Ashwagandha – Fountain of Life-Giving Energy
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For ages, humans have been in quest of natural products that could help fortify their bodies. They aspired to be more resilient, better equipped to handle pressure, physical and mental exhaustion. Many of them resorted to various plant-based remedies, dietary supplements, or substances like coffee or energy drinks. Given the choice between natural products and artificial aids, one should opt for the former. Ashwagandha is one such plant that is used to boost resilience and vital forces. When is it advisable to use ashwagandha and in what doses? What are the health properties of this plant?
What is ashwagandha?
(Withania somnifera), also known as medicinal Spiosinus, is a plant that belongs to the Solanaceae family.. It is a medium-sized shrub with evergreen leaves.. Under favorable conditions, it can grow up to approximately 2 meters in height.. Its flowers are small and yellow, while its fruits are red berries.. Ashwagandha is native to dry soils of the subtropical region.. It can also be cultivated in moderate climates, in which case it is an annual plant.. The root of the plant is the most precious part, as it is a source of highly valued adaptogenic substances.. Adaptogens have the following effects: - reducing oxidative stress, - hepatoprotective and antitoxic, - hypoglycemic, - immunomodulatory, - cognitive function aiding, - vitality and libido enhancing, - mood and well-being improving, - anabolic.
Withania somnifera – health advantages
Withania somnifera, also known as Ashwagandha, has been used as a medicinal plant for six thousand years. It is as popular as Chinese ginseng. In Ayurvedic medicine, the root of Withania somnifera is used to treat numerous diseases and disorders of the body. Ayurveda doctors recommend it as a diuretic, insecticide, astringent. They also attribute it to aphrodisiac properties and even mild narcotic properties. Withania somnifera also contains glikowitanolid, which has strong antioxidant and detoxifying properties. Thanks to this substance, Withania somnifera has a calming effect against stress. It is also an excellent supplement for supporting memory, abstract thinking, and learning ability. In the root of Withania somnifera, there are large amounts of steroid laktones, which have a strong anabolic effect. It is also recommended for athletes who engage in strength training due to its anabolic effect and quick post-workout recovery. The root of Withania somnifera is also used as a strengthening agent for older people. Studies show that long-term use of Withania somnifera root can provide relief in rheumatic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Withania somnifera also has a strong antidepressant effect. In addition to the above properties, the use of Withania somnifera can also bring benefits in the following cases: – gastric ulcers, – liver diseases, – poisoning, – insomnia, – skin diseases, – infertility. It is recommended for all those who lead a demanding lifestyle, as it increases the body's adaptation to an increasingly demanding environment.
Ashwagandha - dietary supplement
The pharmaceutical market offers a wide range of dietary supplements containing ashwagandha, such as tablets, capsules, powdered roots or herbal infusions. The lowest effective doses range from 300 to 500 mg daily. It is recommended to consume ashwagandha with main meals. It is not recommended for pregnant women and individuals taking calming, sleep-inducing, or anesthetic drugs to use ashwagandha. Ashwagandha constitutes a valuable source of plant raw material; however, it is important to adhere to the manufacturer's dosage recommendations.