20 Benefits of Ashwagandha

Withania somnifera commonly referred to as ashwagandha is a plant that has grown to become one of the most widely used Ayurvedic herbs. This is not surprising considering the numerous healing benefits of ashwagandha. This brings us to the question, what is ashwagandha used for?

What is Ashwagandha Used For?

The plant also referred to as the king of Ayurvedic herbs has been used for over 4000 years to manage conditions such as gastrointestinal disorders, pain, skin infections, rheumatoid arthritis, fatigue, diabetes, cerebellar ataxia, Parkinson’s disease, high cholesterol, among other conditions.

It has also been used as an adaptogen to help the body resist psychological and physiological stress by helping the human body adapt to the constantly changing environments. Ashwagandha may also be used to help manage anxiety, issues with the immune system and fertility issues. In addition to its rejuvenating and restorative benefits, the herb has been used as an antimalarial and antidepressants.

Benefits of Ashwagandha

There are many benefits of ashwagandha and beyond the most common. The findings of many studies conducted on the plant suggest that it may be effective in managing the symptoms of the following conditions.

Ashwagandha for Stress

Ashwagandha is widely used in the Western world to help manage stress. The level of stress involved in normal day-to-day activities in contemporary times is rapidly increasing and it becomes imperative to find a way to keep it within a normal range. If you are in a similar state, then taking ashwagandha for stress relief may be the answer you have been searching for.

The herb helps to minimize stress levels [1] by lowering the levels of cortisol [2] in the body. The cortisol levels increase significantly when you are stressed and thus affect other neurotransmitters and hormones in the body hence encouraging symptoms like poor sleep, depression, and anxiety.

As already stated, the herb offers adaptogenic benefits that help the body to effectively manage the symptoms of stress and anxiety, as well as protective benefits of minimizing the degenerative impact of stress on the immune system. Ashwagandha has also been shown to be effective as an antioxidant as it effectively helps to eliminate the cause of mutation, premature cell death, as well as oxidative stress. [3]

Furthermore, the herb helps to reduce the destructive effects of chronic stress on cells in the body thereby slowing down the process of aging. To effectively manage your stress levels, it is recommended to take 500 mg of ashwagandha twice daily depending on your stress levels.

Ashwagandha for Anxiety

Ashwagandha is used as a natural treatment option for anxiety. The herb contains neuroprotective and anxiolytic properties that help people with anxiety reduces the symptoms of stress, maintain a healthy and calm mental state. [4]

Anxiety can be very frustrating and is often accompanied by symptoms like muscle twitches, irritability, inability to focus, rapid heartbeat, insomnia, upset stomach, shortness of breath, and much more. If symptoms are left unchecked, they can pose a serious medical threat to the sufferer. [5]

As an adaptogen, ashwagandha can be used to help manage these symptoms because it can be used to reduce anxiety and stress responses using withanolide glycosides and inhibiting the increase of stress causing hormones like cortisol and NADPH diaphosphorase. Taking ashwagandha for anxiety may help people suffering from the condition to maintain a calm feeling even when they find themselves in stressful situations.

Since the herb helps anxiety sufferers to maintain a balanced psychological and emotional state, it is effective aid in lowering the severity of anxiety attacks or even prevent them if it is consumed in advance.

An article titled “ Uses of Withania somnifera (Linn) Dunal (Ashwagandha) in Ayurveda and its Pharmacological Evidences” found that ashwagandha is effective in reducing the concentration of stress causing compounds in the blood. [6]

A study conducted on humans entitled “An Alternative Treatment For Anxiety” found that a group of participants who took ashwagandha for a few weeks, recorded a significant reduction in their stress levels compared to other groups that took a placebo. [7] The study was conducted to analyze the metrics of stress.

A dose of about 500 mg of ashwagandha twice daily is reportedly effective in managing mild anxiety. Meanwhile, up to 2000 mg may be required to manage severe anxiety. It is recommended to gradually increase the dose from 300 mg until you find the dosage that works best for the severity of your attacks. Always consult your medical care provider before beginning any supplement regimen.

Ashwagandha for Depression

Another condition that has been shown to be effectively managed with ashwagandha root extract is depression. It is reported that the herb is as effective as prescription antidepressants. Interestingly, unlike other pharmaceutical antidepressants, ashwagandha has little to no side effects.

