Herbal Information on Ashwagandha Root in Bulk Powder Form
The Ultimate Guide to Ashwagandha: Benefits, Uses, and Research
Introduction
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), also known as Indian ginseng or winter cherry, is a highly revered herb in Ayurvedic medicine. Known for its adaptogenic properties, Ashwagandha helps the body manage stress, boost energy levels, and improve overall well-being. This comprehensive guide delves into the benefits, uses, and scientific research behind this powerful herb.
What is Ashwagandha?
Botanical Profile
Ashwagandha is a small shrub with yellow flowers native to India and North Africa. The roots and berries of the plant are used in traditional medicine. The primary active compounds in Ashwagandha are withanolides, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, anti-stress, and antioxidant properties.
Health Benefits of Ashwagandha
Stress Reduction and Anxiety Relief
Ashwagandha is best known for its ability to reduce stress and anxiety. Studies have demonstrated that it can lower cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress. In one study, participants taking Ashwagandha reported a significant reduction in stress and anxiety levels compared to those taking a placebo.
Enhanced Cognitive Function
Research indicates that Ashwagandha can improve cognitive function, including memory, attention, and information processing speed. This makes it a valuable supplement for individuals looking to enhance their mental performance and protect against cognitive decline.
Improved Physical Performance
Ashwagandha has been shown to enhance physical performance, including strength and endurance. Athletes and physically active individuals may benefit from its ability to increase muscle mass and reduce exercise-induced muscle damage.
Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties
The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of Ashwagandha help protect against chronic diseases. These properties make it beneficial for reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, which are linked to various health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.
Scientific Research on Ashwagandha
Stress and Anxiety
A study published in the "Journal of Clinical Psychiatry" found that Ashwagandha extract significantly reduced anxiety levels in participants with generalized anxiety disorder. Another study in the "Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine" reported that Ashwagandha root extract improved stress resistance and quality of life in adults under chronic stress.
Cognitive Function
Research published in the "Journal of Dietary Supplements" showed that Ashwagandha extract improved cognitive function and psychomotor performance in healthy adults. Another study in the "Journal of Ethnopharmacology" found that Ashwagandha helped protect against neurodegenerative diseases and cognitive decline.
Physical Performance
A study in the "Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition" demonstrated that Ashwagandha supplementation increased muscle strength, size, and recovery in resistance training athletes. Another research in the "Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine" highlighted its benefits in enhancing physical endurance and reducing fatigue.
Conclusion
Ashwagandha is a potent adaptogenic herb with a wide range of health benefits. From reducing stress and anxiety to enhancing cognitive function and physical performance, Ashwagandha can significantly improve overall well-being. Incorporating this ancient herb into your daily routine can help you achieve better health and resilience against stress.
Names: Ashwagandha Root, Winter cherry, Indian ginseng
Botanical Name: Withania somnifera
Package Size: 1 pound
Form: Fine Powder - Certified Organic
Origin: India
Brand: ZNaturals
Cautions: Do not use if pregnant or nursing.
California Prop 65
About Ashwagandha Certified Organic Root
This plant family includes such well-known vegetables as tomatoes, potatoes and eggplant, along with flowers like petunias. Ashwagandha root has clusters of yellow flowers and produces red fruit the size of a berry. This plant is from the time of Ayurveda, the ancient system of Indian medicine. Recent research has also found that raw ashwagandha may support healthy levels of three naturally powerful antioxidants: superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase. The roots of Ashwagandha have an unusual aroma, they smell like a horse.
Ashwagandha plays an important role in Nitric Oxide production and is known to increase it. Nitric Oxide helps to expand your blood vessels for better regulation. This is one of the reason that Ashwagandha is traditionally used as a sex enhancer.
- Benefits Muscle Tone
- Ability to Support Health Stress Responses
- Adaptogen Properties
- Support the Nervous System
- Encourages Restful Sleep
- Supports Natural Blood Sugar Levels when used with diet and exercise.
Naturally Occurring Components
The key constituents of ashwagandha are alkaloids and a group of steroidal lactones known as withanolides.
- Alkaloids
- Isopellertierine
- Anferine
- Steroidal lactones
- Withanolides
- Withaferins
- Saponins
How to Use Bulk Herbs
Check out our How to Use Bulk Herbs page to see how to use herbs correctly. Our web page is constantly expanding, as of today we have articles on:
- How to make salves, poultice, tinctures, teas, capsules, gargles, and foot bathes.
- How to make a citrus facial splash
- Cayenne pepper: Caterpillar and aphid spray ( Natural insect repellent )
- Citrus potpourri basket.
Laboratory Analysis
Samples are retained from all shipments are thoroughly tested and compared to our extensive reference library of dried herbs and botanicals to verify authenticity. All lot samples are kept for five years and can be traced for verification.
Physical testing involves moisture, volatile oil content, heavy metals, microbiology, thin layer chromatography, and other tests specific to each herb.
Herbal Medicine
Herbal remedies have been used for thousands of years, in all cultures. In this day and age Western Bulk Herbs and Spices should be regarded as an added element to present-day healthcare, and not as a replacement. Botanical herbs ( Teas ) emphasize harmony, support, and balance.
References
"Ashwagandha for Stress and Anxiety: A Randomized Controlled Trial," Journal of Clinical Psychiatry.
"Effects of Ashwagandha on Cognitive Function," Journal of Dietary Supplements.
"Ashwagandha and Physical Performance: A Study in Resistance Training Athletes," Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition.
"Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties of Ashwagandha," Journal of Ethnopharmacology.
"Ashwagandha and Immune System Support," Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine.
http://innate-edu.com/endocrine/ancient-ally-ashwagandha/
http://www.ayurvedacollege.com/articles/students/Application-of-Ashwagandha
https://www.smart-publications.com/articles/ashwagandha-the-rejuvenating-antioxidant-that-calms-the-heart-and-mind/
Biomed Res Int. 2015. Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha Root Extract in Improving Sexual Function in Women:
Antibacterial efficacy of Withania somnifera an indigenous medicinal plant against experimental murine salmonellosis.
Phytomedicine. 2005 Mar.
