Withania Somnifera- Health Benefits, Uses and Important Facts

Withania somnifera, also referred to as Ashwagandha and winter cherry, is a significant medicinal herb that has been utilised for more than 3,000 years in Ayurvedic and traditional medicine. Ashwagandha is referred to as Indian ginseng by some herbalists. Numerous bioactive substances included in the plant extract have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. Numerous ailments, including arthritis, impotence, forgetfulness, anxiety, cancer, neurodegenerative and cardiovascular disorders, among others, are prevented and treated with the use of plant extracts and their bioactive constituents.

Its root has a fragrance of horses, and it is said to give users a horse's virility and power. Ashva means "horse" and gandha means "smell" in Sanskrit. Although the plant has several uses, an extract of its roots is the most often used supplement.

About Withania Somnifera:

Withania Somnifera is an adaptogen because it helps the body cope with stress. Additionally, it has a high concentration of withanolides, which inhibit the development of tumours and inflammation. The body and the brain both benefit from ashwagandha. It is known to reduce stress, blood sugar, and blood pressure and can aid in treating anxiety and depression. Additionally, it enhances focus and cognitive function.

It is commonly known that Withania Somnifera can assist diabetics and healthy individuals manage their blood sugar levels. According to studies, it enhances the stability and release of insulin in muscle cells.

High concentrations of withaferin, a substance that triggers apoptosis, are seen in ashwagandha. In cancer cells, apoptosis is the "planned death." By interfering with their capacity to operate, it also prevents the formation of new cancer cells.

Studies demonstrate how Withania Somnifera may be helpful in treating a variety of malignancies, including lung, breast, brain, and colon.

How to take Withania Somnifera?

• Typically, the roots and leaves of the Ashwagandha plant are dried, ground, and then used as extracts to cure illnesses. The powder is combined with water, ghee (clarified butter), or honey to make a churna, which is a blend of powdered herbs.
• It tastes bitter because plant roots are used to make it. Therefore, blending it into a smoothie and then consuming it would be a wonderful idea. To give it more taste, combine it with spices like cinnamon in a glass of almond milk.
• There are also pills with root extract.

Health benefits of Withania Somnifera

Are you also curious about what are the advantages of ashwagandha? Here is list of some recognised advantages of Ashwagandha for health:

Stress buster: By managing the cortisol (the ‘stress hormone’) levels in the body, ashwagandha helps reduce stress, according to this 2012 research study, published in the Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine.

Boosts immunity: Ashwagandha aids in raising the amount of White Blood Cells (WBCs), the body’s inbuilt defence system, according to studies by a team of Portland (USA) medical experts. These can help the body fight infections by generating antibodies and eliminating foreign substances.

Boosts energy: This herb can assist improve energy levels, raising both your stamina and endurance powers, giving you the vitality of a horse!

Helps lower sugar levels: Ashwagandha is a must-have for diabetics as it helps reduce fat and blood sugar levels by boosting the production of insulin in the body.

Helps treat Vata imbalances: Since this plant soothes the nervous system, and eases anxiety and reduces stress, (all signs of Vata imbalance), it is an excellent supplement to add to your diet to balance people with Vata temperament.

Controls hormone imbalances: This herb can assist raise thyroid hormone levels. It can help manage hormone imbalance in the endocrine system, which contributes to mood swings during menopause.

Promotes healthy weight loss: Ashwagandha helps complement your exercise and nutrition plan. Both things tend to cause tension and anxiety which this herb can reduce by lowering the cortisol levels in the body. It also regulates your emotions, reducing excessive eating. Also, by supporting healthy sleep, it spares you from night time munching.

Lowers blood pressure: This makes ashwagandha good for patients with hypertension, helping to reduce cardiac illnesses and disorders.

Reduces joint pain: Ashwagandha leaves are typically applied to areas of the body where there is inflammation to help manage it. It is taken into consideration for the treatment of arthritis since it also reduces joint discomfort. According to a pilot research conducted in 2015, ashwagandha may be effective in treating rheumatoid arthritis.

Aids in preventing insomnia: This herb is a boon to those who struggle with the condition since it calms the nervous system. Sleeplessness can be treated by drinking a warm milk beverage with ashwagandha powder in the evening.

Anti-aging: Ashwagandha acts as an anti-aging agent by increasing the body's antioxidant levels and encouraging the release of healthy oils that keep the skin bright and beautiful. The extreme exposure to numerous external factors, such as the sun's UV radiation, can harm skin. Ashwagandha keeps the skin supple and firm while preventing it from drying out. It is regarded as an anti-aging agent because of this.

Enhances focus and memory: According to a 2011 research study published in the African Journal of Traditional, Complementary, and Alternative Medicines, Ashwagandha can cure Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and other neurodegenerative conditions by enhancing memory.

Improves libido: This herb serves as a stimulant, reviving your natural urge. Reduced stress levels also play a role in this. Additionally, it aids in raising testosterone levels in males, improving productivity. By controlling the thyroid and adrenal glands, ashwagandha helps women maintain a healthy balance of their reproductive hormones.