It is not surprising that the traditional prescription medications used in treating depression work by only numbing the symptoms of sufferers. These medications are also accompanied by unpleasant side effects.

The benefit of taking ashwagandha for depression is that it can alleviate the symptoms of anxiety, stress, and depression, thus enhancing a calm mental environment and better sleep for depression sufferers without unwanted side effects. According to a report by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), in 2016, more than 16 million adults in the United States suffered from depression. [8]

The report added that the condition may affect individuals of all age groups and genders and that at least 1 in 8 adolescents aged 12 to 17 years in the country are diagnosed with major depression every year. Due to its adaptogenic benefits, ashwagandha may alleviate the symptoms of depression by enhancing adrenergic signaling, thus reducing the effects of depression-related chemicals like reserpine and clonidine. [9]

Ashwagandha helps in replacing the feeling of sadness, hopelessness, and boredom with a relaxed, and de-stressed feeling of peacefulness, happiness, and mental clarity. Large doses of ashwagandha may also serve as a sedative for individuals diagnosed with depression, hence encouraging rest and return to normal sleep cycles. However, always consult your medical care provider before beginning any supplement regimen. The dose of ashwagandha for depression will be dependent on the severity of your condition starting at 500 mg twice daily.

Ashwagandha Benefits for Thyroid Dysfunction

The health benefits of ashwagandha include helping to manage the different types of thyroid dysfunction. It is reported that this herb helps alleviate the symptoms of thyroid dysfunction by enhancing the production of the T4 hormone while simultaneously reducing the damage caused to cells in the body.

This is believed to be extremely beneficial for individuals diagnosed with hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Thyroid hormones such as T3 and T4 perform several functions in the body including but not limited to regulating the growth of long bone, increasing the rate of basal metabolism, regulating the metabolism of fats, vitamins, proteins, and carbohydrates, as well as increasing the sensitivity to hormones released in response to stress.

Several factors can affect the synthesis of thyroid hormones in the body thus leading to either hyperthyroidism (the generation of excessive thyroid hormones in the body) or hypothyroidism (the generation of too little hormones). An article found that the condition may also be hereditary. [10]

Hyperthyroidism may be accompanied by symptoms such as an increase in the size of the thyroid gland, muscle weakness, insomnia, irritability, weight loss, diarrhea, and poor tolerance to heat. The symptoms associated with Hypothyroidism may include weight gain, tiredness, depression, constipation, and poor tolerance to cold. These symptoms may differ between males and females as well. [11]

Hyperthyroidism, if left unattended may cause liver damage and issues related to mental health. Ashwagandha for hypothyroidism functions by helping to enhance the production of the T4 hormone thereby helping to alleviate the symptoms of thyroid dysfunction.

Although high levels of T4 may damage cells, cause oxidative stress and promote the growth of free radicals and damage cells, it is important to state that taking ashwagandha for thyroid dysfunction may be effective in aiding to combating these free radicals. The free radicals utilize a process known as lipid peroxidation to oxidize the cells’ lipid membranes thus damaging them, but as an antioxidant, ashwagandha helps to inhibit the growth of free radicals and minimize lipid peroxidation. [12]

This invariably means that even if this herb triggers the production of a more T4 hormone, it simultaneously reduces the risk of having too much of it in the body. It is effective in aiding the conversion of the T4 hormone to the T3 hormone.

An article entitled “Indian Traditional Rasayana Therapy and its Health Benefits” found that the adaptogenic ashwagandha root benefits may effectively enhance hormone balance thereby alleviating the symptoms that accompany an underactive thyroid. [13]

The way ashwagandha benefits for thyroid helps to alleviate the symptoms of hyperthyroidism (a result of an overactive T3 hormone) by enhancing the conversion of T4 into T3. Since this herb promotes an increase of the levels of T4, thus preventing oxidative stress, it slows down the generation of active T3. [14]

However, it is important to state that a small dose is usually prescribed in Ayurvedic medicine as a minimal amount may effectively trigger the natural regulation of the thyroid hormones. One or two teaspoonfuls of the leaf or root powder mixed with honey are usually prescribed..

