What are the benefits of Ashwagandha? Ashwagandha is one of the most important herbs in Ayurveda, which is a traditional form of alternative medicine based on Indian principles of natural healing.
“Ashwagandha” is Sanskrit for “smell of the horse,” which refers to the herb’s scent and its potential ability to increase strength.
The ashwagandha plant is a small shrub with yellow flowers that’s native to India and Southeast Asia. People use extracts or powder from the plant’s root or leaves to treat a variety of conditions.
People have used ashwagandha for thousands of years to relieve stress, increase energy levels, and improve concentration as well as anxiety and fertility issues.
A popular Ayurvedic herb with a long traditional history of use.
KSM-66 is a special extract of Ashwagandha root that took 14 years of R&D to perfect. It is the ashwagandha root extract with the most comprehensive research.
Ashwagandha may help to support normal:
– Mental Health and Circadian rhythm
– Energy Levels
– Muscle function
– Respiratory system
– Reproduction and Sexual systems
– Skin health.
– Protection from free radical damage
Some evidence suggests that ashwagandha may help reduce symptoms of other mental health conditions, including depression, in certain populations.
They found that participants who took 1,000 mg of ashwagandha extract daily for 12 weeks had greater reductions in depression and anxiety than those who took a placebo.
Side Effects of ashwagandha
Ashwagandha should not be taken it you are:
- Pregnant
- Breastfeeding
- Hormone-sensitive
- Taking certain medications, such as benzodiazepines, anticonvulsants, or barbiturates
- About to have surgery
- Has an autoimmune or thyroid disorder
- Has liver problems
Some people using ashwagandha supplements have reported the following adverse effects
- Upper gastrointestinal discomfort
- Drowsiness
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
Ashwagandha’s effects may not be immediate, and you may have to take it for several months before noticing its effects.
Dosage of ashwagandha
Dosing recommendations for ashwagandha vary. For example, research has shown doses ranging from 250–1,250 mg per day to to be effective for different conditions. Consult a healthcare professional if you have questions regarding ashwagandha dosing.
You can take ashwagandha in many ways, in either a single dose or multiple doses per day. And you can take it either with meals or on an empty stomach.
Always speak with a doctor to ensure ashwagandha or other supplements are safe for you to use.
