Herbal medicines are among the most ancient medicines on the earth. Thousands of years ago there were no antibiotics to cure our ailments and advanced modes of treatment were also not available. In those times, people relied on a variety of herbs to treat all conditions. Herbal medicines are again gaining popularity as they are natural and have no side effects. This article is about the ashwagandha plant and its health benefits.
Healing properties of Ashwagandha:
Ashwagandha is one of the oldest medicinal herbs. Other than being a great adaptogen (owing to its stress-management properties), it also improves brain function, cures depression, and lowers cortisol levels? It is a small shrub having beautiful, yellow flowers and is found mostly in North Africa and India.
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Helps people with blood sugar
Several studies have revealed that ashwagandha lowers the level of blood sugar. It increases the secretion of insulin in our body and betters insulin sensitivity in our muscle cells. So, both healthy persons and the ones suffering from diabetes can be benefitted.
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Decreases cortisol levels
Cortisol is the stress hormone released by the adrenal glands as a response to any kind of stress. Cortisol secretion also takes place when the level of blood sugar gets extremely low. Unfortunately, in critical conditions, the cortisol levels become elevated to such an extent that it becomes a chronic problem. Ashwagandha’s medicinal properties lessen cortisol levels.
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Increases male fertility
Supplements prepared with ashwagandha are often prescribed to men with low levels of testosterone secretion. Infertile men have reported better sperm count as well as better quality of sperm after consumption of Ashwagandha supplements.
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Has anti-cancer properties
Test-tube and animal studies have proved that a compound named withaferin is present in ashwagandha. This compound induces apoptosis, the demise of cancer cells. It also prohibits the growth of fresh cancer cells. Doctors have treated ovarian tumors with withaferin and got excellent results.
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Lessens anxiety and stress
Ashwagandha is best known for reducing stress. So, if you are dealing with anxiety disorders, you can get relief from them with the regular intake of this herb.
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Cures depression
Among the benefits of Ashwagandha, curing depression also deserves mention. Ashwagandha extract will not just treat depression but also make you feel positive and happy throughout the day.
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Betters body composition
It has also been found that Ashwagandha gives strength and mass to muscles. Consuming ashwagandha root for 30 days can help you gain significant muscle strength.
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Lowers cholesterol
If you are wondering how to lower cholesterol in a natural way, Ashwagandha comes to your rescue. It is a safe supplement and this is why many people rely on it for one reason or another.
Conclusion:
We may conclude by saying that Ashwagandha is a magical herb that offers solutions to various physical and mental troubles. However, people suffering from autoimmune disease, breastfeeding women, and pregnant women should avoid taking it. You can easily grow ashwagandha in your backyard or in the balcony and use its leaves for treating a wide range of conditions.
