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These days, ashwagandha is everywhere. It’s become trendy. But its use is not new. It is also known as Indian ginseng and has been used for thousand of years to treat anxiety and as a helping agent against insomnia. Keep on reading.
  • Scientific name: Withania somnifera L. DunaI
  • Common name: Ashwagandha                                                      
  • Other common names: Indian ginseng, withania, winter cherry or poison gooseberry
  • Family: Solanaceae
  • Origin: India
  • Part of the plant used: mainly root. Leaves and fruits are also appreciated. 

Ashwagandha is a plant used since ancient times in traditional Indian medicine (also known as Ayurveda). The literal translation of the name means “horse smell”. It refers to the strong smell and to the strength and vitality that ashwagandha provides, as it is comparable to that of said animal. Withanolides, alkaloids and lactones are the main active compounds that give ashwagandha its therapeutic properties.

It is especially used as an adaptogen, thanks to its capacity to help adapting to different stressful situations, mentally and physically. The benefits on health have been studied scientifically are more and more known.

STRESS AND ANXIETY

Helps reduce the levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. In addition, it has a calming effect on the central nervous system, making it easier to recover physical and mental balance.

SLEEP

Root extract of ashwagandha improves the quality of sleep and reduces the time needed to fall asleep. This improves our mental state and quality of life.

COGNITIVE FUNCTION

Its antioxidant properties protect brain cells against the damage caused by free radicals. Also, it helps to improve memory and focusing. As an adaptogen, it reduces mental fatigue.

ENERGY AND VITALITY

Contributes to increase energy levels and reduce fatigue, improving vitality and physical performance, as well as the feeling of general well-being.

OTHER USES

Many studies attribute to ashwagandha some properties over cardiovascular health, men’s fertility, diabetes, arthritis and pain analgesic.

Tags #plants