Ashwagandha extract is a natural supplement derived from the root of the Ayurvedic herb Withania somnifera. This herb is traditionally found in Africa and India and may be beneficial in the treatment of a variety of health issues. Ashwagandha extract is administered orally in capsule, tea or tincture form.
Historical Health Applications
In traditional Ayurvedic, Indian and African medicine, ashwagandha extract is used to decrease inflammation caused by arthritis, reduce fevers and protect the body against infectious diseases. Treatment with ashwagandha, which is also referred to as Indian ginseng, has also been historically used to induce sleep. As a general health tonic, this type of extract is also purported to improve health and longevity and increase energy.
Stress Relief
In modern times, ashwagandha extract is classified by many herbalists as an adaptogen. Adaptogen is a specific substance believed to enhance your body’s ability to handle stress. Taking ashwagandha extract supplements may reduce stress and fatigue; however, to date, these medicinal benefits have only been demonstrated in animal studies. Additional clinical studies in humans are necessary to further support the stress-relieving properties of ashwagandha extract.
Improved Immune System Function
Ashwagandha extract may also help boost the function of your immune system, which may make it easier for your body to fight off pathogenic invaders. The high level of iron in this supplement may help stimulate red blood cell production or promote healthy growth in children. Prepared as a tea, ashwagandha extract may also increase the number of immune cells responsible for destroying infectious pathogens in your body. The results obtained from human trials examining the immune effects of ashwagandha extract are preliminary and additional, controlled studies are required to validate these findings.
Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Tumor Activity
Steroidal constituents of ashwagandha, called withanolides, may act to decrease inflammation in your body, which may help reduce symptoms of pain or swelling. Additionally, in vitro studies performed using specific cancer cell lines demonstrate that ashwagandha extract may destroy cancer cells. Though these preliminary results are encouraging, more extensive research studies in humans are necessary to substantiate the both the anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties of this supplement.
Additional Benefits
Additional benefits associated with ashwagandha extract include enhanced brain function, diminished depression and reduced anxiety, though sufficient data supporting these claims are lacking. Topical formulations of ashwagandha extract may serve as a analgesic for the skin. Treatment with this supplement has also been shown to improve blood sugar and insulin regulation; however, studies examining the effects of ashwagandha extract on blood sugar and insulin have only been performed in animals.
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Best Of Odisha does not provide medical advice It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the Best Of Odisha Site.
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