Ashwagandha Pros and Cons

As an adaptogen, ashwagandha has many benefits for the body. It helps lower cortisol levels and improves insulin sensitivity. However, it has some downsides, including its potential to cause miscarriage. Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of this herb and determine whether it’s worth trying. Whether ashwagandha is right for you depends on your individual needs and situation.

Ashwagandha is an adaptogen

Adaptogens are substances that boost the immune system and help the body deal with stress. They balance the body’s stress response and enhance attention and endurance. There are more than 70 different types of adaptogens. Ashwagandha is one of these substances. It is a perennial shrub native to India, Africa, and the Middle East. It has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It has a variety of positive effects, and is worth checking out.

Ayurvedic medicine has long used ashwagandha, but recent studies have brought the herb into the mainstream as an adaptogen. Its anti-inflammatory and stress management properties are now being studied. Ashwagandha is also a natural way to increase your strength and prevent aging. Ashwagandha is also said to have the ability to improve your cognitive function. The herb is a great way to stay healthy and happy.

It reduces cortisol levels

The herb Ashwagandha has several beneficial effects on the body, including a reduction in cortisol levels. This can help people with a range of stress-related symptoms, including insomnia and hypertension. It also reduces the activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which controls the stress response. When taken regularly, ashwagandha can lead to a reduction in these symptoms.

The herb’s ability to reduce stress is attributed to its positive impact on the mitochondrial function of cells. This is the powerhouse of the cell and is responsible for producing energy. It also enhances red blood cell concentration, which transports oxygen to the body’s muscles and tissues. Ashwagandha reduces cortisol levels by helping the body combat the effects of chronic stress. Ashwagandha can help you get back to feeling confident and relaxed, which is important for good health.

Researchers have concluded that ashwagandha can reduce cortisol levels in high-stress people. Studies with human subjects have shown that the herb can lower cortisol levels by up to 30%. It takes several days to see results, and the effect on cortisol is more apparent in higher doses. As the herb is so versatile, it can be used in a variety of ways, including making green teas and smoothies.

It improves insulin sensitivity

A recent study found that Ashwagandha boosts insulin sensitivity in body cells and can reduce blood sugar levels. It is believed that elevated cortisol levels in the body cause the release of insulin, which then converts the sugar into fat. Taking ashwagandha can improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels, which will eventually lead to weight loss and a more normal body composition. In the study, the researchers found that Ashwagandha significantly increased insulin sensitivity in the participants.

Ashwagandha is a powerful antioxidant, which can help the body fight off oxidative stress. It also enhances memory and brain function. Although limited research has been conducted, Ashwagandha is commonly used in Ayurveda and can be found in health food stores throughout the US. There is limited information on Ashwagandha’s potential benefits in Western medicine, but the compound is thought to improve insulin sensitivity in diabetic patients, reduce blood sugar, and increase glucose uptake. It may also help control thyroid function.

It may cause miscarriage

Ashwagandha is a popular herbal remedy, but it has been linked to miscarriage. In addition to the risk of miscarriage, ashwagandha has been linked to early menstruation, increased stress levels, and premature delivery. Small doses of ashwagandha are safe for pregnant women, but high doses may cause miscarriage. Ashwagandha is also suspected to cause liver damage, and is not safe to take during pregnancy.

Because of the potential risks of ashwagandha, pregnant women should consult with their healthcare providers before beginning any new supplement program. Even though “mommy” blogs about ashwagandha are informative, they should not be relied upon for medical advice. Despite the lack of scientific evidence, medical experts generally recommend that expectant mothers do not take ashwagandha during pregnancy. This herb is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and therefore comes with potential risks.