You’d be forgiven for having never heard of ashwagandha. Although this adaptogenic herb has been used for millennia in Ayurvedic medicine, it’s only just started making waves in the western world.
Also known as ‘Indian Ginseng’, ashwagandha boasts a whole load of psychological and physical health benefits, from improved sleep to more energy. But what is less known is ashwagandha’s potential to boost women’s health.
Whether you’re struggling with fertility or suffering from the symptoms of the menopause, this superfood may well hold the key.
1. Menopausal support
The menopause can be a difficult time for women. While hot flashes, anxiety, depression and forgetfulness might be a pain, the uncomfortable symptoms of Perimenopause can be significantly improved with the help of natural supplements like ashwagandha. Thanks to its hormone balancing effect, ashwagandha is a useful herb for those women who suffer from:
- Insomnia
- Hot flashes
- Anxiety
- Forgetfulness
- Mood swings and irritability
Menopause is a time of high stress, with your body undergoing a whole range of hormonal changes. But by working alongside the adrenal glands and deploying antioxidants, ashwagandha helps to calm hot flashes, reduce fatigue and boost energy levels.
In one study involving 51 women, researchers found that the herb had a significant impact in reducing menopausal symptoms. By promoting hormonal balance, ashwagandha was able to support the body through the stresses of Perimenopause.
2. Increased fertility
Ashwagandha has been used for hundreds of years as a natural fertility aid. By dealing with the common underlying causes of infertility, including nutrient deficiencies, hormone imbalance and stress, ashwagandha can potentially support a healthy reproductive system.
While research on human subjects is limited, studies have pointed towards the herb’s ability to support thyroid function – one of the organs responsible for regulating hormones. When considered alongside ashwagandha’s proven ability to reduce stress – a well-known threat to fertility – ashwagandha should certainly be on the list of optimal supplements for those trying to conceive.
3. Anti-aging properties
When levels of the stress hormone cortisol skyrocket, it takes a toll on the whole body. Whether you’ve noticed the appearance of wrinkles or are feeling more tired than usual, high cortisol levels may well be partly to blame.
So what can you do about it? Well, taking an adaptogenic herb like ashwagandha certainly helps. Research shows that ashwagandha improves resistance to stress by decreasing the production of cortisol.
On top of this, one cell study found that the herb may significantly increase telomerase activity, thereby protecting against telomere loss and potentially delaying aging.
Superfood World is proud to offer a certified organic ashwagandha powder for sale. Give it a try and see if you can feel the difference.
Find out more about ashwagandha ...
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The Holistic Health Benefits of Ashwagandha