Learn the Health Benefits of Ashwagandha Root
Ashwagandha Root
Ashwagandha, also known as Indian winter cherry, is a shrub belonging to the nightshade family. It reaches a height of 5-6 feet and, like the tomato (that also belongs to the nightshade family), it has yellow flowers and red fruits (the size of berries). Ashwagandha flourishes in India, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh.
Ashwagandha means “horse’s smell” because the roots smell similar to a sweaty horse. It is also believed to give one the strength of a horse when taken.
The health benefits of ashwagandha root are numerous. It has been used for hundreds of years as an herbal remedy and is said to be one of the most important herbs used in ayurvedic medicine. Ashwagandha is referred to by some herbalists as “Indian ginseng” because it is similar to ginseng used in traditional Chinese medicine.
Benefits
Research has shown that many elements of ashwagandha root are antioxidants, “free radical scavengers” that protect and repair cells from damage. Ashwagandha root helps boost the immune system and also works as an adaptogen (a substance that strengthens the body, thus making it easier to adapt to stress or change).
Ashwagandha root can help:
- calm the mind
- promote a good nights sleep
- reduce anxiety
- increase libido
- reduce swelling
- suppress pain
- increase sperm count
- improve memory
- heal wounds
- prevent early signs of aging.
Helping in the treatment of fever, colds, cough, asthma, arthritis, diarrhea, nausea, candidiasis, hypertension, and cancer are other health benefits of ashwagandha root.
You can take dried ashwagandha root in a capsule form.
To prepare ashwagandha tea, add 3/4 - 1 1/4 teaspoons of ashwagandha root to boiling water and boil for 15 minutes. Let it cool and drink (up to 3 cups a day).
Ashwagandha root should not be taken for long periods of time. Use only in “times of need”.
Pregnant women should avoid ashwagandha because it is believed to be a mild abortifacient. Consult with a doctor before giving to small children, if breastfeeding, or if taking medication.
Photo Credit
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