Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an adaptogenic herb, which means that it helps to balance your body and neutralize the negative effects of stressors. It’s also called Indian ginseng for its resemblance to that root; but ashwagandha has a lot more going for it than just an interesting nickname. A quick look at the impressive list of benefits speaks volumes about why you should get acquainted with this herb. Ashwagandha reduces stress, fight inflammation, improves cognition, balances hormones, boosts libido, strengthens the immune system and much more. This article will brief you on everything you need to know regarding this amazing superfood. But first...

What Exactly Is Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha is a plant native to India, other parts of Asia, and Africa. It is sometimes known as Indian Ginseng because of its resemblance to that root. However, there are two major differences between ginseng and ashwagandha. First, ginseng is a type of root, while ashwagandha is a type of shrub that is related to the nightshade family. Second, ginseng is more commonly used as a medicinal herb. Ashwagandha may be used as a medicinal herb, but it also acts as an adaptogen, which means that it helps the body to cope with stress without any harmful side effects.

How to Use Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha can be consumed in several different ways. You can make a tea or a coffee-like drink with the powdered root, or you can add it to your smoothie or yogurt. You can also just add a few leaves to your salad. You can also take it in capsule form, or you can use it as a tincture. You can even eat it “as is,” if you prefer. You’ll get the most benefits from eating the dried root, rather than the fresh leaves. You can also cook with the leaves, if you like.

How Does Ashwagandha Work?

Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb, which means that it helps to balance your body and neutralize the negative effects of stressors. It also helps to regulate your hormone levels, particularly cortisol and estrogen. Cortisol helps us respond to stress, but too much circulating in our body is not good. It can cause us to gain weight, lower our immune system and increase our risk of diseases like diabetes. Estrogen is essential to our health, but too much circulating in the bloodstream can cause us to retain water and can be a precursor to breast cancer. Ashwagandha helps to naturally regulate these hormones.

6 Incredible Benefits of Ashwagandha

Reduce Stress

Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that helps to manage stress. If you're feeling anxious or stressed, try adding this herb to your diet. It also helps to regulate your cortisol levels, which can be helpful if you're feeling particularly anxious.

Fight Inflammation

Chronic inflammation is a serious problem that can lead to heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues. Ashwagandha has been shown to help reduce inflammation in the body.

Improve Cognition

Many people take ashwagandha for the added boost it can provide to the brain. It's been shown to improve memory, focus, and mood. It's not a replacement for a healthy diet, but it can help to boost your brainpower when used as a supplement.

Balance Hormones

Ashwagandha can help to balance your estrogen levels, which can be helpful if you're going through menopause or if you've been diagnosed with too many estrogen receptors. This herb can also help to balance testosterone levels, which can be helpful if you're experiencing symptoms of low testosterone.

Boost Libido

Ashwagandha's ability to balance your hormones can also help to boost your libido. Many people report having increased sex drive when they add this herb to their diet.

Strengthen the Immune System

The ability of ashwagandha to fight inflammation is also helpful for strengthening your immune system.

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3 Ways to Incorporate Ashwagandha Into Your Diet

Add it to your smoothie or yogurt.

You can add a spoonful of ashwagandha root to your smoothie or yogurt for a quick boost of energy. You can also throw a few leaves into your salad, if you'd prefer to eat it that way.

Add it to your coffee.

You can also add ashwagandha root to your coffee, if you'd like. This is a great way to take advantage of all the benefits of the root.

Side Effects of Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is a safe herb for most people, with minor side effects including stomach discomfort, diarrhoea, and cramping. It's best to avoid taking ashwagandha if you're pregnant because it can cause uterine contractions, which can lead to a miscarriage. It's also not recommended if you're breastfeeding. You should also avoid taking ashwagandha if you're on certain medications like blood thinners, diabetes medications, or if you have anxiety or depression. It's also advised that you don't take ashwagandha if you've been diagnosed with thyroid issues because it can make those conditions worse. You should always talk to your doctor before you take any supplements or decide to add a new herb to your diet.