Note to readers: Ancient Wisdom draws on ancient wisdom that has helped generations of people with time-honored wellness solutions for everyday fitness challenges, persistent health issues, stress management, and more. This is a series of guides that shed light. Through this series, we aim to draw on traditional insights to offer modern solutions to health concerns.
Stress is unavoidable in modern times. As we spend more time on daily chores and obligations, we have much less time to relax and rejuvenate, impacting our mental health. People also face sleep problems and getting quality sleep is a distant dream for many. Lack of sleep and stress are risk factors for many chronic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
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Given that Ayurveda has many traditional treatments that have been used for centuries and can have incredible health benefits, the ancient medical practice is more relevant than ever. It’s becoming more relevant. In this installment of Ancient Wisdom, we bring you the amazing benefits of ashwagandha that can not only help you better cope with stress, but also relieve symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Ashwagandha or Withania somnifera has been considered an excellent mental health herb in Ayurveda for centuries. The word ashwagandha (ashwa+ganda) means horse scent, which comes from the unique aroma of the plant’s roots. Withania somnifera comes from the Latin word “somnifera” which means to induce sleep. This ancient herb has been described in texts dating back 6000 years. Regarded as a powerful rasayana, ashwagandha has been used as a tonic, aphrodisiac, narcotic, diuretic, anthelmintic, astringent, fever agent, and stimulant. Ashwagandha is known to increase physical and mental strength and the ability to cope with stress. This is why this herb has been given to reduce symptoms in people with anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders.
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Ashwagandha benefits for mental health
Ashwagandha uses go beyond its use in mental health. It is added to children’s milk as it is considered a tonic for strength and growth. This therapy is also effective in treating rheumatism and arthritis. It is also effective against albinism, constipation, insomnia, nervous breakdown, and goiter.
“Ashwagandha is a powerful herb that has positive effects on mental health. It is known to reduce symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression. By balancing the body’s stress hormones, it calms the mind. Ayush Aggarwal, founder of RASAYANAM, says that numerous studies have shown its effectiveness in improving mood and reducing symptoms associated with various mental health conditions. states that it has been done.
Benefits of different parts of ashwagandha
- Ashwagandha leaves are bitter and are recommended for fever and painful swelling.
- Ashwagandha flowers have astringent, purifying, diuretic, and aphrodisiac properties.
- Ashwagandha seeds have anthelmintic properties and when combined with astringents and rock salt will remove white spots on the cornea.
- Ashwagandha Rishta prepared from it is used for hysteria, anxiety, memory loss, fainting, etc. It also acts as a stimulant and increases sperm count.
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Other benefits
- Ashwagandha helps prevent ulcers in the gastrointestinal tract caused by stress
- Ashwagandha also has cancer-preventing properties. It can be used as an adjunct to cancer chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
- Ashwagandha is also known to have positive effects on patients suffering from neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.
- Ashwagandha also has antidepressant effects and can help people with depression recover.
- Ashwagandha has anti-arthritic effects and can soothe the nervous system from pain responses.
Ashwagandha uses in ancient times
Ashwagandha has its roots in ancient Ayurveda and belongs to a subgroup of Rasayanas known as Medyarasayana. Medha means related to the mind. Ashwagandha is given to children who have memory problems or who have lingering illnesses in old age.
“In ancient times, ashwagandha was commonly used in Ayurveda. Ashwagandha is considered a rejuvenating herb and is used to boost the immune system, increase energy levels, and improve overall vitality. People used various parts of the plant, including the roots and leaves, to create tonics, powders, and teas that promoted general health and well-being. The most potent form of ashwagandha One is Ashwagandha KSM66, which is extracted directly from the roots in the highest concentration of the Ashwagandha plant. It is also known as the largest source for enhancing cognitive functions in the human anatomy,” says Agarwal. .
How to take ashwagandha
“Ashwagandha is available in different forms. It is available as a powder, capsules, or liquid extract. The powder can be mixed with warm water, milk, or honey and taken as a drink. Capsules are a great way to take precise doses. It’s useful. Take it as a post-workout supplement to speed up muscle recovery and relax your mind and body,” Agarwal added.
Who should not take ashwagandha
Although ashwagandha offers many health benefits, it may not be suitable for everyone, says Agarwal.
- The effects on pregnancy and lactation are not well understood and should be avoided by pregnant and lactating women.
- People with autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus should consult their health care provider before using ashwagandha, as it can stimulate the immune system.
- Additionally, people planning surgery should stop taking ashwagandha at least two weeks before surgery to avoid possible interactions with anesthesia or other medications.
Interesting facts about ashwagandha
Historical significance: Ashwagandha has a rich historical background. Its use dates back thousands of years in traditional Indian medicine, making it one of the oldest medicinal herbs known.
Adaptogenic properties: Ashwagandha is classified as an adaptogen, a substance that helps the body adapt to stress and promotes overall balance. Supports the body’s ability to cope with various stressors, both physical and mental.
Botanical name: The scientific name Withania somnifera is derived from the Latin word somnifera, meaning sleep-inducing, emphasizing its calming effect on the nervous system.
Multiple health benefits: Apart from mental health, ashwagandha is also used to improve physical performance, increase muscle mass and strength, and improve overall vitality.
next series
We hope you enjoy reading Part 11 of our series on ancient wisdom. Part 12, which discusses the benefits of almonds for muscle strength, skin health, and weight loss, will be published on his October 6th. looking forward to.
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