicine, a select group of herbs like ashwagandha are labeled adaptogens because they have been shown to help the body adapt to a changing environment. In particular, they chemically reduce the detrimental effects of stress and promote an overall balance of chemistry within the body.
I firmly believe that adaptogens as a whole are one of the most overlooked secrets when it comes to preserving energy levels, rejuvenating the body, and dealing with a wide-ranging list of health complaints and stress-related illnesses.