It is both effective and safe to take 500 mg of the root extract 2 times daily. Ashwagandha root extract is reportedly more effective in managing thyroid dysfunction when combined with other Ayurvedic herbs such as bauhinia bark and guggulu gum.

Ashwagandha for Sleep

Ashwagandha for sleep disorders is another health benefit of this herb. It is widely used to treat insomnia and other sleep disorders. [15] The condition results when the body loses the ability to control sleep-wake cycles which are caused by the significant reduction in metabolism and immunity coupled with stress and hormonal balance.

Although ashwagandha does not function as a sedative, it helps to treat insomnia by improving the levels of major antioxidant enzymes and metabolism, as well as reducing stress and repairing brain cells that are damaged. The herb helps the body to be more active thereby restoring the natural mechanisms that regulate sleep cycles. [16]

Sleep is an essential part of human life and it is a state where the body is able to rejuvenate and repair its tissues. Sleep disorders, if left unattended, may lead to an increased risk for other conditions such as depression, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and even cancer. [17]

Ashwagandha is believed to be effective in treating insomnia as it helps to increase strength and makes the body more active thus restoring the natural mechanisms that enhance sleep. It is recommended to take a dose of 500 mg of ashwagandha twice daily to restore calmness and peaceful sleep.

It is advised to take ashwagandha before bed with milk or other hot beverages. Ashwagandha for insomnia is more effective if used with valerian root.

Ashwagandha for Libido

There are several factors that affect sexual desire and performance such as aging, stress, anxiety, depression, and hormonal imbalances. Issues relating to these areas of life may significantly affect intimate relationships as well as reduced self-esteem and confidence.

Taking ashwagandha for libido may be a great idea because the herb is widely used as a sexual enhancer to increase sex drive, enhance fertility [18] by improving the quality of sperm, increase vitality, reduce stress, anxiety, balance hormones, and increase stamina, strength, and testosterone [18] in men. It also helps to improve cognition and memory and promotes a feeling of happiness.

By performing these functions, this herb helps to enhance sexual desire, support a healthy sex drive and increase sexual performance and satisfaction. Ashwagandha is translated from the ancient Sanskrit language to mean “the smell of a horse,” and it is believed that it has an effect to provide its users with strength and sexual performance similar to that of a horse.

Recent studies have also shown this herb to be effective in improving female sexual function. A study published in BioMed Research International [19] looked at the effects of Withania somnifera arousal, lubrication, orgasm, and satisfaction in 50 study subjects. They found that this herb was beneficial in increasing all of these factors in women participants.

Ashwagandha Benefits for Men

Ashwagandha herb benefits include helping to reduce cortisol levels [20] and strengthen the immune system [21] thus reducing anabolic hormones and stimulating the production of testosterone. It also increases the production of HDL cholesterol which also functions to boost the production of testosterone.

Ashwagandha Benefits for Women

Ashwagandha boosts sexual function in women. [22] At the onset of menopause, women begin to experience a drop in estrogen levels, mood swings, low libido, change in eating habits, stress, anxiety, and depression. Premenopausal women may also experience a fall in estrogen levels, a decrease in sexual desire, and sexual exhaustion as a result of drugs, poor eating habits, alcohol, or even masturbation.

Herbal supplements like Ashwagandha may help boost sexual desire by increasing endorphins and other vital hormones. It is also been found effective in revitalizing passion by stimulating the production of DHEA and balancing hormones in the body thus increasing libido and sensitivity of the clitoris, as well as enhancing blood flow to the vagina. [23]

Ashwagandha is believed to be more effective in strengthening orgasms and boosting sexual desire when combined with Shilajit, Panax Ginseng, Mulberry, Maca, Muira Puama, and Schisandra Chinensis. About 500 mg of ashwagandha daily is reportedly safe and effective in boosting libido.

Ashwagandha Benefits for Weight Loss

Ashwagandha is believed to be beneficial in aiding weight loss by increasing immunity and metabolism, reducing stress levels, burning fat, improving blood circulation, and reducing fatigue among other benefits.

