Ayurveda is on one of the world’s oldest holistic healing systems. It’s based on the belief that health and wellness depend on a delicate balance between the mind, body, and spirit. Its main goal is to promote good health, not fight disease. But treatments may be geared toward specific health problems.
In treating you, an Ayurvedic doctor may utilize different methods such as blood purification, massage, medical oils, herbs, and enemas or laxatives. One of the most notable herbs that are used is called Ashwaganda. In the following post from Wake Up World, they talk more about what Ashwagnda is and what health benefits it can provide:
“The Health Benefits of Ashwagandha
January 20th, 2018 By Dr. Edward Group Guest writer for Wake Up WorldWithania somnifera, better known as ashwagandha or “Indian ginseng,” has been a traditional stapleof Ayurvedic medicine for over 3,000 years. The herb has a wide range of activity that promotes physical, emotional and mental health, body rejuvenation, and longevity. It is known to inhibit anxiety and improve energy. Ashwagandha may also promote healthy fertility.[1, 2]
Ashwagandha for Energy
Long distance cycling is an endurance sport that requires aerobic fitness and energy. Many products have been developed to provide energy in a quick, easy form: gel packets, energy chews, sports drinks, and more. Generally, these products just provide extra calories, which are necessary if you’re expending energy but don’t actually support physical ability.
In 2012, the Faculty of Sports Medicine and Physiotherapy at India’s Guru Nanak Dev University conducted an eight-week study in which forty elite cyclists supplemented with ashwagandha. By the study’s conclusion, significant enhancements in both cardiovascular and respiratory endurance were reported.[3]
Perhaps even more importantly, research out of Malaysia found that when ashwagandha root extract was regularly administered to persons receiving chemotherapy, it had potential to relieve fatigue and improve their quality of life.[4]
Cognitive Benefits of Ashwagandha
In Ayurvedic medicine, one of the primary uses of ashwagandha root extract is to enhance memory and improve brain function. One of the mechanisms responsible for this effect is ashwagandha’s antioxidant action. Since oxidative stress contributes to neurodegenerative disorders, lessening oxidative damage may offer neuroprotection.
Multiple studies have been performed to evaluate the neuroprotective properties of ashwagandha root extract on rats and found that it may prevent some instances of memory impairment and oxidative stress on the brain.[5, 6]”
Ashwagnda can also be a potent stress reliever and can play a role in male fertility. For more details on this and how to best supplement with Ashwaganda, check out the rest of the post on Wake Up World:
Image courtesy of: california school of herbal studies in forestville