32 Miraculous Benefits of ‘Ashwagandha’

“Nature itself is the best physician.” 

- Hippocrates

Introduction: 

Ashwagandha is one of nature’s most powerful gifts to humankind. Ashwagandha derives its name from two Sanskrit words: Ashwa (meaning ‘horse’) and Gandha (meaning ‘smell’). Some say, it was so named because of its uncomfortable aroma, which is often likened with the smell of horse-urine. 

Ashwagandha is also known as Indian ginseng, Indian winter cherry and poison gooseberry. Some of its other Sanskrit names are Ashvakandika, Asgandh, Gandhapatri, and Palashaparni. The botanical name of the Ashwagandha plant is Withania Somnifera. It is a small plant which grows to a height of about 1.5 metres. Although different parts of the plant have various medicinal uses, it is the root that is most popularly used as a highly effective supplement with several benefits for the physical and mental health of humans. 

A native plant in India, some parts of Middle East and Africa, Ashwagandha  has rampant mentions in Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, African and Chinese medicines, and is considered an adaptogen and an aphrodisiac. Adaptogen is a natural substance that helps the human body and mind adapt to stress. Aphrodisiac is something that stimulates sexual desire. 

Here is a summary of the vitals of the Ashwagandha plant: 

Sanskrit Names: Ashwagandha, Ashvakandika, Asgandh, Gandhapatri, and Palashaparni

English Names: Indian ginseng, Indian winter cherry and poison gooseberry

Botanical Name: Withania Somnifera

Country of Origin: India, Middle East and Africa

References: Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, African and Chinese medicines.

Salient Features: Adaptogen & Aphodisiac

Although mainstream research on the benefits of this multi-talented plant-supplement is still limited, widely accepted alternative medicinal research and anecdotal evidence does indicate multiple health benefits from the consumption of Ashwagandha Tablets in right dosage and under medical guidance. Here are 32 miraculous benefits of Ashwagandha Churna: 

General Health Benefits: 

1. Improves immunity.
2. Aids antibody generation.  
3. Boosts stamina. 
4. Aids weight-loss.
5. Alleviates pain and inflammation.

Mental Health Benefits:

1. Prevents anxiety and depression. 
2. Heals insomnia. 
3. Boosts memory power. 
4. Augments cognitive functioning. 
5. Beneficial in treating Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s.

Endocrinological Health Benefits:

1. Manages diabetes. 
2. Reduces cortisol levels. 
3. Boosts testosterone.
4. Normalises thyroid. 

Cardiac Health Benefits:

1. Lowers cholesterol and triglycerides.
2. Strengthens heart muscles. 
3. Reduces risk of heart attacks. 
4. Improves heart health. 

Orthopaedic Health Benefits:

1. Boosts bone health. 
2. Eases arthritis.

Male Reproductive Health Benefits:

1. Increases libido in males.
2. Treats issues related to infertility. 
3. Treats pyospermia.

Female Reproductive Health Benefits: 

1. Aids menopause-related issues. 
2. Helps heal post-pregnancy fatigue.

Hair & Skin Health Benefits:

1. Heals scalp and hair infections. 
2. Prevents hair-fall. 
3. Prevents and heals acne.

Other Health Benefits:

1. May help in respiratory diseases like asthma. 
2. Treats ulcers. 
3. Diminishes vitiligo. 
4. Has anti-cancer properties.

Warning: Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic medicine, and consuming it without informed medical guidance or under the supervision of a qualified wellness coach, can sometimes cause mild to moderate side-effects such as headache, sleepiness, and stomach upset, usually as a result of overdosing or unsuitable dosing. Rarely, allergic reactions and rapid heartbeat have been reported. Pregnant women should avoid using ashwagandha because it can cause premature delivery.