The benefits and properties of Ashwagandha
Write the 14/02/2023 by Santarome Bio
What is Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha is a plant of the nightshade family and belongs to the genus “Withania somnifera”. Better known as “white ginseng” or “Indian ginseng” due to its resemblance, it is an essential remedy in traditional Ayurveda medicine, particularly to combat stress and tone the body. It is nicknamed “the healing leaf” for its many therapeutic virtues.
It differs from ginseng by its impact on the nervous system, and is therefore suitable for people suffering from chronic stress.
Used for thousands of years, it continues to be used in many medicines and therapeutic products.
History and habitat
Originally from India, ashwagandha grows today mainly in arid lands, in India, Afghanistan, Pakistan, but also in Europe (Spain, Sicily, etc.) due to its high demand.
This plant was discovered more than 1,000 years before Christ and was referred to as a miracle cure in Ayurvedic medicine to treat ailments of the human body. Now, the use of ashwagandha persists throughout the world.
Appearance (composition and format)
The Withania Somnifera is a small, robust tree that can reach one meter in height. Green flowers grow on this plant to reveal orange-red berries. These are the roots of ashwagandha which have therapeutic virtues for serenity of the mind. These are dried and ground into powder, before being mixed with other elements to reduce its strong taste.
The composition of this vegetation is complete: rich in iron, antioxidants, tannins, glucose, potassium nitrate and fatty acids. It also contains phytonutrients such as sitoindosides.
Properties
Adaptogenic action : Withania Somnifera is an adaptogenic plant, that is to say, a plant which stimulates the body to resist stress and promotes emotional balance.
Regenerative and strengthening properties : ashwagandha has a revitalizing effect on the human body. In case of fatigue or significant stress, this plant is ideal to counter the “slump” effect. In addition, this plant strengthens the human body's immune defenses. Athletes greatly appreciate this plant because it is productive and strengthens muscle mass.
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Calming and anti-stress properties : Withania Somnifera also helps resist stress, particularly during crucial periods such as an exam or tax period, while optimizing physical and intellectual performance. Indeed, it targets and soothes cortisol which is the stress hormone. It also influences metabolism and is also used to help with exhaustion and depression. Indeed, it promotes calm and relaxation by regulating the physical and mental. In the event of a sleep disorder, it is often recommended.
Anti-inflammatory properties : in the case of certain inflammatory diseases, ashwagandha is highly recommended, such as for arthritis. This plant helps stimulate the body to fight against these inconveniences.
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Neuroprotective properties : several studies have demonstrated the qualities of dried ashwagandha roots. Withania Somnifera optimizes nerve development and protects cells. It can be taken preventively and fights against destructive diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. This plant has also been recommended to fight tuberculosis and hepatitis.
Benefits of ashwagandha
Ashwagandha has many miraculous virtues which have made this plant a popular vegetable for years. In fact, the plant allows you to:
- Reduce stress and anxiety.
- Act as an anti-inflammatory.
- Improve sports performance: it allows the body to best optimize oxygen in order to regulate breathing, and strengthens the muscular system. Thus, it improves sports performance in this way.
- Act on libido: ashwagandha is an aphrodisiac which stimulates libido and hormone production in men.
- Promote sleep: it acts as a sleeping pill for restful sleep thanks to its soothing components.
- Facilitate fertility in men: ashwagandha fights stress and strengthens libido. Therefore, these two actions facilitate procreation.
- Fortify and strengthen the scalp: stress is well known to result in hair loss or promote the appearance of split ends and white hair. Ashwagandha helps hair growth and slows down hair loss and the appearance of hair problems.
- Fight against many infections.
- Fight against diabetes.
- Reduce pain: it is an excellent antiseptic.
Finally, Withania Somnifera can help with menopausal symptoms and reduce hot flashes.
How to consume it + dosage
The ashwagandha plant can be consumed in different ways. It is found in the form of powder, capsules or infusion. Ashwagandha is preferably consumed in the evening even if there are no contraindications for taking it during the day.
You can also consume ashwagandha in the form of a dietary supplement . Stress Control Bio capsules from Santarome Bio are rich in ashwagandha. Blended with saffron and hawthorn to combat anxiety and promote sleep, these capsules are a must-try remedy for peace of mind. It is recommended to take 2 capsules per day accompanied by a 20cl glass of water.
Precautions for use and side effects
The use of ashwagandha is strongly discouraged for:
- Pregnant women
- Breastfeeding women
- Young children
- People on antidepressant treatment
- People with hyperthyroidism
- People suffering from nightshade allergies (tomato, eggplant, chili, bell pepper)
Ashwagandha has no side effects. However, in the event of an overdose, intestinal disorders may occur, as well as states of drowsiness. It is therefore imperative to follow the indicated dosage.
