Unless you’re some health buff, sticking to healthy lifestyle ideals is 100 percent impossible. Yes, we’ll gladly have fruit salads for breakfast, but no, we won’t be completely doing away with our favorite alcohol or caffeine brand. An apt description, right?
Now, if you agree that the right lifestyle choices are worth considering, then we have some good news: Ashwagandha can have you feeling and looking mentally and physically healthy. You see, with this ancient herb, you may not even need a total life overhaul.
The plant commonly referred to as ‘Indian Ginseng’ grows not just in India, but in the United States of America, the Middle East, and some parts of Africa. From reducing blood sugar levels, lowering cortisol levels, providing resistance to cancer, ashwagandha can make a big difference to your well-being in the long-run.
Here, we compiled a list of the health benefits of Ashwagandha, so listen up.
It may reduce depression and anxiety
Depression and anxiety can make existing difficult for anyone, but there is something especially devastating about spending an entire beautiful day under a duvet because you can’t force yourself to leave your house.
Although we may be inclined to experience some deep worries and concerns from time to time–sometimes, for no reason at all. But you ultimately deserve to be happy and at peace. Fortunately, results from a study suggest that Ashwagandha is capable of reducing depression and anxiety levels. In fact, in comparison to an anxiety medication called lorazepam, this herb offers a higher level of relief.
It helps to treat Arthritis
Pain, in whatever form, undermines and counters any efforts you make towards being healthier. Yes we lead busy lives, yes stuff happens, but the pains from arthritis can significantly be uncomfortable.
However, ashwagandha, as a pain reliever can block pain signals from being sent from the nervous system. Also, armed with anti-inflammatory properties, it can reduce swelling caused by arthritis.
In fact, according to a study in the Indian Journal of Medical Research, ashwagandha is especially potent in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.
It helps to boost heart health
Most people already know that having veggies on their plates, and a heart-pounding exercise regime keeps the heart strong. But due to some under-the-radar behaviors, and to prevent wear-and-tear, the use ashwagandha is advisable as it may greatly boost heart health.
It is also quite effective in the treatment of high levels of cholesterol, high blood pressure and chest pain. Interestingly, a study published in the International Journal of Ayurveda Research discovered that using this ancient herb for heart health can improve muscle strength and endurance.
It acts as a potent treatment for Alzheimer’s
In what we consider very good news, a number of studies have proven that ashwagandha can help treat Alzheimer’s, the most common form of dementia. Apparently, it induces a reduction in memory loss and improves spatial memory.
Studies have drawn conclusions about how taking ashwagandh can keep your brain active, improve its health, generate new cells, and lower risk of mental decline.
It slows the growth of cancer cells
A majority of people have been a bit skeptical of many ‘promising’ cancer treatments. But if we’re going to talk about cancer cell growth, we most definitely need to talk about ashwagandha. Researchers have found that the herb might be able to stop cell growth in some type of cancers. For instance, it could slow lung, prostate, breast and kidney cancers.
What are the potential side effects of taking ashwagandha?
We know this may sound stereotypical—but ashwagandha appears to be a safe and well-tolerated supplement, especially when taken in small doses. However, for a woman who is pregnant or breast-feeding, it is potential unsafe to take ashwagandha.
People who suffer from autoimmune conditions like lupus, hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and type 1diabetes should also stay away from it, unless approved by a qualified doctor.
Evidence has also shown that if the right dosage is not adhered to, it may significantly lower blood sugar and blood pressure levels.
Bottom line
When you look at the link between the use of ashwagandha and the treatment of certain health conditions, it seems like a no-brainer to encourage the use of the herb. As far as whether ashwaganha is an effective treatment? The short answer is yes.
It may not be held to the same standard as other supplements. But that’s partly because there hasn’t been long term research done on humans that would give all the answers. Thankfully, ashwagandha is sold as a supplement in the United States and is still as potent in the treatment of several health conditions.
At the end of the day, checking with your doctor is still the best way to make the right health decision. Remember: Ashwagandha is no substitute for recommended treatments by your medical doctor.
What do you think of this herb? Are you considering it as a treatment option? Sound off in the comments below!
Reference
Everything You Need To Know About Ashwagandha–https://www.suppwiththat.com/ashwagandha/
