Ashwagandha has always been valued in Ayurveda and other traditional medical treatments. As the name suggests, it carries a strong smell like a horse, due to which it got its name, Ashwa means horse and gandha mean smell. As Ashwagandha has the quality to provide strength, it is also considered equivalent to impart strength like a horse. Withania somnifera, commonly known as Ashwagandha, is a plant from the nightshade family known as Indian ginseng or winter cherry. It is a tiny shrub with small pale green flowers, simple leaves and red berries. 

 

Ashwagandha is gaining popularity nowadays again. Let’s find out what the reasons are for the same.

 

Ashwagandha is ancient Ayurvedic medicine.

 

It is one of the most important herbs in Ayurveda based on the principles of natural healing. It has also been used for so many years to relieve stress, increase energy level and stamina and improve concentration. Its botanical name is Withania somnifera, whose extracts or powder from the plant’s roots or leaves treat various conditions. Persistent inflammation is one of the most prevalent causes of diseases in day-to-day lives, and it’s surprising to know that Ashwagandha cures inflammation. It’s been found to reduce a marker of inflammation called C-reactive protein by a good percentage. 

 

The Capacity to Reduce Blood Sugar Level

 

The studies have proven that Ashwagandha has increased insulin secretion and improved insulin sensitivity in muscle cells. Ashwagandha has been shown to lower blood sugar levels too. It can reduce the blood sugar level in healthy and diabetic people and has proven to lower the fasting blood sugar level in a good ratio if taken consecutively for a few weeks.

 

Can reduce stress levels

 

Adrenal glands release one of the hormones known as Cortisol in response to the stress level generated and when blood sugar level gets too high. Studies have shown that Ashwagandha may help reduce the cortisol level, which sometimes gets elevated, resulting in high blood sugar levels and increased fat storage in the stomach. Studies have also revealed that those who started taking Ashwagandha had significantly observed reductions in Cortisol. It has always been known to improve memory in Ayurveda, and human experiments have found it to improve mental performance.