Ashwagandha: Health benefits, Side effects, Uses And More

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is no doubt the top herb in Ayurveda. The uses and benefits of this herb are more than any other herb. Usually, it is used in combination with other herbs. However, it is amply potent and can help with several health issues. Ashwagandha is native to India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, and because of its men's health benefits, it is known as Indian ginseng or winter cherry. 

Ashwagandha is an adaptogen and a natural aphrodisiac, meaning it can help improve mental health as well as sexual function and desire. The medicinal properties of this herb, especially its roots, make it effective and a must part for Ayurvedic men's health remedies. Furthermore, it is rich in nutrients and vitamins, offering overall health benefits, reducing inflammation, and treating insomnia, arthritis, and other conditions.

Ashwagandha Benefits  

Although Ashwagandha helps with arthritis and inflammation, there are two main aspects that Ashwagandha helps with. They are mental and physical health issues, specifically men's health issues. 

For Mental Health 

Research states that Ashwagandha stimulates GABA, a neurotransmitter that controls the hyperactivity of the brain. Also, it stops the unnecessary accumulation of protein in the brain, which can injure the brain. Chronic stress can negatively affect the brain, impairing memory and reducing the size of certain brain regions. Also, antidepressants have a negative effect that is not reversible. Ashwagandha helps with these issues without damaging the brain. 

Apart from that, Ashwagandha offers the following benefits. 

• Ashwagandha can help with insomnia. It calms the brain and allows one to fall asleep easily. 
• One of the most prominent benefits of Ashwagandha is that it reduces anxiety. Ashwagandha can reduce cortisol levels, a hormone released in response to stress, and help lower symptoms of anxiety and stress.

• It provides energy in the body and fights off laziness.
• Ashwagandha sharpens the brain. As per some studies, Ashwagandha may have neuroprotective properties, which could help protect the brain from damage and promote healthy brain function. Moreover, it improves memory, especially in people with mild cognitive impairment. Furthermore, some studies suggest that it helps with Alzheimer's disease or Parkinson's disease. 
• It also strengthens body muscles and eradicates the drained-out feeling that goes hand in hand with depression.

For Men's Health Issues 

The name "Ashwagandha" comes from the Sanskrit language and translates to "smell of the horse." The belief is that consuming it would give a horse strength and vitality, making it a perfect herb for men's health issues. Here are some of the ashwagandha benefits that stand out. 

• Many trainers recommend it as a supplement to help improve athletic performance and increase muscle strength. It builds stamina and improves performance. Similarly, it helps with performance anxiety, for example. Mostly premature ejaculation occurs if the person is stressed or has anxiety issues. Ashwagandha can help with both issues. 
• Ashwagandha increases libido. It helps improve sexual life by helping with stress. Thus, fixing this issue helps with erectile dysfunction as well.
• Ashwagandha increases testosterone levels in the body. Studies suggest that low T is the cause of low stamina, ED and sometimes infertility as well. 
• Asghand Nagori is one of the top herbs that improve sperm quality, quantity and motility. It improves fertility in both men and women. 
• Overall, it improves immunity and also helps in improving overall sexual health. 

Ashwagandha Side Effects and Precautions 

Most herbs don't have side effects, but it is important to understand that overdose can be harmful. Usually, when a person has never used any herb, it may cause temporary stomach issues like diarrhea. In that case, it is best to lower the ashwagandha dosage or use it on alternative days. Once the stomach gets used to it, you may increase the dosage but not more than 1-2 grams per day. Your consultant can always tell you better how to take Ashwagandha. 

Apart from that, if the person has some food allergy, it is a must to consult your doctor before using Ashwagandha. Also, if someone is on some medication, do not use it or ask your doctor before using it. Ashwagandha's side effects can be reduced easily if you don't overdo the quantity and get a good consultant. 

Pregnant and lactating mothers should not take Ashwagandha. 

How to Take Ashwagandha

The consultant usually suggests the Ashwagandha dosage depending on the reason for consuming it. It is available in different forms, including capsules, tablets, powders, and extracts. The dosage usually depends on how you are taking it. It can also be consumed as tea or added to smoothies. As far as timing is concerned, for insomnia, it's best to take it at night and for other issues, take it twice. 

Powdered Form Ashwagandha Dosage

• Take 1/2 teaspoon of Ashwagandha powder, and mix it with warm milk. 
• Add one teaspoon of honey. 
• Drink it two times a day. 
• Continue this for 1- 2 months for visible results.

Conclusion 

That is known as the "king of herbs." The name is given because of its ultimate benefits. It surely is a magical herb for men's health issues. However, it is important to get it from a good place. The market has many qualities, and it can be an issue if you don't get the best one.