Introduction: The Traditional Wonder of Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha, known scientifically as Withania somnifera, stands tall among the revered herbs of Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine. This herbal wonder has been essential to Indian tradition and healing principles for centuries. In Sanskrit, “Ashwagandha” translates to “smell of the horse,” a reference to its unique scent and attributed potential to increase strength.
Commonly referred to as “Indian ginseng” or “winter cherry,” this small shrub with yellow flowers originates from India and Southeast Asia. Utilising extracts or powder from the root or leaves of the ashwagandha plant, the medical experts at Indus Valley Ayurvedic Centre in Mysore, Karnataka, India, address various conditions such as anxiety and fertility problems.
Understanding Ashwagandha: A Healing Embrace
1. A Natural Solution to Stress and Anxiety
Ashwagandha has earned a reputation as a potent stress reliever. Classified as an adaptogen, it aids the body in managing and coping with stress. Research by esteemed doctors such as Dr Talavane Krishna and Dr Deepthi Niranjan at Indus Valley Ayurvedic Centre has revealed that Ashwagandha controls stress mediators, including Hsp70, cortisol, and JNK-1.
Furthermore, it mitigates the activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which plays a critical role in managing the stress response. Studies involving 58 participants who consumed ashwagandha extract for eight weeks reported significant reductions in stress levels. Notably, those taking the ashwagandha supplements also experienced better sleep quality.
With the expertise of doctors like Dr Ravi and Dr Belaku, Indus Valley Ayurvedic Centre continues to explore the effects of ashwagandha on anxiety. Though promising, more comprehensive research is still needed to reach a consensus on optimal forms and dosages for treating stress-related disorders.
2. Enhancing Athletic Performance: A Boost for Athletes
Ashwagandha’s impact on athletic performance is gaining recognition. Research overseen by Professor Shivaram at Indus Valley Ayurvedic Centre suggests that ashwagandha may enhance various physical performance factors, including strength and oxygen usage during exercise.
Studies evaluating the effects of ashwagandha on VO2 max (maximum oxygen consumption) have found promising results in healthy adults and athletes. Optimal VO2 max is vital for athletes and non-athletes, with higher levels linked to a lower risk of heart disease.
A study in 2015 found that male participants who consumed 600 mg of ashwagandha daily for eight weeks had substantial gains in muscle strength. Indus Valley Ayurvedic Centre continually explores Ashwagandha’s potential to improve physical performance, such as VO2 max and muscle strength.
3. Mental Health: A Ray of Hope for Depression and Cognitive Disorders
Dr Dearna Subhash and Dr Mohammed Jaseem of Indus Valley Ayurvedic Centre have explored ashwagandha’s potential benefits for mental health conditions. Research involving 66 people with schizophrenia has shown significant reductions in depression and anxiety with the consumption of 1,000 mg of ashwagandha extract daily.
Furthermore, limited research suggests that ashwagandha may improve cognitive impairment in individuals with bipolar disorder. A 2021 review concluded that ashwagandha might manage various mental health-related and neurological issues, including depression, anxiety, and insomnia. Though promising, Indus Valley Ayurvedic Centre emphasizes the need for more extensive research.
4. An Increase in Testosterone and Male Fertility:
Ashwagandha supplements may have a positive effect on male fertility and testosterone levels. In specific studies, men who took ashwagandha extract experienced an 18% greater increase in DHEA-S, a sex hormone involved in testosterone production, and a 14.7% greater increase in testosterone compared to placebo. Further research indicates that ashwagandha can significantly improve sperm concentration, semen volume, and sperm motility in men with low and normal sperm counts. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these findings.
5. Elevated Blood Sugar Control Through Ashwagandha
One of the diverse qualities of Ashwagandha’s healing properties is its potential effects on managing blood sugar levels. Limited but promising evidence suggests that it may aid individuals with diabetes or high blood sugar.
