In India many years ago, a plant called ashwagandha was famous for its role in traditional medical treatment and the preparation of medicines and dietary supplements, what is ashwagandha, what are its benefits, what are its harms, and how to use it? Follow us in this article to learn about that and more.

What is Ashwagandha? 

Ashwagandha herb is a plant that grows in Asia and Africa, and is characterized by its role in the preparation of dietary supplements and medicines, and consists of a group of chemical compounds, some of which act as antioxidants such as phytanolides and alkaloids, and Ashwagandha herb is available in several forms, including capsules, powders, teas and liquid drinks made from its leaves.

What are the benefits of ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha has many benefits for the health of the body, the most important of which are:

• • Maintaining a healthy heart: Ashwagandha regulates the level of cholesterol in the blood and prevents the increase of bad cholesterol, thus protecting the heart and blood vessels from clogged arteries and high blood pressure.
  • Lowers blood sugar level: Ashwagandha helps regulate blood sugar levels in diabetics and non-diabetics by increasing the sensitivity and responsiveness of cells to insulin.
  • Stress and anxiety management: Ashwagandha reduces the level of cortisol, the hormone responsible for stress and anxiety, making it a good choice for those suffering from chronic stress and anxiety.
  • Treatment of depression: Ashwagandha plays a role in improving mood and overcoming some psychological issues such as depression.
  • Strengthen the immune system: Ashwagandha can boost the body’s immunity and increase its ability to fight infections.

• Protect against cancers.

• Benefits of Ashwagandha for Colon: Medically, Ashwagandha is used to treat IBS and its associated symptoms such as constipation and abdominal cramps, reduce intestinal inflammation, and increase beneficial bacteria in the intestines that keep the digestive system healthy.
• Ashwagandha for men: Ashwagandha significantly enhances male fertility and improves sperm health by raising testosterone levels.
• Ashwagandha benefits for women: Ashwagandha has great benefits for women, including increasing fertility and increasing the chances of pregnancy, as well as helping to relieve menstrual pain and uterine cramps. 

After learning about some of the most important benefits of ashwagandha, are there any potential harms of taking it?

What are the possible side effects of ashwagandha?

Despite being a safe medicinal extract, there are some possible side effects of ashwagandha, including the following:

• • Gastrointestinal upset: Ashwagandha may cause some gastrointestinal discomfort, such as vomiting and nausea.
  • Dehydration: When you take ashwagandha, you should drink plenty of water daily, at least 5 liters, to ensure that you do not become dehydrated as a side effect of ashwagandha.
  • Mild drowsiness and dizziness: This side effect is a common symptom of ashwagandha, and the person usually experiences temporary dizziness that goes away after a short period of time.
  • Ashwagandha and diabetes: As we know that ashwagandha lowers the blood sugar level, which can combine with medications to significantly lower blood sugar and cause a hypoglycemic coma.
  • Low blood pressure: This makes taking it without consulting a doctor dangerous for patients with high blood pressure.
  • Some psychiatric disorders such as hallucinations.

• Increased thyroid activity.

After learning about the benefits and harms of ashwagandha, what is the best way to use it to get the most out of it?

How to use ashwagandha

Ashwagandha supplements are widely available, and the recommended dosage ranges between 300-1000 mg per day, and can be obtained in several forms, including:

• Capsules: The most common form.
• Powders: Ashwagandha powder is available and can be added to juices or water.
• Ashwagandha tea: Ashwagandha leaves are boiled in water for 10 minutes and then drunk.
• Liquid ashwagandha extracts.

When is the best time to take ashwagandha pills?

The right time to take ashwagandha pills varies according to your personal need, and some of the best times are:

• In the morning: Taking ashwagandha pills in the morning helps promote focus and attention, improve digestive health, and treat digestive issues.
• Before bedtime: Ashwagandha before bedtime helps to achieve deep sleep and complete relaxation, in addition to reducing stress and anxiety.
• Immediately after meals: Taking a daily serving of ashwagandha after meals helps improve absorption. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Ashwagandha

How do you use ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha supplements are widely available and can be obtained in several forms, including capsules, which is the most common form.

Is ashwagandha dangerous?

No, it is a safe medical extract. 

When is the best time to take an ashwagandha supplement?

It is best to take it right after meals: Taking your daily serving of ashwagandha after meals helps to optimize absorption. 

How much is the daily dose of ashwagandha?

The recommended dosage is between 300-1000 mg per day.

What are the benefits of ashwagandha for women?

 Ashwagandha has great benefits for women, including increasing fertility and increasing the chances of pregnancy, as well as helping to relieve menstrual pain and uterine cramps. 

Does Ashwagandha increase testosterone?

 Ashwagandha significantly enhances male fertility and improves sperm health by raising testosterone levels.

Does Ashwagandha regulate hormones?

Yes, significantly, by lowering cortisol levels, regulating insulin sensitivity and raising its level in the blood.

Is Ashwagandha addictive?

No, it has not yet been proven to be addictive.