Often described as an adaptogen, a class of herbs and mushrooms that help the body adapt to physical, mental and biological stress – Ashwagandha also supports the body’s homeostatic regulation in several key areas. From boosting stamina and energy levels to providing neuroprotection (preservation of neuronal structure and/or function) Ashwagandha may very well be able to assist you on your own path to living a long and healthful life.
Nature provides a truly abundant supply of resources able to assist the body in its ability to attain complete health and wellbeing. Of the many different plants and herbs available Ashwagandha has been widely studied, proven to be safe, well tolerated and able to support health and wellbeing on a variety of levels. Known also by its scientific name – Withania Somnifera – Ashwagandha has developed plenty of influence among those who believe in its ability to reduce stress, anxiety, and promote a sense of calm in those who use it. The use of Ahswagandha has a long history – spanning centuries as described in Ayurvedic texts.
Benefit 1: Withanamides provide neuroprotective benefits
Ashwaghanda’s active ingredient, Withanamides, provide considerable benefit in preventing and treating neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s (Lalotra & Vaghela, 2019). Withanamides produce protective effects against B-amyloid-induced plaques that are a characteristic symptom of Alzheimer’s disease. Studies such as those by Lalotra & Vaghela explore the antioxidant qualities that are abundant in Ashwagandha, and their ability to scavenge free radicals, so as to prevent cell damage in the brain. Additionally, these same effects have been found to produce promising benefits in protecting the brain against Parkinson’s disease.
Benefit 2: Produce a positive effect on stress regulation
This herb is also known for its ability to provide anti-inflammatory effects that aid the body’s regulation of cortisol levels. Cortisol is a hormone that’s produced in events of stress, to facilitate a person’s fight or flight response. However, too much cortisol can create lasting negative effects to a person’s immune system. As the adrenal and thyroid glands are crucial in helping the body regulate the amount of cortisol produced during moments of stress, Ashwagandha’s ability to regulate both adrenal and thyroid functions have been studied (Li, 2020) and said to be invaluable in contributing to ongoing stress management within the body.
Benefit 3: Delivers an athletic boost with improved energy, stamina and endurance
Studies (Bonila et al., 2021) have also evidenced the considerable benefit that Ashwagandha provides for improving a person’s athletic performance. By supporting improved heart and lung capacity, Ashwagandha supplements have yielded positive results in relation to, endurance and boosting energy levels. Along with athletic performance Ashwagandh has also proven beneficial in aiding individuals who struggle with their baseline energy levels, due to fatigue.
Benefit 4: Has immune boosting and anti-inflammatory properties
Ashwagandha has also demonstrated excellent immune-boosting effects. Studies have shown its ability to improve anti-inflammatory and disease-fighting immune cells. Also called ‘Indian ginseng’, it is commonly used to treat arthritis and other chronic inflammatory conditions. As the herb is also rich in iron, Ashwagandha is also known to increase red blood cell count.
Benefit 5: Provides a stabilising effect on blood sugar
Another example of this adaptogen’s many health benefits is the way it is able to aid in the regulation of the body’s blood sugar levels. When these are off-kilter, an individual’s high or low blood sugar can adversely affect mental and physical wellbeing. Examples of such adverse effects include depression, and dementia.
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. All information found here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from your doctor or ongoing medical treatment you currently receive. Consult with your doctor. Speak to your doctor and or pharmacist about any drugs you are taking (prescription or OTC, natural products and or vitamins) and health problems. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any drug without checking with your doctor.
References
Bonila, D. A., Moreno, Y., Gho, C., Petro, J., Odriozola-Martinez, A., & Kreider, R. B. (2021). Effects of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) on Physical Performance: Systematic Review and Bayesian Meta-Analysis. Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinsiology, 6(1), 20. Li, I. (2020). Stress & Anxiety Improvements with Ashwagandha and B-Vitamins.
See document
S, L., & S, V. J. (2019). Scientific reports of medicinal plants used for the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
Pharmaceutical and Biosciences Journal, 152
