7 Amazing Benefits of Ashwagandha Root for Women
Ashwagandha, also known as Indian ginseng, is an Ayurvedic herb commonly used in traditional Indian medicine. Investigations into the herb's powerful effects on the body have sparked an explosion of interest, and research has reported exciting potential for human health, specifically its effects on mental, physical, and emotional health.
Benefits of Ashwagandha Root
Ashwagandha may enhance energy, support aging, and stimulate sex drive. Here are 7 benefits women may experience with ashwagandha.
1. Promotes Graceful Aging
Stress, both metabolic and emotional, dramatically affects aging. Cortisol, the body's stress hormone, contributes to muscle loss and weakness, wrinkles, and cognitive impairment. Research has found that ashwagandha improves resistance to stress, possibly decreasing cortisol production. [1] One study of 64 individuals observed a reduction in stress and a significant decrease in cortisol levels in individuals taking ashwagandha compared with placebo.
2. Menopausal Support
Ashwagandha acts on the endocrine system by encouraging hormone balance. A study involving 51 menopausal women supplementing with ashwagandha noted a significant reduction in symptoms such as hot flashes, anxiety, and mood. [2]
3. Sexual Potency
The Kama Sutra, one of the oldest surviving texts on human sexuality, mentions ashwagandha in its literature as a potent sexual stimulant. Research indicates that the herb supports sexual health and vitality by increasing blood flow and reducing bodily tension. Women taking ashwagandha typically experience an increase in sexual desire and satisfaction.
4. Memory Support
Recent research has shown that ashwagandha reduces memory impairment in animal models. The herb may also protect the brain from the oxidative stress that leads to neurodegeneration. Relaxation, a benefit derived from the herb's stress-fighting effects, also improves long-term visual memory. [3] [4]
5. Revitalization
Another benefit many women report after taking this herb is in regards to energy levels. This anecdotal evidence is supported by scientific investigation; a recent study reported ashwagandha's benefits for improving energy while reducing stress-related disorders. [5]
6. Mood Booster
Ashwagandha is a known mood-boosting herb, and research suggests that the therapeutic plant may play a potential role in fighting mood imbalance. [6] Women battling mood swings may benefit from supplementing with ashwaghanda.
7. Fertility
Stress, illness, hormone imbalance, and nutrient deficiencies – all of these issues threaten female reproductive health and make it difficult for a woman to conceive. Research shows that ashwagandha supports thyroid function, an organ responsible for regulating hormones. [7] Also, by decreasing stress, ashwagandha may encourage a situation that is optimal for fertility. [8] More research is needed to clarify whether or not ashwagandha is effective for helping infertile females struggling to conceive.
Using Ashwagandha Root
Ashwagandha can be found in liquid and capsule form, sometimes with other herbs designed to promote female health. Always look for an organic supplement that comes from a trusted, high-quality source. I recommend Women's Hormone Balance, a blend of Ashwagandha root and other herbs, designed to help regulate the proper hormone balance to support normal energy levels, superior vitality, and a balanced mood.
Benefits of Ashwagandha for Women
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References (8)
- Chandrasekhar K1, Kapoor J, Anishetty S. A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of a high-concentration full-spectrum extract of ashwagandha root in reducing stress and anxiety in adults. Indian J Psychol Med. 2012 Jul;34(3):255-62. doi: 10.4103/0253-7176.106022.
- Modi MB1, Donga SB, Dei L. Clinical evaluation of Ashokarishta, Ashwagandha Churna and Praval Pishti in the management of menopausal syndrome. Ayu. 2012 Oct;33(4):511-6. doi: 10.4103/0974-8520.110529.
- R Archana, A Namasigayam. Antistressor effect of Withania somnifera. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. Volume 64, Issue 1, 1 January 1998, Pages 91-93.
- Nava E, Landau D, Brody S, Linder L, Schächinger H. Mental relaxation improves long-term incidental visual memory. Neurobiology of Learning and Memory. 2004 May;81(3):167-71.
- Narendra Singh, Mohit Bhalla, [...], and Marilena Gilca. An Overview on Ashwagandha: A Rasayana (Rejuvenator) of Ayurveda. African Journal of Traditional, Complementary, and Alternative Medicines. 2011; 8(5 Suppl): 208-213.
- Bhattacharya SK, Bhattacharya A, Sairam K, Ghosal S. Anxiolytic-antidepressant activity of Withania somnifera glycowithanolides: an experimental study. Phytomedicine. 2000 December;7(6):463-9.
- Panda S, Kar A. Changes in thyroid hormone concentrations after administration of ashwagandha root extract to adult male mice. Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology. 1998 September;50(9):1065-8.
- Wasser SK, Sewall G, Soules MR. Psychosocial stress as a cause of infertility. Fertility and Sterility. 1993 March;59(3):685-9.
†Results may vary. Information and statements made are for education purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician.
Dr. Edward Group, DC
FOUNDER | HEALER | ADVOCATEDr. Group, DC is a healer and alternative health advocate, and an industry leader and innovator in the field of natural health who is dedicated to helping others. He is a registered doctor of chiropractic (DC), a naturopathic practitioner (NP), and proud alum of Harvard Business School and MIT Sloan School of Management. Dr. Group, DC is the founder of Global Healing – a mission and vision he has shared through best-selling books and frequent media appearances. He aims to spread his message of positivity, hope, and wellness throughout the world.
