Ashwagandha is also known as Indian Ginseng, Poison Gooseberry, or Winter Cherry. It is a medicinal herb from the family of Solanaceae or nightshades. It is loaded with biologically active substances as it is composed of both macro and micro-elements, peptides, amino acids, lipids, and the bases of nucleic acids. Extracts or powder from this small shrub’s root or leaves are used to treat a variety of conditions.
When it comes to bringing diabetes under control, Ashwagandha is extremely beneficial. It works by influencing the production of insulin and insulin sensitivity. The use of it will help in stimulating the secretion of insulin in the bloodstream thereby improving the breakdown of sugar in the blood. Due to its action, less harmful sugars are being stored on the body.
Aside from this, the herb also boosts our overall metabolism by enabling better removal of waste and improving all-round health. It has been found beneficial in strengthening the immune system, endocrine system, and maintaining the glucose level.
Ashwagandha has adaptogenic qualities. This means that it can modulate the body’s response to changing conditions and stress levels. It works by making it difficult for stress hormones to reach the nervous system, thus helping manage insomnia, anxiety, depression, and discomfort caused by diabetes.
With regular consumption, Ashwagandha extract may help in maintaining low blood sugar levels.
Studies have suggested that Ashwagandha can help reduce blood sugar levels in both healthy people and those with diabetes.
In a 4-week study involving people with schizophrenia, those treated with ashwagandha had an average reduction in fasting blood sugar levels of 13.5 mg/dL, compared with 4.5 mg/dL in those who received a placebo.
Moreover, a study published in The Indian Journal of Pharmacology journal stated, “A clinical trial in patients of non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus with hypercholesterolemia reported a decrease in blood glucose with Ashwagandha being comparable to that of an oral hypoglycemic.”
One test-tube study revealed that it increased insulin secretion and improved insulin sensitivity in muscle cells.
How To Make Ashwagandha Concoction
Add 1 – 2 tsp (3 – 6 gm) of Ashwagandha powder in 3 cups of water. Boil it for 15 minutes and strain the mixture. Let it cool down and consume 1/4th cup twice daily.
