Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha - Indian Ginseng
Ashwagandha has gained popularity within the last few years due to its beneficial effects on the nervous and endocrine system. It is a potent adaptogen which means it enhances the body's resilience to stress. Its unique ability to bring the body, mind and spirit into harmony makes Ashwagandha the king plant of the herbal kingdom.
Here are some of the amazing benefits and uses of ashwagandha herb.
1. It strengthens the adrenal glands, keeps them from over or under reacting and helps minimising the adrenal surges that can feed pathogens such as EBV and shingles
2. It protects the liver from excess adrenaline exposure and helps it produce and store dozens of hormones.
3. By increasing acetylcholine levels in the brain, which are correlated with improved memory, brain function and intelligence, it enhances the function of the brain and improves memory.
4. It decreases oxidative brain stress and helps prevent nerve cell degeneration.
5. It enhances GABA receptors and regulates serotonin in the brain
6. It boosts stamina and restores balance in the body.
7. It has natural calming and sedative properties and produces anxiety-relieving effects that are as powerful as commonly used anti-depressants, without any side effects. Studies have shown that intake of a high-potency extract of Ashwagandha for five days, is as effective as lorazepam and imipramine (antidepressant drug).
8. It reduces anxiety by reducing the stress levels by up to 80 per cent and cortisol levels by almost 26 per cent on an average.
9. It Improves the function of the reproductive system promoting a healthy sexual and reproductive balance.
10. It helps with insomnia. Extracts of the plant have shown a remarkable ability to induce deep, restful sleep without the drowsiness associated with many herbs and pharmaceutical medications.
In Ayurvedic medicine, ashwagandha is considered a Rasayana; this means that it helps maintain youth, both mentally and physically.
You can easily include this wonder herb in your diet by adding it in powder form to your morning cereal, consume it in various beverages or as a supplement.