Ashwangandha is primarily used in managing stress and anxiety, and enhancing cognitive function. It belongs to the class of natural herbal remedies widely recognised in traditional Ayurvedic medicine.
Other uses of Ashwangandha include alleviating symptoms of arthritis and other inflammatory conditions, improving male fertility by enhancing semen quality and sperm count, helping lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes, supporting heart health by reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and boosting immune function.
Stomach upset
Diarrhoea
Vomiting
Rare cases of liver toxicity
Ashwangandha is an Ayurvedic adaptogenic medicine.
It primarily acts as an adaptogen, helping the body manage stress by modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and reducing cortisol levels. It also has antioxidant properties, protecting cells from oxidative damage. Additionally, ashwagandha influences neurotransmitter systems, including GABAergic and serotonergic pathways, which can contribute to its calming and anti-anxiety effects.
Doctor of Medicine
BMS, FMC, MD Resident
Ashwangandha comes in an array of forms for use. It can be taken orally as capsules, tablets, and powders.
It is also available in a liquid extract form, Arishtas (alcoholic liquids) and Jam and Ghee-based liquids that are consumed orally.
Ashwangandha is primarily recommended for adults.
However, it could be given to children under the strict guidance of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner.
This herb should not be used by individuals who have a known allergy to plants belonging to the Solanaceae family, which includes tomatoes, potatoes, and eggplants.
Additionally, people with severe liver or kidney disease should avoid the use of Ashwagandha.
Ashwangandha may interact with thyroid medications (such as levothyroxine and liothyronine), immunosuppressants (such as cyclosporine and tacrolimus), sedatives (like benzodiazepines and barbiturates), antihypertensive medicines (such as losartan and valsartan), and diabetes medications (metformin, glipizide).
Therefore, it is critical to consult your doctor before starting any new medications while taking Ashwangandha.
In case of an overdose of Ashwangandha, symptoms like upset stomach, diarrhoea or vomiting may occur. If you observe these or any other unusual symptoms, inform your doctor immediately.
If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose. In such cases, you should continue with your regular schedule.
Most side effects are temporary and generally resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.
If you experience an upset stomach, try taking the medicine with food.
Drinking plenty of water can help to alleviate symptoms such as diarrhoea or vomiting.
Ashwangandha might cause drowsiness in some individuals. Therefore, it is advisable to evaluate how you respond to the medicine before driving or operating heavy machinery.
It is advised to consult your doctor before using this herb during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Caution is advised when using Ashwangandha in people with autoimmune diseases, as it might cause the immune system to become more active, potentially exacerbating symptoms of autoimmune diseases.the symptoms
Additionally, people with thyroid disorders should be cautious as Ashwangandha might increase thyroid hormone levels.
To manage stress and anxiety, consider adding relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga or deep breathing exercises to your daily routine.
Regular light physical activity can contribute to overall wellness and help reduce inflammation.
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains can support health and help manage various conditions that Ashwangandha is used for, including diabetes and cardiovascular health.
Aim for consistent sleep patterns to help regulate stress hormones and improve cognitive function.
Frequently asked questions
Ashwangandha is renowned for its adaptogenic properties, which means it helps the body to effectively manage stress. It reduces cortisol levels, a stress hormone, leading to relaxation. Clinical studies have confirmed its efficacy in reducing anxiety.
Yes, Ashwangandha can help enhance memory, attention, and reaction time. It possesses neuroprotective properties that may be beneficial in neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.
Yes, research has shown that Ashwangandha improves semen quality and sperm count in infertile men by enhancing testosterone levels and sexual function.
Ashwangandha exhibits hypoglycaemic effects that may help lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes, as well as improve insulin sensitivity.
Yes, Ashwangandha plays a role in supporting heart health by reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It also shows cardioprotective effects.
Yes, Ashwangandha has immunomodulatory properties, which enhance the body's defence against infections by increasing white blood cell count and antibody production.
Ashwangandha possesses a range of medicinal properties such as anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antistress, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and rejuvenating properties due to its active constituents including withanolides, sitoindosides and various alkaloids.
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