Ashwagandha is an incredibly healthy medicinal herb. Its botanical name is Withania somnifera,It is classified as an "adaptogen" meaning that it can help your body manage stress. Aswhagandha also provides all sorts of other benefits for your body and brain. For example, it can lower blood sugar levels, reduce cortisol, boost brain function and help fight symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Here are 7 benefits of ashwagandha that are supported by science.
1.It Can Reduce Blood Sugar Levels
In several studies, ashwagandha has been shown to lower blood sugar levels. A test-tube study found that it increased insulin secretion and improved insulin sensitivity in muscle cells. Several human studies have confirmed its ability to reduce blood sugar levels in both healthy people and those with diabetes.
2.It Has Anti-Cancer Properties
Animal and test-tube studies have found that ashwagandha helps induce the apoptosis or "programmed cell death" of cancer cells. It also impedes the growth of new cancer cells in several ways. One of these ways is believed to be the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are toxic to cancer cells but not normal cells. Another mechanism causes cancer cells to become less resistant to apoptosis
3.It Can Reduce Cortisol Levels
Cortisol is known as a "stress hormone" because your adrenal glands release it in response to stress and when your blood sugar levels get too low. Unfortunately, in some cases, cortisol levels may become chronically elevated, which can lead to high blood sugar levels and increased fat storage in the abdomen. Studies have shown that ashwagandha may help reduce cortisol levels.
4. It May Help Reduce Stress and Anxiety
Ashwagandha is perhaps best known for its ability to reduce stress. Researchers who looked at its effects on rat brains reported that it blocked the stress pathway by regulating chemical signaling in the nervous system. Several controlled human studies have shown that it can effectively reduce symptoms in people with stress and anxiety disorders.
Although it hasn't been studied much, a couple of studies suggest ashwagandha may help alleviate depression.
6.It Can Boost Testosterone and Increase Fertility in Men
Ashwagandha supplements may have powerful effects on male hormone levels and reproductive health. In a study of 75 infertile men, the group treated with ashwagandha had an increase in sperm count and motility.
Research has shown that ashwagandha may improve body composition and increase strength. One study's purpose was to determine a safe and effective dosage for ashwagandha. Healthy men who took 750–1250 mg per day had gained muscle mass and lost fat after 30 days
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