Ashwagandha
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Stress / Adaptogen
(Anti-stress Benefits) Animal studies in rats and mice show that taking this supplement helps the animals adapt to stressful situations. |
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Anti-cancer
Benefits Many studies done in lab settings and in mice show that this supplement can stop the spread of cancer cells. |
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Antioxidant
Benefits Research done in mice, rats and rabbits seem to show that this supplement has antioxidant properties. Researchers suggest that it may offer oxidative damage protection for our cells. More studies in humans would be required to verify this benefit. |
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Anti-inflammatory Benefits (Arthritis/Osteoarthritis/
Rheumatoid
Arthritis) Many studies done with rats and mice show that this herb has good anti-inflammatory benefits. The researchers suggest that it may be helpful in treating many inflammatory conditions. A study showed that it seemed to protect the cartilage of the joints from further damage in 50% of the patient tested. |
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Infertility
in Men A recently completed clinical study showed that taking ashwagandha seems to improve the sperm count and motility in infertile men. |
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Diabetes
(Type 2, Non-insulin dependent/NIDDM) One study done in rats shows that ashwagandha was able to lower the blood sugar levels. The researchers believe it was able to do this by making insulin more sensitive. |
| Helpful | Aphrosidiac / Enhance Libido
or Sex Drive Ashwagandha is used in India for over 3,000 years to enhance health. Research shows that ashwagandha has an aphrodisiac effect and improves sexual performance. Avoid combining this herb with alcohol, prescription sedatives. Use of this herb during pregnancy is not recommended. |
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Enhancing
Memory Because ashwagandha seems to have antioxidant properties, expert believe it may be helpful in treating memory problems, dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Research studies will need to be done to support this claim. |
Suggested Benefits and Traditional Uses
- Adaptogen (resistance to stress)
- Anticancer benefits
- Anti-stress benefits
- Antifungal effects
- Antioxidant
- Anxiety
- Aphrodisiac
- Arthritis / osteoarthritis
- Asthma
- Back pain
- Bronchitis
- Diabetes
- Dementia
- Diuretic
- Enhancing memory and mental function
- Enhancing physical performance
- Immune system stimulant
- Infertility (women and men)
- Liver disease (hepatitis)
- Pain (general)
- Parkinson's disease (PD)
- Protection of the nervous system
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Sedative
- Tuberculosis
Side Effects, Toxicity, Warnings and Interactions
Side effects are mild and uncommon when taken in the suggested dosage range.Taking higher dosage may cause the following side effects:
- stomach upset
- diarrhea
- vomiting
Pregnancy and Lactation - As there are no information available for using during pregnancy or during breastfeeding, avoid using if possible.
Interactions - In theory, this herb has a sedative effect. The sedation might be increased when combined with other herbs or prescription drugs that causes sedation. It may also boost the effect of thyroid supplements.
Experts also suspect that this herb might worsen autoimmune diseases by boosting the immune system further. Autoimmune disease includes rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and multiple sclerosis. Use with caution in this group of individuals.
Dosage & How to Take It
Dried Roots
People have
used doses of 1 to 6 grams of the roots taken daily.
Liquid Extracts
In a liquid
formulation, the typical dose used is 2 to 4 mL taken up to three times
daily.
Tea Formulation
Boil 1 to 6
grams of the roots in 250 mL of water for 15 minutes and drink three
times daily.
Related Articles and Resources
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Stress Management Tips
What are the Effects of Stress Health?
Return to Health Conditions List
