9 Powerful Benefits Of Ashwagandha For Women
Apr 13, 2024
The herb ‘Aswagandha’ which is commonly referred to as ‘Indian ginseng’ is an Ayurvedic medicine that is used for its adaptogenic functions. It has been used for centuries and has many health benefits for women particularly including stress relief, hormonal balance, fertility, and physical and mental health improvement. This article will focus on the advantages of ashwagandha for women as well as on their supporting scientific facts.
Table of Contents:
- What is Ashwagandha?
- How Is Ashwagandha Used As Medicine?
- 9 Proven Health Benefits of Ashwagandha for Women
- What is the Best Way to Consume Ashwagandha?
- Conclusion
- FAQs
What is Ashwagandha?
Adaptogenic power is one of the most special characteristics of ashwagandha. The very name of 'ashwagandha', taken from Sanskrit, tells a lot about its essence – 'ashwa' is a horse and 'gandha' is a smell, which refers to the unique smell of the herb and its age-old promise to turn anybody into a horse.
How Is Ashwagandha Used As Medicine?
In ancient times, ashwagandha has been used as a medicine. It contains bioactive compounds, which are believed to contribute to its health benefits. Here are they:
Withanolides: These compounds are believed to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-modulating properties. They may help reduce inflammation, oxidative stress, and improve immune function.
Alkaloids: Ashwagandha contains alkaloids like somniferine and somniferinine, which may have sedative and anxiolytic effects(reference). They are thought to help reduce stress and anxiety levels.
Flavonoids: Flavonoids are antioxidants that help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. They may also have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties(reference).
9 Proven Health Benefits of Ashwagandha for Women
1. Stress and Anxiety Relief
Ashwagandha can help women to manage stress and anxiety. Clinical studies, among them a randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study, have shown that ashwagandha reduces cortisol levels, the stress hormone, thereby promoting general well-being.
An important study, which was published in the Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine, found that ashwagandha root extract decreased stress by 44% and cortisol by 28%.
2. Hormonal Balance and Menstrual Health
One of the ashwagandha benefits for women is its adaptogenic properties, which control female hormones, reducing the symptoms of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), and helping in the regulation of menstrual cycles.
3. Fertility and Sexual Health
Ashwagandha is also known to promote fertility and sexual health. Studies have shown improvements in reproductive hormone levels and ovarian function. The supplementation with ashwagandha can greatly improve female sexual function, increasing libido, arousal, and overall sexual satisfaction.
4. Muscle Strength and Athletic Performance
Ashwagandha has a positive impact on muscle strength, endurance, and recovery in active women. The ashwagandha supplement can result in significant increase in muscle strength, muscle size, while decreasing in exercise-induced muscle damage in the participants.
5. Cognitive Function and Mental Health
The neuroprotective qualities of Ashwagandha help to improve cognitive function, memory, and mental alertness. According to a study published in the Journal of Dietary Supplements, the impact of ashwagandha on women was related to improved cognitive functioning that included increased attention, information processing speed, and memory.
6. Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects
The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of Ashwagandha are important in fighting oxidative stress and inflammation inside the body and so preventing the development of chronic diseases. The benefits of ashwagandha for women are supported by several studies, such as those published in Phytotherapy Research, which outlines its ability to lower inflammatory markers.
7. Cardiovascular Health
Initial studies indicate that ashwagandha may have positive effects on different cardiovascular health indicators. The use of ashwagandha reportedly was linked with decreased blood pressure and better lipid profiles, thus indicating the possible benefits for heart health.
8. Skin and Hair Health
Ashwagandha’s antioxidant properties also help in achieving healthier skin and hair, fighting off the signs of ageing and promoting dermatological health. The use of this plant in the traditional Ayurvedic practices for improving skin vitality is backed by modern scientific studies.
9. Weight Management
By modulating stress responses and cortisol levels, ashwagandha contributes to weight management and represents a natural solution for those who want to keep or reach an ideal weight.
What is the Best Way to Consume Ashwagandha?
There are many ways to consume ashwagandha or to include it in your diet, depending on your preferences. Here are a few examples:
-Capsules: Ashwagandha capsules are a convenient option for those who prefer a quick and easy way to take the supplement.
-Powder: Ashwagandha powder can be mixed into warm milk or water, and you can add honey or other natural sweeteners for taste.
-Tea: You can make ashwagandha tea by steeping the powder or dried root in hot water.
However, it is important to consider the amount of ashwagandha that can be used for you. For this, you can consult an ayurvedic practitioner.
To Conclude
Taking ashwagandha daily can greatly improve overall health and vitality. Given the benefits it offers, it is evident that this powerful herb can be a beneficial part of your daily routine. Ayuvya, which is dedicated to purity and quality, creates ashwagandha-based products to capture these advantages and assist in your quest for perfect health. Start your wellness journey with Ayuvya now and set free the power of a healthy and lively life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Adverse effects are uncommon, but may include minor gastrointestinal disturbance, drowsiness, or allergic reactions. High amounts can cause more severe problems including stomach upset or diarrhea.
Ashwagandha is generally safe and may also support liver health as it has antioxidant properties. Nevertheless, people with liver diseases should seek advice from the healthcare provider before use.
Ashwagandha is not known to directly increase estrogen levels in females. Instead, it works by supporting the overall balance of hormones in the body.
Ashwagandha does not cause weight gain normally and can help in weight control by reducing stress-induced cravings and possibly increasing muscle mass and strength.
Although direct evidence is scarce, the stress-reducing and antioxidant properties of ashwagandha can promote healthy hair growth by reducing stress-related hair loss and maintaining scalp health.
Ashwagandha daily intake can result in low stress and anxiety levels, positive mood, improved cognitive function and balanced hormones. With time, it may also help with stronger immunity and general well-being.
The recommended dosage of ashwagandha can vary depending on the form and concentration of the product. Generally, a daily dose of 300-500 mg of a standardized extract is considered safe and effective for most people.
Indeed, girls, as part of a balanced health regimen, can take ashwagandha on a daily basis. Nevertheless, it is essential to stick to the prescribed dosages and seek advice from an ayurvedic healthcare provider, particularly if it is a long-term use.
Ashwagandha can be taken by women either in the morning or in the evening, depending on the individual preference and the desired effect. It is better to take it at night for better sleep quality and in the morning, the doses can help with energy levels throughout the day.
Women can benefit from Ashwagandha in many ways, such as stress reduction, hormonal balance, increased fertility and improved energy. It promotes mental health, increases energy levels, and may relieve symptoms of menopause and PMS.
Pregnant women, those with autoimmune diseases, or individuals on thyroid medication should avoid ashwagandha due to possible contraindications.