This herb also helps to reduce cortisol levels, blood sugar levels, and thyroid dysfunction, boost BMR by aiding the conversion of T4, enhance the conversion of fat into energy, kill fat cells, inhibit the growth of new fat cells, and increased RBC count, strength, fitness, and stamina. [24]

These benefits of ashwagandha may aid in weight loss as the main cause of weight gain is stress, high cortisol levels [25], poor metabolism, and high blood sugar levels. Both the leaves and the root of this herb are effective for the condition and it can be consumed with milk or cardamom.

Ashwagandha benefits for weight loss are believed to be more potent if used with other adaptogens like Rosea, Rhodiola, and Eleuthero. About 300-500 mg of ashwagandha daily is reportedly safe and effective in aiding weight loss.

Ashwagandha for Weight Gain

Aside from its benefits in aiding weight loss, ashwagandha also helps in weight gain as it is believed to contain muscle-building properties. The herb has been shown to be effective in preventing and reversing the weight loss related to the side effects of chemotherapy drugs without any interference with their functions. [26]

It is also prescribed to boost the immune system thus preventing the muscle wasting caused by HIV. Additionally, ashwagandha uses in ancient Ayurvedic medicine includes preventing and reversing the weight loss caused by the decline of testosterone levels in men.

Taking Ashwagandha for weight gain offers additional benefits including relieving stress and balancing the thyroid hormones. About 500 mg of ashwagandha twice daily is reportedly safe and effective in enhancing weight gain.

Ashwagandha Testosterone Booster

Ashwagandha has been shown to have testosterone boosting effects. [27] This herb is prescribed in Ayurvedic medicine to boost the levels of this hormones as well as treat conditions that are related to low libido, and infertility. The withanolide properties of the herb are believed to be effective in boosting the level of testosterone in men.

Low levels of the hormones could lead to infertility, low libido, decrease in sexual satisfaction as well as issues with private and family life. Testosterone is the major hormone in men that is responsible for enhancing virility, strength and muscle mass. [28]

Due to its adaptogenic benefits, this herb functions to help increase sperm motility and improve their quality, reduce stress levels, increase strength and stamina, as well as boost testosterone levels. [29] About 500 mg of ashwagandha for testosterone twice daily is reportedly safe and effective in boosting the levels of the hormone in the body.

Does Ashwagandha Lower Blood Pressure?

A common question people ask is, does ashwagandha lower blood pressure? Fortunately, one of the benefits of ashwagandha includes helping to lowering blood pressure. Hypertension, commonly called high blood pressure, is worsened by anxiety and stress. Ashwagandha helps to lower the blood pressure by reducing cortisol level thus lowering the impact of anxiety and stress.

A study published in the International Journal of Ayurveda and Pharmaceutical Research, found that ashwagandha lowers blood pressure and it may be beneficial in boosting blood pressure when it’s low. [30] About 500 mg of the herb twice daily is reportedly safe and effective in reducing blood pressure in hypertensive patients.

Ashwagandha Benefits for Hair

Ashwagandha is shown to be effective in improving the condition of the skin, hair and even nails. Ashwagandha benefits for hair work by strengthening the hair roots, tighten the grip of the scalp on the hair and stimulate the production of melanin thus darkening its color.

It does with the help of its antioxidant benefits which helps to regulate the hormones in the body, reduce stress, promote better rest and sleep and inhibit the generation of free radicals that cause the rapid aging of the hair, thinning, and wrinkly skin. All these puts together are the major causes of graying and hair loss. [31]

Ashwagandha also has anti-inflammatory effects that may help alleviate the symptoms of both minor and major skin conditions. [32] It is used in Ayurvedic medicine to restore the health and beauty of individuals of all age groups.

It is reported that taking ashwagandha for hair may be more effective in treating and reversing hair and skin problems if mixed with Guduchi. A dosage of 500 mg of ashwagandha twice daily is believed to be effective and safe in treating hair and skin-related problems.

Does Ashwagandha Reduce Inflammation?

Another common question is, does ashwagandha reduce inflammation? Ashwagandha is believed to offer anti-inflammatory benefits thanks to one of its major chemical components – withaferin A. Chronic inflammation may be an indication of the development of disorders and diseases in the body.

