Let’s start with something interesting: In Sanskrit, Ashwagandha means “horse smell,” owing to its strong horse-like aroma. It is the most popular “adaptogen,” that is, it helps the body relieve stress. Having been used for more than 3,000 years to manage stress, boost energy levels, and develop concentration, it is an ancient Ayurvedic herb with amazing properties as listed below:
1. Helps reduce blood sugar levels
Due to our changing lifestyle, high levels of blood sugar pose a huge problem to public health. Studies have revealed that Ashwagandha helps increase insulin secretion as well as improve insulin sensitivity in muscle cells, thus helping in lowering blood sugar levels.
2. Improves heart health
We all know that “unhealthy fats” are bad for our heart. Ashwagandha helps reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
3. Has potential anticancer properties
A component in Ashwagandha, called withaferin, is involved in disrupting and killing cancer cells. It may even be effective against several types of cancer, including lung, breast, brain, and colon.
4. Helps in reducing inflammation
Inflammation is the swelling, redness, and pain that show up when your body is fighting germs (infections and allergies). Ashwagandha is known to help immune cells that fight infection and thus keeps you healthy.
5. Helps reduce stress and anxiety
It blocks the stress pathway, thus helping in reducing stress and anxiety. Further, it may also help fight depression.
6. Promotes good sleep
Another important property of Ashwagandha is that it encourages healthy sleep patterns and reduces insomnia. It calms mental processes and promotes overall mental health.
7. Potentially boosts memory
Traditionally, it has been used to boost memory and the ability to perform tasks. Some studies have shown that Ashwagandha may ease memory and brain function problems.
8. Can boost fertility in men
A study showed that Ashwagandha increases sperm count and motility. It helps in increasing the levels of testosterone (a male hormone), improving sperm quality, and boosting fertility.
Ashwagandha is a safe, traditional supplement (pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid taking it). Like all good things, this root extract should also be consumed in moderation. Unless you have a serious ailment, try including this in your diet for an overall health benefit.
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