Recognized for its adaptogenic properties, which contribute to restore the balance of the organism and reduce stress and anxiety levels, Ashwagandha is a medicinal plant used in Ayurvedic medicine in India.
Also known as Bufera or Indio Ginseng, this perennial leaf bush is especially valued for its ability to reduce cortisol levels, stress hormone, an effect attributed to its active compound.
Several studies suggest that Ashwagandha can also improve physical performance and strengthen the immune system.
It is believed that its effects are due to the regulation of the biological response to stress and its anti -inflammatory capacity, thanks to its active components, including alkaloids, lactones and steroid compounds.
Natural medicine experts highlight that the leaves, branches and fruits of Ashwagandha have medicinal properties that favor the general welfare and the balance of the organism. However, they emphasize that their misuse could generate adverse effects and recommend their consumption only under medical supervision.
What is Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha is a plant or shrub of African and Asian origin that, according to the Medline Plus portal, “contains chemical substances that can help calm the brain, reduce swelling, reduce blood pressure and alter the immune system.”
This plant helps the body to adapt to stressful factors and to restore balance. In addition, it acts by regulating the body’s response to stress and reducing inflammation.
Medical studies in the United States, cited by National GeographicThey detail that the different parts of the plant can present different concentrations of bioactive compounds, such as Withanolides, which are associated with antioxidant and anti -inflammatory effects beneficial for the body.
Plant benefits
Ashwagandha is associated with stress reduction and anxiety, since it decreases cortisol levels, which contributes to a sense of calm and well -being.
Its consumption improves the quality of sleep through its infusions, which can favor a more repairing break, especially in people with insomnia or night anxiety.
Another of its benefits is the increase in energy and physical and muscular performance, which favors those who seek to improve their sports performance.
Taking tea of this plant can strengthen the organism’s defenses thanks to its antioxidant and anti -inflammatory properties, its effects also contribute to:
- Favors cognitive health
- Reduces stress and anxiety
- Improve sleep quality
- Regulates the biological response to stress
- Strengthens the immune system
- Support cardiovascular health
- Favors hormonal health
- Balance blood sugar levels
How to take it?
Its consumption is varied. According to experts, there are various options, such as infusions of its branches and leaves, capsules of natural origin and ointments, which can help reduce allergies.
Medline Plus recommends that Ashwagandha is consumed for a maximum of three continuous months, since its prolonged use could cause side effects or generate plant resistance.
“Large doses of Ashwagandha can cause stomach, diarrhea and vomiting discomfort. Rarely, liver problems, such as severe liver failure and the need for a liver transplant, ”adds the article.
As for the ointment, experts recommend using it for a maximum of two months.
Ashwagandha contraindications
Medical studies emphasize that Ashwagandha has contraindications that could compromise health, including:
- Pregnant women: their consumption could cause spontaneous abortions.
- Mothers in breastfeeding period: its use is not recommended due to lack of studies on their infants.
- People with recent surgeries: can slow down the central nervous system, which could interfere with anesthesia and postoperative recovery.
- Thyroid disorders: thyroid hormone levels could increase, which represents a risk for those who suffer from hyperthyroidism.
- People with autoimmune diseases: it could cause a more active immune response, which would aggravate the symptoms of these pathologies.
- Hepatic diseases: In some cases, it has been associated with liver damage, although the frequency with which it occurs is still unknown.