Ashwagandha Supplements
Ashwagandha Supplements
In the vast world of plant based supplements, few plants boast the historical significance and health benefits of ashwagandha. Rooted in ancient Ayurvedic medicine, this respected herb also known as Indian ginseng has quickly become a popular food supplement in the UK.
This herb is classified as an adaptogen, meaning it helps your body manage stress. The extracts or powder from the plant's root or leaves are used to produce ashwagandha supplements.
Many studies have been done on the health benefits of Ashwagandha. Below are some of the key benefits put forward.
1. Stress and Anxiety
One of the most celebrated benefits of Ashwagandha is its suggested ability to reduce stress and anxiety. Several studies have indicated it may help reduce cortisol levels, which is your body’s primary stress hormone. In one study in the US and noted by the highly respected National library of Medicine, participants who took 240mg of Ashwagandha a day experienced a reduction in cortisol levels compared to those who received a placebo. This adaptogenic property has made Ashwagandha a popular choice for a natural remedy for stress relief support.
2. Brain Function
Ashwagandha is known for its neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing properties. Research indicates that it can improve memory, reaction time, and the ability to perform tasks. In five clinical studies in the US results showed that taking 600mg a day of ashwagandha improved cognitive and psychomotor performance in adults. This makes it a promising supplement for those looking to boost their brain health.
3. Sleep Function
If you are looking for a for a good nights sleep ashwagandha may be beneficial. Its calming properties are said to promote relaxation and help you fall asleep more easily. In a twelve-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled study a group of males and females were given 600mg a day of ashwagandha. A significant increase in the quality of sleep was observed in the ashwagandha treatment group when compared to the placebo group.
How much to take ?
Recommendations for ashwagandha vary depending on the benefits required. Amounts of 250–1,250 mg per day have been used in studies as safe upper pending daily limits.
All studies done were highlighted in the highly respectable National Library of Medicine.