15 Science Backed Benefits Of Ashwagandha For Skin, Health & Weight Loss

Greetings, curious minds! Ever wondered what makes Ashwagandha so special? Well, prepare to be captivated because this is no ordinary plant; it is an ancient medicinal herb that provides many benefits. 

The importance of ashwagandha has been imbued in Ayurvedic, Siddha, and Unani traditions and is also listed in the Indian Materia Medica. The benefits aren’t just restricted to physiological functions but also mental health, as it improves brain function and concentration. Also enriched with withanolides, ashwagandha is nature’s warrior against tumour growth and inflammation. 

Moreover, it helps to regulate the blood sugar levels, reduce stress and help with anxiety or depression. The advantages of ashwagandha are simply too many, and this blog will highlight all the benefits of ashwagandha for skin, health and weight loss. So, without further ado, read on to learn more about this treasured plant!

Table Of Contents

1. What Is Ashwagandha?

2. Top 6 Ashwagandha Benefits For Health

3. 4 Potential Ashwagandha Benefits For Skin

4. 5 Potential Ashwagandha Powder Benefits For Weight Loss

5. How To Use Ashwagandha For Weight Loss?

6. Nutritional Value Of Ashwagandha

7. The Final Say

8. FAQs

9. References

What Is Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha is a shrub with yellow flowers and is native to India and Southeast Asia. Its scientific name is Withania somnifera, and in Sanskrit, it means "smell of horses." It is also called "Ginseng" and “winter cherry” in India.

The roots and leaves of Ashwagandha are enriched with medicinal properties that make it highly effective in treating stress and anxiety. People often use its leaf extract and root powder to alleviate the symptoms of stress.

It is also used to treat rheumatism and insomnia, manage heart health, prevent arthritis, increase fertility in men, and enhance mental stability. 

Top 6 Ashwagandha Benefits For Health

The top 6 health benefits of ashwagandha include:

1. Reduces Stress And Anxiety

Ashwagandha has been recognised as a natural adaptogen known for reducing stress and anxiety. Many researchers say that it enhances your psychological health and relaxes you. An evidence-based research study recommends ashwagandha may work better compared to lorazepam.

This herbal remedy fights against stress-induced cortisol levels and protects us from experiencing anxiety and stress.

2. May Help To Prevent Arthritis

Withaferin A, which is the active compound in ashwagandha, exhibits analgesic features, implying that it is a strong natural painkiller. It is capable of preventing pain signals from reaching the CNS, thereby helping to reduce arthritis-induced pains, menstrual cramps, and headaches.

Besides its analgesic effects, ashwagandha also possesses anti-inflammatory capabilities that would aid in decreasing pain and inflammation within the whole body.

Also Read: Osteoarthritis: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

3. Supports Heart Health

Ashwagandha is also beneficial for improving cardiovascular health. Regular consumption improves and maintains normal blood pressure required by the heart for proper functioning.

Additionally, studies have shown that it contains substances that lower cholesterol levels in the blood, leading to improved cardiac function.

Also Read: How To Check Heart Health At Home?

4. An Excellent Supplement For Athletes

Ashwagandha can greatly improve athletic performance. Studies suggest that consuming ashwagandha can increase the body's oxygen consumption during intense activities. 

This is measured using a person's VO2 max ( volume, "O₂"), which indicates their heart and lung health. Additionally, ashwagandha may help to increase muscle strength.

5. Improves Mental Health Conditions

Ashwagandha has been proven to be a great aid in improving mental health and minimising the disorders of mental health. It was proposed for use in patients with mild cognitive impairment or schizophrenia, according to several research studies. It also improves the reaction times during cognition and psychomotor tests. 

6. Increases Fertility In Men

Ashwagandha has been considered to be a miracle or magic herb for centuries because of its health and healing properties. One of its lesser-known benefits is improving fertility in men. A randomised controlled placebo study by the American Journal of Men's Health showed that ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) can increase testosterone levels by up to 17%, which is a significant improvement. 

Furthermore, it was noted that ashwagandha could increase sperm motility and balance reproductive hormone levels, which contributes to an overall positive impact on men’s fertility and reproductive health. 

Also Read: Foods And Herbs To Improve Fertility

4 Potential Ashwagandha Benefits For Skin

Let’s discuss some benefits of ashwagandha for the skin:

1. Supports Skin Rejuvenation

Ashwagandha powder is rich in active compounds such as isopelletierine, anaferine, cuseohygrine, anahygrine, and antioxidants that aid in synthesising collagen in the skin. As a result, the skin’s elasticity and firmness are maintained, giving a more supple and youthful appearance. 

Moreover, when the skin is exposed to the environment, the antioxidants protect it from any damage that could be caused by free radicals and stressors such as UV rays. 

2. Ward-Off Infections

Ashwagandha powder has natural antimicrobial properties that can help protect your skin from infections such as dryness, itching, or yeast overgrowth. 

Whether you apply it topically or consume it, the powder can help neutralise these infections and promote healthy, clear skin. Incorporating ashwagandha powder into your skincare routine may be a beneficial addition to maintaining healthy and nourished skin.