If left unattended, inflammation may progress and cause pain and discomfort for the sufferer. Part of the health benefits of ashwagandha is its anti-inflammatory effects. Ashwagandha helps to reduce inflammation by lowering major markers like CRP (C-reactive protein). [33] It is important to state that this marker has also been linked with the risk of heart disease.

In addition, it also helps to stimulate the production of natural killer cells that help to fight diseases and infections in the body. Taking a dose of 500 mg of ashwagandha 2 times daily is reportedly effective in reducing inflammation and improving overall health.

Ashwagandha for Adrenal Fatigue

The healing benefits of ashwagandha include aiding in alleviating the symptoms of people suffering from adrenal fatigue. The adrenal gland functions to release the required amount of hormones like cortisol and adrenaline every now and then.

The duo performs essential functions in the human body. Cortisol is released in stressful situations to help increase the amount of glucose in the body as well as slowing down the production of insulin. Adrenaline is released at times of stress and excitement to help boost energy levels by increasing heart rate thus stimulating quicker circulation of blood. However, when the body is constantly under too much stress, the adrenal gland weakens leading to adrenal fatigue. The condition results when the neuroendocrine stress response of the body is altered due to excess stress that results in the slowdown of systemic activities in order to preserve energy.

Adrenal fatigue is accompanied by symptoms like fatigue, depression, anxiety, muscle weakness, a weakened immune system, salt cravings, and lethargy. [34] If left unattended, the condition may result in incapacitation, that is not associated with adrenal diseases like adrenal insufficiency and Addison’s Disease.

Some of the numerous ashwagandha health benefits are that the herb functions to help prevent oxidative stress by reducing the levels of cortisol, controlling GSH, and reduce the peroxidation of lipids. In Ayurvedic medicine, this herb is widely prescribed as an alternative treatment option for anxiety, oxidative stress, and depression because it helps regulate cortisol levels by increasing it when it is low and reducing it when it is too high.

Ashwagandha also functions to boost the body’s resistance to both physical and chemical stressors. Active components in the herb, withanolides are effective in boosting stamina, swimming endurance, [35], the immune system, enhancing thyroid activities, calming the body and mind, as well as improves cognition.

These benefits put together will help to alleviate the symptoms of adrenal fatigue. [36] A dosage of 500 mg twice daily is reportedly effective and safe in alleviating the symptoms of adrenal fatigue. However, this is dependent on the severity of your condition and other factors like the age of the sufferer.

It is advised not to take more than 6000 mg of the herb in a day. Ashwagandha for adrenal fatigue will be more effective in treating your condition, it is best that you make some lifestyle changes like avoiding caffeine and junk food, eating lots of fruits and vegetables, and getting adequate rest and sleep.

Ashwagandha for Menopause

Ashwagandha root benefits include aiding in balancing hormones in the body thus making it effective in alleviating the symptoms that accompany menopause. Menopause is a critical and stressful phase in the lives of women plus it is accompanied by unpleasant symptoms. These symptoms can include irritability, depression, insomnia, mood swings, anxiety, and forgetfulness.

This time is also characterized by swings in the balance of hormones in the body. When using ashwagandha for menopause, it functions to help alleviate the symptoms. It does this by balancing the emotion-related hormones thus making menopausal women calmer and giving them the ability to control their emotions. [37]

The herb also helps to increase the rate of metabolism, which invariably means it prevents slow metabolism that eventually leads to weight gain during menopause. Ashwagandha also enhances the conversion of the T4 into active T3, thereby aiding in faster metabolism.

The herb also helps to balance the levels of the two hormones. It has been shown to be effective in treating sleep troubles encountered during menopause by regulating the levels of cortisol. It also aids in treating low libido by increasing sexual desire as part of the benefits of ashwagandha. [38]

The reduction of sexual desire is common in menopause because of symptoms such as anxiety, stress, vaginal dryness, and depression. It alleviates these symptoms by stimulating blood circulation to the vagina, lubrication, and enhanced sexual sensitivity. [39]

Ashwagandha also helps to alleviate vasomotor symptoms like night sweats and hot flashes A study conducted on the healing benefits of the herb found that it prevents neurodegeneration and oxidative stress. [40] Menopause is characterized by mood swings and this herb helps to stimulate and regulate the activities of the adrenal glands. [41]

Another study found that taking ashwagandha for menopausal symptoms is effective in making women experiencing the phase calmer by mimicking the functions of the Gamma Amino Butyric Acid (GABA) – a neurotransmitter that helps to relax the body and mind. [42] Women may suffer conditions like osteoarthritis or osteoporosis [43] in menopause, but taking ashwagandha may help in preventing these conditions, according to findings of a study conducted at the CGHS Ayurvedic Hospital in New Delhi, India.. [44]

It is recommended to take a dose of 500 mg of ashwagandha two times daily.

