Did you know that Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) has been used as a Rasayana (tonic) in the Indian Ayurveda system for more than 4000 years. In sanskrit ‘Ashwagandha’ means the smell of a horse called so as the roots smell like a horse, believed to give you the vigor of a stallion upon consumption. It is also commonly known as the ‘Indian winter cherry’ and ‘Indian Ginseng’.
In Africa the tribal people used Ashwagandha to treat fever and inflammations. In Yemen the dried leaves are made into paste and that is used to treat burns and wounds and used as sunscreen.
What are the Benefits of Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha is an adaptogen, an aphrodisiac and a stimulant. It is rich in alkaloids, steroidal lactones, Sitoindosides and acylsterylglucosides due to this composition it has the following benefits
Stimulant : A herb used to increase energy levels. The powdered root is mixed with milk and is used to treat malnutrition and underweight
Stress Reduction : Ashwagandha is known to reduce cortisol, the stress causing hormone
Reduce Blood Sugar : Studies have found ashwagandha to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the level of sugar in blood
Reduce Depression : Though studies are pending but the stress reduction properties of Ashwagandha are used to treat depression
Increase fertility in Men : Ashwagandha is a known aphrodisiac it increase testosterone and sperm count and sperm motility
Reduces inflammation : A paste from powdered leaves and water is applied on the skin to reduce inflammation and also to treat boils & pimples
How long does it take for ashwagandha to work?
750–1,250 mg per day can start showing results in 5-8 weeks.
Is it safe to take ashwagandha?
Yes ashwagandha supplements are safe to take as long as they are of good quality.
Does ashwagandha increase testosterone?
Yes it does as it is known aphrodisiac, it increases testosterone and sperm count and sperm motility.
What are Ashwagandha benefits for men?
Ashwagandha is known to increase testosterone, reduce stress, reduce blood sugar and reduce depression. It is also known to increase muscle mass and strength when consumed over a long period of time.
What are the side effects of Ashwagandha?
Although the herb has many positive effects it can also have a few side effects in a rare situation especially when the Ashwagandha supplement is not of the best quality. The side effects include headache, sleepiness, and upset stomach.