Ashwagandha is one of the most important herbs in Ayurveda, which is a traditional form of alternative medicine based on Indian principles of natural healing. People have used ashwagandha for thousands of years to relieve stress, increase energy levels, and improve concentration.
People use extracts or powder from the plant’s root or leaves to treat a variety of conditions. Ashwagandha is classified as an adaptogen, a substance that helps the body cope with stress.
Based on current research, potential benefits of ashwagandha include:
- may help reduce stress and anxiety by reducing stress response mediators including cortisol.
- may improve sleep quality and reduce insomnia.
- may improve cognitive function including attention, reaction time, and memory.
- may reduce inflammation through reduction of inflammatory proteins.
- may benefit athletic performance in athletes and healthy adults, including VO2 max and strength.
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may reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, insomnia, and other mental health related issues.
- may help maintain testoterone levels during aging.
- may reduce blood sugar levels.
