Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is probably one of the most important plants in Ayurveda, a traditional Indian medicine. Its root smells like a horse (in Sanskrit, ashva means “horse” and gandha means “smell”) and is said to confer the strength and virility of a horse. Several parts of the plant are used, but the most common in supplements is an extract of its roots.

Ashwagandha improves the body’s defense against diseases and protects against cellular damage caused by free radicals thanks to its potent antioxidant properties.

It is an adaptogen with strong anti-inflammatory properties, used for thousands of years by the indigenous people of India to manage stress, relieve chronic pain, calm the immune system and protect the brain.

It improves overall health by relaxing you and reducing fatigue, anxiety, insomnia and symptoms of depression. Indeed, as an adaptogen, it supports the body against stress, which can be the main cause of many diseases. Although this may seem contradictory, it also increases power output, testosterone and sperm quality in infertile men.

But above all, it is very beneficial for the brain thanks to its antioxidant effects. Natural healers, such as Ayurvedic doctors, use this herb to reduce oxidative stress, a factor that contributes to brain problems and neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s, Huntington’s and Alzeimer’s diseases. It has a cognition-enhancing effect and has been useful in children with memory deficits and in elderly people with memory loss. It can also slow the growth of cancer cells.

The root of Ashwagandha contains alkaloids, steroidal lactones, saponins, and withanolides. It is regarded as anitoxidant, anti-inflammatory, tonic, aphrodisiac, diuretic, astringent, thermogenic and stimulant.

In summary, Ashwagandha is an adaptogen that contributes to physical and mental well-being in times of increased stress.

It is good for:

  • Anxiety
  • Stress
  • Fatigue
  • Joint Pain
  • Brain Issues
  • Sleep
  • Cancer

To treat these health problems, you can take daily 300-500 mg of Ashwagandha Root Extract with first meal of the day. It’s safe to use ashwagandha in tea and food.