Since ancient times, ashwagandha has been known for its medicinal properties. Does it, however, also support brain health? The herb ashwagandha is thought to have extraordinary therapeutic qualities. Ancient Indian rishis, or holy men, were aware of its health benefits and used this knowledge to successfully treat a variety of mental and physical conditions.
Often referred to as Indian ginseng, it strengthens the immune system and combats neurological issues. Your endocrine and reproductive systems will benefit as well. For its neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and antidepressant qualities, ashwagandha root powder is well-known.
IN WHAT WAYS DOES ASHWAGANDHA HEAL YOUR BRAIN?
The medicinal and therapeutic benefits of ashwagandha have been proven in numerous studies. Additionally well recognised are its effects on the human brain. This plant promotes long life and benefits the brain and mental ability. It offers benefits for neuroprotection. According to experts, it enhances spatial and visual memory, prevents nerve cell degeneration, reduces oxidative brain stress, and improves memory. Our brains are supported and maintained in this way throughout life, but especially as we get older.
Benefits Of The Plant’s Different Parts:
Leaves
Ashwagandha leaves have analgesic and antioxidant qualities that are used to treat fever, chronic discomfort, cough and cold symptoms, and viral infections.
Flowers and Seeds
Ashwagandha flowers are used to improve fertility and treat renal issues, including kidney stones, due to their strong diuretic and aphrodisiac qualities.
The seeds, on the other hand, are utilized to treat and prevent infectious diseases and parasite invasions because they have anthelminthic characteristics.
Roots:
The root is used to cure conditions including brain difficulties, diabetes, constipation, infertility, skin disorders, and more. This is because it contains powerful aphrodisiac, diuretic, anti-helminthic, antioxidant, anti-depressant, and anti-diabetic effects.
Although Ayurveda doctors used to make their own ashwagandha formulations in the past, these products are now readily available on the market and have a wide range of health advantages.
What neurological problems can be prevented by ashwagandha supplements?
It lessens anxiety
Ashwagandha has sedative, soothing, and relaxing qualities that are more effective than many prescription drugs.
It is just as effective to take a high-potency Ashwagandha extract for five days as the sedative lorazepam or the antidepressant imipramine. By bringing down stress levels by as much as 80%, it lessens anxiety. This is the ideal complement for those who work and live in stressful environments. In fact, it typically lowers cortisol levels, a crucial hormone connected to stress, by about 26%.
A natural relaxant
Ashwagandha reduces tension and anxiety by acting as a natural sedative. Researchers assert that its effects are comparable to those of imipramine and lorazepam, two widely used pharmaceuticals, but without their negative side effects. It accomplishes this by inhibiting the release of cortisol, also referred to as the stress hormone. Ashwagandha’s incredible antioxidant properties also play a role.
It protects the brain from neurodegeneration
The brain and neurological system can suffer some degree of damage from emotional, physical, and chemical stress. However, ashwagandha can shield the brain from cellular ageing. Thus, it provides us with a defense against neurodegenerative conditions including Parkinson’s, Huntington’s, and Alzheimer’s. Ashwagandha prevents, slows down, and reverses neurological aging. It offers defense against the synaptic loss and neuritic atrophy brought on by these disorders.
How is Ashwagandha consumed?
Roots and berries can be taken for the medicinal benefits of ashwagandha, although it’s more common to find ashwagandha in supplement capsules, tablets, powder, tinctures, and teas.
Start with an ashwagandha tea to gradually include the herb into your diet and improve your hydration, which is important for overall health.
If you want to be more inventive, you can directly add ashwagandha powder or the raw form to your food. For breakfast, you may, for instance, use the powder in overnight oats, granola, smoothies, or nut butter.