Ashwagandha is one of the most important herbs in Ayurveda – a traditional form of alternative medicine based on Indian principles of natural healing. Ashwagandha comes from the plant Withania somnifera also known as “Indian Ginseng,” this plant provides many health benefits including:
- Stress reduction
- Lowers blood pressure
- Reduces swelling
- Improves mood and memory
- Boosts muscle strength and fertility
Can ashwagandha aid in perimenopause?
Ashwagandha is known for having some incredible benefits for women especially those experiencing perimenopausal symptoms like mood swings. A study published by NCBI in 2021, showed that intake of “Ashwagandha root extract can be a safe and effective option to relieve mild to moderate climacteric symptoms during perimenopause in women. (PubMed, 2021).”
Ashwagandha and Sleep
There are many studies on ashwagandha which is a proof of its benefits. One of the studies answers if ashwagandha can help with sleep. One of NIH studies published in 2019 stated that “Ashwagandha root extract is a natural compound with sleep-inducing potential, well tolerated and improves sleep quality and sleep onset latency in patients with insomnia at a dose of 300 mg extract twice daily.”
Ashwagandha and Diet
If you are convinced you want to give this shrub a chance, then you may add it slowly into your diet to see potential results. You could start by slowly incorporating them into your herbal teas and then slowly transition into powders and tablets. Only after you have consulted your doctor/physician.
Who should not consume ashwagandha?
- Pregnant females.
- Breastfeeding women.
- People with thyroid disorders.
- People with medical conditions must always consult their doctors before starting.
Ashwagandha should not be consumed by pregnant women as it may cause nausea, diarrhea and vomiting.
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-Written by Sushmita Majumdar
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