POWERFUL BENEFITS OF ASHWAGANDHA

Ashwagandha is an ancient adaptogenic herb whose countless benefits have been reckoned since the practice of Ayurveda began.

With the evolution of modern technology and lifestyle, we came to discover more and more useful benefits of this wonder herb that not only preserves our health and beauty but also helps us cope with the changes in our surroundings without losing the natural touch.

Listed below are its multiple benefits classified broadly for an easy study.

BENEFITS ON HEALTH:

1.Helps manage stress & anxiety-

When we say that Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb, we mean that it helps us cope with the everyday stress.

It helps in lowering the levels of the stress hormone, cortisol, thereby fighting the symptoms of anxiety and depression.

2.Helps reduce blood sugar levels–

High levels of cortisol may lead to escalation in the blood sugar levels and increased fat storage in the abdomen.

Studies have shown that Ashwagandha helps lower blood sugar levels by increasing the insulin secretion and improving insulin sensitivity in muscle cells.

3.May reduce cholesterol & triglyceride levels-

Ashwagandha has been known to improve heart health by lowering the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the body.

It also lowers high blood pressure and eases chest pain, helping in the prevention of heart diseases.

4.Boosts testosterone-

Studies have shown that taking Ashwagandha supplements may have powerful effects on testosterone levels and the reproductive health of men.

Infertile men when treated with Ashwagandha showed increased sperm count and motility. It also showed increased antioxidant levels in their blood which eventually improved fertility.

5.Increase in muscle mass & strength-

In certain studies, it was found that healthy men who took a certain dosage of pulverized Ashwagandha root per day gained muscle strength and size.

It also improved their body composition and significantly lowered their body fat percentage.

6.Anti-inflammatory-

Ashwagandha increases the activity of natural killer cells or human immune cells that fight infection, and thus, boosts immunity, thereby lowering inflammation in the target areas.

7.May improve brain function-

Clinical research has shown that Ashwagandha has the capability to diminish the memory and brain function problems caused by any injury or disease.

Its anti-oxidant activity protects nerve cells from the attack of harmful free radicals and lowers oxidative stress.

Since ancient times, it has also been used to boost memory.

8.Pain-reliever-

Ashwagandha may act as a pain reliever by preventing pain signals from travelling along the central nervous system.

This is why it is effective in treating some forms of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis and joint pains.

ASHWAGANDHA BENEFITS ON SKIN:

Also know as the Indian ginseng or winter cherry, this strength ehancing herb helps in the production of natural skin oils.

It is primarily made up of compounds, withanolides, saponins, and alkaloids that help in cleansing dirt and impurities from the pores, preventing their clogging.

Clean pores aid in keeping the skin acne-free as there is no build-up of excess oil o the skin surface.

This is also known to help in the production of skin-enriching compounds like hyaluronan that aids in keeping the skin hydrated, elastin that keeps the skin elastic & supple, and collagen that strengthens the skin structure.

Ashwagandha also possesses strong astringent properties and acts as a wonderful toner when mixed with honey or milk.

It has moisturizing properties that keep the skin soft and smooth, preventing it from becoming dry and rough. The anti-oxidant properties of the herb prevent signs of aging like wrinkles and fine lines.

Its regular topical application helps reduce dark spots and blemishes.

This calming effect on the nervous system also helps bring back the radiance of the skin making it beautiful and glowing.

A fluid mix of this healing herb can be applied as a cream to treat cuts, bruises and skin infection.

ASHWAGANDHA BENEFITS ON HAIR:

Not only for your skin, but Ashwagandha is also the best friend for your hair too. It is one of the major ingredients used in Ayurvedic shampoos.

This stimulates the scalp by improving blood circulation when rubbed on it.

It also combats dandruff and controls its formation.

Ashwagandha is known to boost melanin production by acting on the enzyme, tyrosinase that is responsible for melanin formation and gives natural color to our hair.

Thus, it slows down the greying of hair and brings their natural shine back.