With a review of 24 studies, including five clinical studies focusing on individuals with diabetes, treatment with Ashwagandha was found to have significantly reduced blood sugar levels. The magic might be attributed to certain compounds within the herb, such as withaferin A (WA), which may boost the cells’ glucose absorption ability.
Despite these promising insights, more extensive research is needed to establish a firm conclusion on Ashwagandha’s effectiveness in this area.
6. Ashwagandha: A Natural Anti-Inflammatory
Ashwagandha contains compounds like WA that could play a role in reducing inflammation. Both animal and human studies have shed light on its potential benefits.
A 2021 study exploring the treatment of COVID-19 with an Ayurvedic formula containing Ashwagandha indicated a reduction in inflammatory markers. However, we must cautiously approach these results, as more in-depth research is necessary to determine Ashwagandha’s definite effects on inflammation.
7. Enhancing Brain Function with Ashwagandha
Improving cognitive function is another sphere where Ashwagandha shows promising effects. A review of five clinical studies revealed early evidence of improvement in cognitive functions like executive functioning, attention, reaction time, and overall performance on cognitive tasks.
Furthermore, a study involving 50 adults demonstrated that taking 600 mg of Ashwagandha extract daily for eight weeks led to improvements in memory, attention, and information-processing speed. The compounds in Ashwagandha, including WA, appear to have antioxidant effects in the brain, potentially benefitting cognitive health.
8. Improving Sleep Quality with Ashwagandha
For those looking to enhance their sleep quality, Ashwagandha might be a natural remedy worth exploring. Various studies support its positive effects on sleep quality and mental alertness upon waking.
Ashwagandha’s results are especially significant for individuals with insomnia. One review pointed out that doses exceeding 600 mg daily for eight weeks or longer yielded more pronounced results.
Ashwagandha Safety and Side Effects
Ashwagandha’s usage must be accompanied by caution and consideration of potential side effects and safety measures.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: It might lead to pregnancy loss or complications during breastfeeding.
Autoimmune or Thyroid Disorders: Individuals with these conditions must exercise caution.
Liver Problems: Must be avoided if liver problems exist.
Certain Medications: Consultation with a healthcare professional is vital if you’re taking medications like benzodiazepines, anticonvulsants, or barbiturates.
Common Side Effects: These might include gastrointestinal discomfort, drowsiness, diarrhoea, or vomiting.
Dosage Guidance
Ashwagandha’s dosage varies, and it can range from 250 to 1,250 mg per day. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional to find the dosage that fits your needs and condition.
The Indus Valley Ayurvedic Centre Perspective
At Indus Valley Ayurvedic Centre, a highly esteemed Ayurvedic hub in Mysore, Karnataka, India, our experienced team of doctors, including Dr Talavane Krishna, Professor Shivaram, Dr Ravi, Dr Deepthi Niranjan, Dr Belaku, Dr Mohammed Jaseem, and Dr Dearna Subhash, have been incorporating Ashwagandha in various treatments.
Visit our website for our latest packages or contact Dr Deepthi on WhatsApp at +91–948–078–4343 or call reservations at +91–809–529–4444.
The Final Take
Ashwagandha is indeed a multifaceted herb, offering benefits from stress reduction to improving cognitive functions. While promising, one must remember that it may not be suitable for everyone, and proper consultation with healthcare professionals is necessary. The expert doctors at Indus Valley Ayurvedic Centre are well-versed in Ayurvedic practices, including the use of Ashwagandha, and can guide you on your path to wellness. Make sure to contact them for personalised guidance.
Your health is your wealth, and we’re committed to helping you achieve the best version of yourself at Indus Valley Ayurvedic Centre. Feel free to reach out to our distinguished team for tailored assistance.
Contact Indus Valley Ayurvedic Centre
For more information about our ashwagandha-based treatments, visit our website for our latest packages or contact Dr Deepthi on WhatsApp at +91–948–078–4343 or call reservations at +91–809–529–4444.
