Description
Ashwagandha is a powerful rejuvenating herb used for managing weight, stress, anxiety, sleep, carb craving and boosting memory function. Ayurveda has been used for longevity and vitality for nearly three thousand years.
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is commonly known as “Indian Winter cherry” or “Indian Ginseng”. The name comes from two Sanskrit words Ashwa–horse and gandha smell. Unprocessed ashwagandha root smells like a horse.
Modern research considers Ashwagandha to be in the class of adaptogens. These are agents that help the body manage stress and the process of ageing. Ayuspa recommends Ashwagandha as a key component of the Age Gracefully package.
Anxiety and stress management: are the primary indications for taking Ashwagandha. It is non-addictive and non-sedating. It is highly effective if taken for at least 8 weeks. The longer you take the more it works. Apart from some mild side effects such as headache, sleepiness, and stomach upset, Ashwagandha is well tolerated.
Sleep disturbance: Taken regularly Ashwagandha helps restore normal sleep architecture without causing daytime sleepiness. The sleep induction effects of Ashwagandha come from its key ingredient tri ethylene glycol.
Support memory function: Ashwagandha supports memory functions. Becoming forgetful with age is just a normal process. Taking Ashwagandha regularly before memory starts to decline can slow down the inevitable.
Blood Sugar Levels: Ashwagandha normalises blood sugar levels. If taken with anti-diabetic medications it helps achieve better blood sugar control. If combing with medication always consult your doctor.
Weight Management: Ashwagandha is useful in managing overeating, and carb cravings. There are reports of its usefulness in the pre-diabetic population.
Enhance Muscle Growth and Strength: You should do your research and use Ashwagandha cautiously if you are into bodybuilding.
Caution:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women,
- People with autoimmune diseases ( e.g. lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes and Hashimoto’s disease), should avoid taking Ashwagandha.
- Certain medications interact with Ashwagandha e.g. thyroid, blood sugar and blood pressure medications.