Herb of the Week: Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
December 26, 2020
ASHWAGANDHA (Withania somnifera) AT A GLANCE
- Other names: Asgandh, Indian ginseng, Winter Cherry
- Part Used: Root
- Taste: Bitter, sweet
- Energy: Warm, dry
- Traditional and medicinal uses: Kidney yang tonic, Adaptogen, Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant, Antispasmodic, Aphrodisiac, Astringent, Diuretic, Immunomodulatory/Immune amphoteric, Nutritive, Sedative (mild)
- Flower Essence: supports overall strength & well-being
A REVERED ADAPTOGEN
Native to North Africa and India, this yellow shrub has been used for its medicinal properties for more than 3000 years for a variety of health issues. Its medicinal properties can be attributed, in part, to withanolides, a compound capable of inhibiting tumor growth and reducing inflammation. Research has proven that the herb helps reduce markers of inflammation, like C-reactive protein. Its alkoloids inhibit 5-LOX, COX-2, prostaglandins and leukotrienes. However, unlike NSAIDS, it doesn't cause GI irritation. It's postulated that this is due to the finding that lipoxin production is not inhibited. Ashwagandha has anti-carcinogenic properties and is considered an immunomodulator and immune amphoteric. It helps induce apoptosis, a process which kills cancer cells in the body. The medicinal properties of Ashwagandha may also help speed up the recovery in case of brain, colon, breast, lung, and ovarian cancer. As an antioxidant, it protects against Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) which cause oxidative stress and cell damage.
There are many other benefits of this herb such as improved brain function and memory, reduced cholesterol levels. In addition, it has also been shown to:
• Control blood sugar levels.
• Increase natural insulin production of the body and improves insulin sensitivity. This helps reduce blood sugar levels in diabetic and healthy individuals.
• Reduce cortisol levels by up to 30% which helps in combating mental health issues like depression and anxiety. In a recent study conducted on mice, the stress pathways in rodents were blocked after ingestion of Ashwagandha.
• Improve sperm count and motility in patients thereby enhancing testosterone levels too. It increases fertility and improves reproductive health.
• Encourage muscle mass production and strength. A study showed that healthy men who used Ashwagandha daily gained strength in muscles after 30 days. It also helped reduce fat composition of the body.
CONTRAINDICATIONS AND CONSIDERATIONS
Ashwagandha is not recommended for those with hyperthyroidism, excess iron, or a nightshade sensitivity. Use cautiously, and under the supervision of a doctor, with barbituates, and medications like Synthroid and Levoxyl.
*This list may not include all contraindications. This article for is educational purposes only. Please consult your doctor or healthcare provider before using this, or any, Herbal Ally. These statements have not been approved by the FDA. These statements are not intended to prevent, treat, diagnose or cure any disease.
WHAT'S NEXT?
Learn More about Ashwagandha! Find suggested dosages, wildcrafting suggestions and more here: https://embarkherbals.thinkific.com/pages/coming_soon
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References:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/12-proven-ashwagandha-benefits#section3
