This herb called Ashwagandha has sparked an explosion of interest in recent times. Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic herb commonly called Indian ginseng and used in preparing traditional Indian medicine. Several studies have shown that the herb has powerful effects on the body and many exciting benefits for human health, particularly in the areas of physical, emotional and mental health.
Ashwagandha significantly supports women health. And so, we would be discussing the benefits women may experience with this herb.
1. Supports Sexual Potency
Did you know that the Kama Sutra, one of the oldest literatures on human sexuality, makes mention of ashwagandha as being a potent sexual stimulant? Studies also indicate that the herb supports sexual health by inducing blood flow and lowering bodily stress to the body.
If you are a woman, ashwagandha can help you experience increased sexual desire and satisfaction.
2. Regulates Blood Sugar, Naturally
There are proofs that ashwaganda is helpful in effectively regulating blood sugar levels in both diabetic and healthy people. As a matter of fact, a study of some people with type 2 diabetes showed that their blood sugar level came down after taking ashwagandha supplements for a month.
This supplement was noted as being as potent as conventional oral medications for diabetes. However, diabetic individuals should consult their doctors on whether ashwagandha can be safely included in their treatment plan.
3. Provides Menopausal Support
Ashwagandha encourages hormone balance by acting on the endocrine system. In fact, menopausal women who supplement with ashwagandha can experience significant reduction in peculiar symptoms such as mood swings, anxiety and hot flashes.
4. Enhances Quality of Lactation Milk
This potent herb is beneficial for breastfeeding mothers as it is believed to help enhance lactation. It is also helpful in increasing the amount and quality of milk produced. Of course, this in turn will improve the overall health of the baby.
5. Slows Down Aging
Well, in case you didn’t know stress, especially emotional and metabolic, can significantly affect aging. In fact, the body’s stress hormone known as cortisol contributes to skin wrinkles, impairment in cognitive function, and muscle loss.
Some studies have found out that ashwagandha helps the body resist stress and may also significantly reduce cortisol production.
6. Gives Memory Support
Recent studies suggest that in animal models, ashwagandha alleviates memory loss. What the herb does is to protect the brain from neurodegeneration as a result of oxidative stress. The herb improves long-term memory due to its stress-combating effects.
7. Supports Muscular Health
Aswagandha supplements are quite popular for supporting bodybuilding due to its ability to improve muscular strength, especially in the lower limbs.
Additionally, ashwaganha supplements have been found to be effective in neuro-muscular coordination. The herb is also capable of boosting your desire to accomplish your fitness goals.
8. Boosts Energy Levels
One major benefit many women have had after taking ashwagandha is in regards to their energy levels. These reports support a recent study that indicated that the herb’s benefits include improving energy while managing stress-related disorders.
9. Improves Mood
The herb is well-known for its mood-boosting properties, and studies suggest that the t ashwagandha is therapeutic and so may potentially role be effective in combating mood imbalance. With ashwagandha supplements, women experiencing mood swings may find some relieve.
10. Naturally Aids a Restful Night’s Sleep
Ashwagandha is ‘sleep-inducing’ and as such can be counted on for a restful night’s sleep. Not only does the herb have energy–boosting effects, a dose before bedtime will help provide you with the needed rest and relaxation. .
Women who struggle with insomnia can find ashwagandha a welcome benefit too.
11. Encourages Fertility
The female reproductive health is often threatened by hormone imbalance, stress, eating disorders, and illness—making it harder for some women to conceive. Thankfully, according to studies, ashwagandha improves thyroid function, an organ that regulates hormones.
Also, ashwagandha decreases stress, resulting in a situation that is conducive for fertility. However, more research is needed to determine whether or not the herb is effective in helping infertile females trying to conceive.
12. Increases your Intake of Antioxidants
Antioxidants are essential for preventing diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, arthritis and cancer. Luckily, the ashwagandha plant is rich in anti – oxidants, making the consumption of its supplements a perfect health-benefiting choice.
Interestingly, ashwagandha is currently being studied for its anti– tumor components too.
Ashwagandha Supplements
Sometimes, in addition to other herbs that are effective in promoting female health, ashwagandha comes in liquid and capsule forms. Be sure to look for organic supplements that that are produced by reliable, high-quality sources.
Ashwagandha supplements are evidently helpful in supporting energy levels, improving mood, regulating hormone balance to support normal energy levels, and providing vitality.
Side Effects of Ashwagandha
Similar to conventional medicines drugs, herbs such as ashwagandha possess components that may cause certain effects on the body, making them unsuitable for people who are under certain medications or suffer some medical conditions. There isn’t enough information on the possible side effects of a prolonged use of ashwagandha, but reports from users indicate that it is safe and non-toxic.
We, however, advice that you consult with a health care professional before including ashwagandha in your health plan.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Ashwagandha is known to have aborofacient properties that can induce abortion in pregnant women. So, pregnant or nursing mothers should avoid this herb. Fortunately, this appears to be the only women-specific side effect of the herb.
Drug Interactions
Ashwagandha is made up of chemicals that may induce tranquilizer-like and sedative effects. According to Drugs.com the herb might also interact with a common treatment congestive heart failure known as digoxin.
The Bottom Line
Recent studies have shown that ashwagandha has the ability to reduce inflammation, calm the brain, boost the immune system, and lower blood pressure. Additionally, the herb is especially useful for treating medical conditions that affect women. These medical conditions include hormonal imbalances, diabetes, high blood pressure, depression, and anxiety.
Although there is no conclusive evidence to suggest that ashwagandha may have negative side effects, it is always advisable to consult with a qualified physician before incorporating ashwagandha in your diet or ditching your prescribed medications.
For those searching for viable, natural alternative to some prescribed medications, ashwagandha supplements may be worth considering.