Ashwagandha, also known as Indian ginseng or winter cherry, an essential herb that is considered to be nature’s gift to mankind. It has been one of the most powerful healing herbs due to its abundance of antioxidants, iron, and amino acids. Continue reading to know how it can benefit our bodies.
Helps Lower Stress And Anxiety
Stress and anxiety are closely linked and many people are facing them every day.
Ashwagandha is a great herb against chronic stress. A study revealed that the herb works on the nervous system by regulating the signals sent between chemicals in a person’s nervous system. This, in turn, may help to reduce the severity of anxiety.
Also in one study, people who took a daily supplement that contained ashwagandha extracts had experienced a reduction in anxiety symptoms and insomnia symptoms.
Traditionally, it is used as a powder mixed with honey and warm milk for calming effects and regulating sleep and wake cycles. We can also have a cup of hot milk mixed with 1 teaspoon of powdered Ashwagandha before bedtime.
Has Anti-Cancer Properties
Ashwagandha may have the potential when used as an anti-cancer treatment. According to a study, it contains withaferin, an active chemical that may help destroy cancer cells in patients by causing a process called apoptosis to occur in the body. Apoptosis is a form of programmed cell death. This herb has been found to be useful in different types of cancers, including breast, colon, ovarian, brain, and lung cancer.
May Lower Blood Sugar Levels
Ashwagandha may help control our blood sugar levels. It works by increasing the amount of insulin released by the pancreas. A study even showed that the herb may directly reduce blood glucose levels and that its effects are similar to what patients experience when they take an oral drug for diabetes.
May Lower Cholesterol And Triglycerides
Ashwagandha has an anti-inflammatory effect and may help improve heart health by reducing cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
In a study of chronically stressed adults, researchers have found that participants who took the highest dosage of standardized ashwagandha extract experienced a 17% decrease in LDL cholesterol and an 11% decrease in triglycerides, on average.
May Help Treat Arthritis
Ashwagandha’s root has anti-inflammatory properties which may help fight various inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Simply mash the root into a paste and apply it to joints to ease inflammation.