3. Reduces Skin Allergies
Dermatitis, insect bites, psoriasis, wounds, and eczema cause inflammation and a burning feeling. Applying the paste of ashwagandha powder helps reduce the skin's irritation and inflammation.

Also Read: Skin Allergies By Food: Symptoms Causes And Treatment

4. Slow Ageing Signs And Acne Onset

You will be delighted to know that ashwagandha powder can become an effective home remedy against pesky pimples and slow signs of ageing. It helps to control the skin’s sebum production and cleanses from within. Thus, it reduces the onset of acne while keeping the skin looking younger and slowing down the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. 

5 Potential Ashwagandha Powder Benefits For Weight Loss

Ashwagandha powder does help to treat the root cause of the issues that hinder weight loss. Let’s discuss 5 amazing benefits of using ashwagandha powder for weight loss: 

1. Improves Metabolism

Ashwagandha powder is also known to improve the body’s metabolic rate, which is one of the most efficient ways to lose weight. It also contains a few active ingredients that lower the number of free radicals in the body, as this blog mentioned above. It can help in enhancing the weight loss process and expedite this course of action.

2. Strengthens Immune System

Low immunity causes many health issues and can cause weight gain due to excess medications and treatments. Consuming ashwagandha powder regularly helps to strengthen immunity, so the risk of health conditions is reduced, and the risk of weight gain is reduced.

Also Read: What Should You Look For In Immune Boosting Foods

3. Treats Insomnia

Insomnia is the most significant factor that causes weight gain. Ashwagandha powder reduces insomnia and stress, resulting in a healthy weight and curbing unnecessary hunger pangs. For better results consume ashwagandha powder along with other foods to treat insomnia.

4. Lowers Stress

The blog has already cited how this treasured plant can become your ally in repelling the effects of stress. As we know, stress in daily life or at the workplace can contribute to unhealthy lifestyles and habits, which in turn can lead to weight gain. 

Hence, ashwagandha is an anti-stress accomplice that can help lower the cortisol hormone levels, which are often associated with stress and anxiety. By doing so it can help you feel more relaxed, calm and revitalised.

5. Boost Energy Levels In Exercise

Ashwagandha is an iron-rich herb that boosts energy levels by speeding up blood circulation. Thus, it helps to increase energy by speeding up the calorie-burning process and results in weight loss.

How To Use Ashwagandha For Weight Loss?

Ashwagandha powder has a strong and distinct smell, so it is usually mixed with milk, warm water, ghee, or honey before consumption. This makes it easier to take and enhances its nutritional value. 

Although various supplements are available, ashwagandha powder is considered the best and most organic option. Some ways to use ashwagandha powder for weight loss include: 

1. Ashwagandha Powder With Water

To prepare this immunity drink: 

• Take one tablespoonful of the powder and mix it with warm water until it is completely dissolved.

• For a touch of sweetness, add a teaspoon of honey. 

• Drink in the morning for best results.

2. Ashwagandha Powder With Ghee

To boost immunity: 

• Mix 1 teaspoon of ashwagandha powder and 1 teaspoon of ghee.

• You can add a pinch of ginger powder to enhance its antiviral properties. 

• Consume the mixture directly or warm the ghee before adding the powder.

3. Ashwagandha Powder With Milk

To do this, just follow the steps:

• Boil a glass of milk with a teaspoon of ashwagandha powder for about 4-5 minutes. 

• You can add a pinch of turmeric powder and a small amount of honey to enhance the taste.

• Enjoy this comforting beverage while it's still warm.

Nutritional Value Of Ashwagandha 

The nutritional value of ashwagandha (per 100 gms) includes: 

The Final Say

Ashwagandha is a powerful herb that stands as a timeless testament to the healing wisdom of ancient India. Today, its magical neutraceutical values are revered by doctors and dieticians. 

This blog helped you to comprehend the possible health benefits of ashwagandha and its implications for maintaining good health. However, it is necessary to remember that although safe for consumption, the right dosage is extremely crucial. Therefore, you have to consult your dietitian or medical advisor before consuming this. 

Here's to the enduring vitality of ashwagandha and the journey towards a healthier, more balanced life!

FAQs

1. Can we mix ashwagandha with water?

Yes, you can boil ashwagandha roots or mix powder with water, milk, and other liquids. 

2. What are the benefits of ashwagandha?

The benefits of ashwagandha powder are:

• It is helpful to reduce stress and anxiety

• It may help to prevent arthritis

• It supports heart health

• It is an excellent supplement for athletes

• It improves mental health conditions

• It boosts testosterone and increases fertility in men

3. What are some ashwagandha side effects?

Some disadvantages of ashwagandha are:

• Diarrhoea

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Stomach upset

• Drowsiness

• Fatigue

4. Is ashwagandha gluten-free?

Yes, ashwagandha is a gluten-free herb and is safe to consume in moderation.

5. Can we have ashwagandha powder directly?

Yes, you can have ashwagandha powder directly, but it tastes a little strong, so it is better to have it with milk, ghee, or water.

6. How much ashwagandha should you take?

It is recommended that you take between 250-500 milligrams per day for at least a month. This dosage can vary depending on your individual needs.

References 

• Ashwagandha and Kidney Transplant Rejection

• An investigation into the stress-relieving and pharmacological actions of an ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract

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