Ashwagandha literally means "smell of a horse", because the roots smell like a horse! It belongs to the nightshade family. It's an ancient medicinal herb & been used for over 2,500 years!! It is a small shrub with yellow flowers & native to India & North Africa. Other names for this amazing herb are Indian ginseng (though the 2 aren't related), winter cherry or somnifera root. The numerous health benefits of this herb are attributed to the high concentration of withanolides which are a group of steroids that have been shown in laboratory tests to suppress cancer cells and act as an antioxidant. There has been more than 200 studies done on the healing benefits of this herb!! Ashwagandha is one of the most commonly used & most extensively researched adaptogens around. It contains restorative & rejuvenating properties and helps the body to remain in balance. It can be used long term as it is gentle & mild, yet a powerful adaptogen. It's highly prized in Ayurvedic medicine!!
The list of benefits for this amazing herb is quite extensive, so here goes!!!
*Adaptogen
*Promotes new nerve growth & is a neuro protective
*Anti-inflammatory
*Brain rejuvenator
*Thyroid balancing
*Helps neurological function & has been tested to help MS
*Anti-depressant
*Anti-malarial properties
*Reduces stress
*Treats adrenal fatigue
*Anti-anxiety
*Increases strength, stamina & endurance
*Can prevent & treat cancer
*Lowers & stabilizes blood sugar
*Lowers cholesterol
*Boosts immunity
*Anti-tumor agent
*Promotes death of tumor cells
*Anti-oxidant
*Reduces cortisol (stress hormone)
*Nerve Tonic
*Soothes frayed nerves
*Reduces spasms
According to research, one should take 500-1,000 mg daily.
Caution: NOT to be used during pregnancy
Is it an essential oil or dried herb in capsules and where can it be found to buy it?
ReplyDeleteit's an herb from the root. it's best to buy in bulk and do your own teas or capsules as there are many questionable additives in otc capsules. if you do a search a bunch of places will come up. read your ingredients & order from a reputable site.
ReplyDeleteI have the liquid form and think it is amazing
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