Taking Ashwagandha as an Herbal Supplement
The Indian Winter Cherry has Numerous Health Benefits
Sep 15, 2009
Ashwagandha, which comes from an Indian phrase meaning horse’s scent (due to the fact that it smells like a sweaty horse) grows in several areas of the world. It is found growing wild in Africa and parts of the Mediterranean. In India, ayurvedic practitioners have used it for centuries; the demand is so high that it is now commercially farmed throughout much of the country. Taking ashwagandha root has been shown to promote health in numerous aspects, making the plant valuable to those who grow it. (Source: Chopra.com)
Ayurvedic Traditions
Ayurveda has been practiced in India and surrounding areas for over 5,000 years. It is a lifestyle that promotes balance between the various aspects of the psyche and wellbeing of the whole body. Ayurvedic traditions now incorporate modern medicine into practices that include yoga, Vedic astrology and other wellness methods, including the use of herbal supplements to promote health. (Source: Ayurveda.com)
Benefits of Ashwagandha
The roots of the ashwagandha plant are rich in numerous antioxidants that have been proven to improve the overall function of the immune system, the macula, reduce pain in joints and other areas of the body. Taking ashwagandha can help the body resist stress due to its adaptogenic properties; adaptogens work by virtue of simply promoting the body’s natural health through antioxidants, which is part of what makes ashwagandha so effective.
Ashwagandha can be used to help treat insomnia, anxiety and help improve concentration, making it an ideal herbal supplement for those suffering various symptoms and women going through menopause. (Source: Naturalherbsguide.com)
Forms of Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha comes in a few forms, most notably the pill form made from the root extract. It is also available in capsule form. The Indian Winter Cherry, as it is also known, is even made into tea that can be useful for people who don’t want to add another pill to a barrage of other medications.
When ashwagandha is processed, most companies practice traditional ayurvedic methods, meaning that the ashwagandha will be processed in a vegetarian and organic fashion. Ashwagandha can be found in most organic and health food stores, and can also be ordered off of the Internet.
Risks of Ashwagandha
Despite its many health benefits, taking too much ashwagandha can have adverse effects on gastrointestinal health. Those who are on sedatives or who have overactive thyroids should avoid ashwagandha, as its stimulation of the adrenal glands will interfere with medications designed to slow down the adrenal system. Pregnant women should avoid taking ashwagandha, and those drinking alcohol should not consume ashwagandha at the same time as the alcohol. (Source: Naturalstandard.com)
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