Ashwagandha Powerful Benefits: Health & Beauty | Valkyrine

Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera, is an evergreen shrub native to Asia and Africa, widely revered in Ayurvedic medicine. It is also known for its powerful adaptogenic properties and is often used to reduce stress, improve sleep, and support overall well-being. It is commonly regarded as an adaptogen, meaning it helps the body resist physical and mental stress, though scientific evidence supporting many of its traditional uses remains limited.

At Valkyrine, we recognize the potential benefits of Ashwagandha, but we also believe in the importance of understanding its uses, effectiveness, side effects, and interactions before incorporating it into your wellness routine. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this ancient herb.

Ashwagandha Benefits and Uses

People have traditionally used Ashwagandha for a variety of conditions, particularly stress and anxiety. While the scientific evidence is still evolving, there are some promising findings:

• Anxiety Relief: Ashwagandha is believed to help reduce anxiety. Studies suggest that taking Ashwagandha by mouth might help alleviate anxiety, especially in individuals with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).
• Improved Sleep: It has shown positive effects on sleep quality, especially for individuals struggling with insomnia. Ashwagandha supplementation appears to improve overall sleep patterns in some people.
• People widely recognize for its ability to combat stress. It might help reduce the physical and mental effects of stress, such as fatigue and worry, and may even support healthy weight management related to stress.

Potential Uses (Under Research)

While Ashwagandha has shown promise in helping with anxiety, sleep, and stress, its effectiveness for other conditions, including COVID-19, is still under investigation. As research continues, we encourage you to stay informed and consult a healthcare professional.

Ashwagandha Side Effects

Most people consider Ashwagandha possibly safe when taken as a supplement for up to 3 months. However, there are some potential side effects to be aware of:

• Gastrointestinal Issues: Large doses of It may cause stomach upset, diarrhea, or vomiting.
• Liver Concerns: Rarely, Ashwagandha may cause liver problems, including severe liver failure in some individuals.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: It is likely unsafe during pregnancy, as it may increase the risk of miscarriage. There is not enough reliable information on its safety during breastfeeding, so it’s best to avoid it if you’re nursing.

Precautions and Warnings

While Ashwagandha is generally safe for short-term use, there are specific groups of people who should exercise caution or avoid it altogether:

• Autoimmune Diseases: Ashwagandha may stimulate the immune system, potentially worsening conditions like multiple sclerosis, lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis. If you suffer from any autoimmune disease, consult a healthcare provider before use.
• Liver Disease: Due to its potential to affect liver function, people with liver disease should avoid using Ashwagandha until more is known about its safety.
• Thyroid Disorders: Ashwagandha may increase thyroid hormone levels, which could be problematic for individuals with thyroid conditions or those on thyroid hormone medications.
• Surgery: Ashwagandha can have a sedative effect, which might interfere with anesthesia and other medications used during and after surgery. You should stop taking Ashwagandha at least two weeks before any scheduled surgery.

Ashwagandha Interactions

Ashwagandha has the potential to interact with various medications, including:

• Immunosuppressants: Ashwagandha might increase immune system activity, which can interfere with the effects of immunosuppressant medications.
• Sedative Medications (e.g., Benzodiazepines): Combining Ashwagandha with sedatives may lead to excessive drowsiness or breathing problems.
• Thyroid Hormones: It may enhance the effects of thyroid hormone medications, potentially causing an imbalance.
• Diabetes Medications: It can lower blood sugar levels, combining it with diabetes medications could lead to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Monitor your blood sugar closely if using both.
• Blood Pressure Medications: It may lower blood pressure, and when combined with antihypertensive medications, it may cause blood pressure to drop too low.

Dosing Recommendations

The typical Ashwagandha dosage for adults is up to 1000 mg daily, generally taken for up to 12 weeks. However, the optimal dosage may vary depending on the individual and the specific health condition. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.

Conclusion

At Valkyrine, we believe in the healing power of nature, but we also prioritize safety and evidence-based practices. Ashwagandha offers several health benefits, particularly for stress, anxiety, and sleep issues, but it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating it into your routine.

Stay informed and prioritize your health with Valkyrine’s holistic approach to wellness. Be sure to choose trusted, high-quality herbal products for your journey toward a balanced and healthy lifestyle.

Conclusion

Hope that this article provided you with useful insights into the benefits and uses of the magical herb – Ashwagandha. You can start using Ashwagandha topically as oil or face pack to get all its benefits for your skin. However, do remember to consult a doctor before consuming this ancient ayurvedic medicine. Keep in mind the safety note and side effects as well. 

About the Author

Shreya Dalela

Shreya Dalela is a certified Yoga instructor and a professional dancer trained at The Danceworx. She’s passionate about Ayurveda and holistic living with over 6 years of experience in doing extensive research and content creation in the domain.

About the Reviewer

Dr. Kanchan Kachroo

Certified Ayurvedic Doctor (Central Council of Indian Medicine)