Boost Brain and Body Function with Ashwagandha

Known as an adaptogen or something that can help the body manage stress, Ashwagandha is an ancient medicinal herb that offers several health benefits both for the brain and the body.

Ashwagandha has been around and used for 3,000 years and is considered as one of the most significant herbs in Ayurveda (A form of alternative medicine based on Indian principles of natural healing).

This wonder herb, whose botanical name is Withania somnifera, is also known by its other names like winter cherry and Indian ginseng, among others.

The herb has become a popular supplement over the years and below are some of the reasons why you should consider taking it daily.

Reduce Cortisol Levels

Also known as a stress hormone, cortisol is released by the adrenal glands in response to stress.  It also gets released when the blood sugar levels get too low, making it something that needs to be controlled.

Studies have shown that ashwagandha may just be the solution we need because it can help reduce cortisol levels in chronically stressed people.

Lower Blood Sugar Levels

Other studies made have also shown that ashwagandha can help lower blood sugar levels.  

One of these studies showed that this amazing herb was able to increase insulin secretion while also increasing insulin sensitivity in muscle cells.

Another study suggested that ashwagandha is capable of reducing sugar levels not just in healthy people but also with diabetics.

Boost Testosterone Levels & Male Fertility

Another impressive health benefit ashwagandha comes with is with regard to reproductive health.

One study performed on several infertile men showed an increase in sperm count and motility after taking ashwagandha.

Another study also showed an increase in sperm quality among test subjects who took ashwagandha for three months, proof of which is 14% of the test subjects’ partners became pregnant.

Reduce Depression Symptoms

Though further studies are still required to prove this claim, a few studies suggest that ashwagandha may be able to help reduce symptoms of depression.

One such study showed that among the 64 adults who participated in the 2-month study where the test subjects took 600 mg of high-concentration ashwagandha extract per day, a 79% reduction in depression was seen.

The results of the study were inconclusive though since only one of the participants had a history of depression.  

Reduce Inflammation 

Ashwagandha may also be able to help reduce inflammation per the results of several studies that have been made.

One such study showed that it can help reduce C-reactive protein (CRP), an inflammation marker closely linked to an increased risk of heart disease.

The same study showed that a 36% decrease in CRP was seen in test subjects who took 250 mg of ashwagandha extract daily.

Another study showed that ashwagandha can increase natural killer cell activity which can help fight infection and thus, keep you at the peak of health.

Final Thoughts

It’s no surprise that Ashwagandha has withstood the test of time.  With the numerous health benefits it brings to the table, adding it to your daily diet in the form of supplements is an effective way of keeping your mind and body healthy.