Ashwagandha and Memory

Among the numerous medicinal uses of ashwagandha, one is that it can aid in boosting cognition and alleviating the symptoms of neurological conditions like Huntington’s, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. [45] It helps to treat these conditions by reversing, slowing down and inhibiting neurological decline.

Ashwagandha memory benefits include helping to boost memory and cognitive function by inhibiting the synaptic loss and neuritic atrophy cause by these neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, the antioxidant benefits of this herb may help to prevent the damage to brain cells and maintain the brain at all stages of life.

The herb is believed to have neuroprotective benefits that may help boost visual and spatial memory, enhance the intellect, stimulate neuronal growth, enhance neurotransmitter functions, prevent the neurological conditions [46], and reduces oxidative stress.

These symptoms are usually present in people with memory deficits. A dosage of not more than 6000 mg a day is believed to be both safe and effective in treating neurological conditions.

Ashwagandha and Cancer

Ashwagandha has been prescribed to help alleviate the symptoms of individuals diagnosed with any type of cancer. This is because the leaf and root extracts are believed to contain properties that prevent the terminal condition, boost the efficacy of therapies that are offered to manage the condition, as well as alleviating the unpleasant side effects that result from chemotherapy and radiation. [47]

Cancer is a hyperproliferative condition that is characterized by the transformation of benign tumors (non-cancerous) or healthy cells into malignant cells (cancerous). The disorder also involves an overgrowth and unregulated division of cells, negative changes to the normal process of cell death, invasion of healthy cells, angiogenesis – production of new blood vessels to support the progress of the disorder, as well as metastasis which involves the spread of cancer cells from one organ to another. [48]

Cancer may develop as a result of genetic factors, environmental toxins, viral infections, chronic stress, resistance to drugs, side effects of medications, food contaminated by heavy metals or pesticides, and many other factors.

Ashwagandha helps to manage this disorder by selectively preventing the growth of cancerous cells [49] and the spread of cancer cells by using signaling pathways, decreasing the proliferation of tumor cells while simultaneously increasing survival time, mitigating the unpleasant side effects of agents of chemotherapy without affecting the properties of the medications that reduces tumor, reducing the side effects of radiation therapy, as well as boosting the effectiveness of the treatment. [50]

Herb has been shown to be effective against different kinds of cancer including that of the prostate [51], brain [52], skin [53], breast, and renal. A study conducted on the relationship between ashwagandha and cancer found that the reproduction of colon cancer [54], breast cancer [55] and leukemia cells was inhibited by this herb in lab studies. [56]

Other studies found that one of the chemical components of ashwagandha, Withania A, may be comparable or more effective than the pharmaceutical chemotherapy drugs in stopping the growth and spread of these cells. [57] About 500 mg of ashwagandha twice daily is reportedly safe and effective in managing the symptoms of cancer.

Ashwagandha for Acne

Ashwagandha is prescribed as an alternative treatment option for acne in Ayurvedic medicine. It is believed that the herb is effective in treating the condition because of its anti-inflammatory [58], antibacterial and adaptogenic benefits. Acne is characterized by the production of comedones, nodules, cysts, and pustules.

According to statistics from the American Academy of Dermatologists, acne is the most common skin condition in the United States with about 50 million Americans suffering from the condition. Ashwagandha for acne is beneficial, as it helps to treat the condition by reducing inflammation and irritation caused to the skin by blocked pores.

The withanolides present in the herb allow it to have antibacterial effects, thereby being potent for treating conditions that are bacteria-related, such as acne. A study conducted in 2015 by Dr. Patel and colleagues found that ashwagandha extract is effective in preventing the growth of S. aureus bacteria.

The study is published in the Journal of Pharmaceutical and Science and Bioscientific Research. Ashwagandha also has adaptogenic benefits which help the body adapt better to stress involved in everyday activities. [59] This may be beneficial for people suffering from the condition as stress play a great role in acne production. About 300-500 mg of ashwagandha for acne is reportedly safe and effective.

Ashwagandha for Estrogen

Ashwagandha has been shown to be effective in balancing estrogen in the body. It is reported that the herb may also be beneficial in balancing progesterone levels. Estrogen is the female sex hormone that is produced by the ovaries at the beginning of the menstrual cycle (the first half).

It stimulates the growth of the uterus lining and supports the maturity of the egg before the occurrence of ovulation. Estrogen works better with its sister hormone known as progesterone as the latter help to balance the effect of the former as well as regulate the production and build-up of the uterine lining in every menstrual cycle. [60]

Another important hormone is the testosterone, though, at a low level, it helps improve the overall well being of the body. The balance of the three hormones is essential in maintaining a regular cycle and fertility. However, the balance of the hormones may be affected by the menstrual cycle and menopause. [61]

In the perimenopause phase, there is a significant decrease in the production of progesterone in the second half of the menstrual cycle because the number of cycles also reduces. There is a significant hormonal imbalance in this phase as there are higher levels of estrogen compared to that of progesterone because of the reduction in the number of cycles.

The imbalance persists even as menopause reduces the levels of estrogen, and brings that of progesterone down to the barest minimum. Ashwagandha functions to balance these hormones by stimulating the adrenal system to regulate the effect of the imbalance thus alleviating symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, erratic cycles, and heavy bleeding. [62]

Ashwagandha can also be used as a substitute for hormone replacement therapy usually offered to treat hormonal imbalance in the body. This is good news because about 57 percent of women suffering from hormonal imbalance cannot afford or withstand the process of hormone replacement therapy.

Therefore, taking ashwagandha for estrogen is a more simplified solution to the problem. About 500 mg of ashwagandha twice daily is reportedly safe and effective in managing the symptoms that accompany hormonal imbalance.

Ashwagandha for Erectile Dysfunction

Ashwagandha is also used to help treat erectile dysfunction, simply referred to as ED. The condition is characterized by the continued inability to achieve and maintain an erection that is sufficient to allow a satisfactory sexual performance.

An increasing number of individuals have been diagnosed with the condition, with the estimated numbers to reach 322 million by the year 2025. This is a significant increase of about 170 million individuals compared to 1995. Although erectile dysfunction is a benign condition, it greatly impacts on both the physiological and psychosocial health of those that have been diagnosed with the disorder.

In addition, it affects the quality of life of the families and sexual partners of these categories of individuals. This condition is accompanied by a fear of failure, sexual anxiety, worries about sexual performance, and a reduced sense of pleasure associated with sexual activities. Erectile dysfunction may also lead to chaos in marriage as well as infertility. [63]

Ashwagandha for erectile dysfunction is beneficial as it inhibits the enzyme that lowers Acetylcholine in the brain. Although acetylcholine alone isn’t enough to reverse the condition, it works for hands in glove with dopamine to effectively manage the condition. The latter requires the former to be at its peak in order to work properly.

Ashwagandha root benefit also includes stimulating blood flow [64] throughout the body, triggers the production of nitric oxide [65], increase libido [66], reduce cortisol [67] levels, boost DHEA, and protects the testicles. [68] Ashwagandha dosage for erectile dysfunction is between 500 mg twice daily.

Ashwagandha Effects on Blood Sugar

Finally, it is believed that ashwagandha may help to regulate blood sugar levels. This herb is believed to have numerous benefits that may help improve the overall quality of life. A test tube study found that the herb is also beneficial to diabetics as the researchers discovered that it improved sensitivity to insulin. [69]

Another study found that taking ashwagandha for diabetes is beneficial in lowering fasting blood sugar in individuals diagnosed with the condition. It is important to state that ashwagandha health benefits also include preventing diabetes in people with normal blood sugar levels.

A dosage of 500 mg of the herb twice daily is believed to be safe and effective in managing a healthy blood sugar level.

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