Women in the twenty-first century face enormous pressure and stress at home or work. Despite everything, the contemporary tendency of living a fast-paced, hyperconnected life harms health. Inflammation, lowered immunity, irregular menstrual periods, anxiety, and hormonal imbalance are common complaints among women.
Many people use health tips, alternative medicines, and ancient techniques to reduce stress. Fortunately, a few adaptogens in the wellness sector, such as ashwagandha, can help.
Ashwagandha is an effective and safe medicinal plant that can treat various medical conditions. It is the most widely used Ayurvedic product for combating the current stress epidemic.
What does ashwagandha do for women? According to research, ashwagandha contains stress-relieving properties such as anxiety reduction. It also decreases blood sugar and boosts muscle mass, according to research.
Below we explore ashwagandha benefits for women. If you're seeking a herbal cure that can provide various health benefits, consider incorporating ashwagandha into your regimen.
Introduction To Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha, scientifically known as Withania somnifera, is an adaptogenic plant used for thousands of years in traditional Ayurvedic medicine to help cope with stress and anxiety. It is native to India, as well as numerous regions of Africa and the Middle East. The root of the ashwagandha plant is commonly found in herbal supplements and is claimed to have various health benefits.
Ashwagandha is one of several herbs and plants known as "adaptogenic plants" that may help the body cope with stress and improve overall health. The compounds present in these plants are thought to influence the complex system known as the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which impacts how the body reacts to stress. Adaptogenic herbs can help the HPA axis, improving mood, increasing energy, and reducing the adverse effects of stress on the body.
Can women take ashwagandha? Absolutely! The herb boosts fertility, manages stress, contributes to weight loss, and balances out hormones. Next, we explore the potential benefits of ashwagandha for women.
Health Benefits Of Ashwagandha For Females
How is ashwagandha good for women? The ashwagandha uses for females may include:
Stress Management And Mental Clarity
Ashwagandha is well-known for its calming effects on both the mind and the body, as it lowers cortisol (the stress hormone) levels in the body. Studies have shown that ashwagandha supplements help lower stress, anxiety, sadness, and even sleeplessness, which are frequent problems for women today.
Ashwagandha significantly reduces women suffering from chronic stress symptoms such as severe exhaustion, sleeplessness, etc. Ashwagandha is also recommended in Ayurvedic writings for relieving tension, tiredness, and physical soreness.
According to one study(1), it aids in regulating stress mediators such as cortisol and heat shock proteins. The stress-relieving impact of ashwagandha root extract was explored in an eight-week, double-blind trial on stressed healthy individuals.
Sixty stressed-out male and female participants were randomly assigned to receive capsules of ashwagandha extract 125 mg, ashwagandha extract 300 mg, or a placebo twice daily for eight weeks.
Stress was assessed using a stress scale score at the start of the trial, another scale (Hamilton-Anxiety scale), and blood cortisol was obtained at the start and eight weeks. Additionally, sleep quality was evaluated.
With ashwagandha, stress levels and blood cortisol levels were significantly reduced. Participants receiving ashwagandha had significantly better sleep quality than those in the placebo group. The researchers concluded that ashwagandha root aqueous extract helped lower stress and anxiety.
Hormonal Balance And Menstrual Health
One of the most crucial ashwagandha benefits for women's health is its ability to improve menstrual health. Period irregularities, delayed periods, reproductive concerns, period pains, facial hair development, and physical changes in menopause are common.
Women frequently face such issues due to increasing stress. Female reproductive issues are usually attributed to hormonal imbalances, which can even lead to pregnancy concerns. In a nutshell, ashwagandha promotes menstruation. When you add ashwagandha to a glass of milk every day, it helps to keep these troubles at bay. It corrects hormonal imbalances while also supporting adrenal gland function. It even increases blood flow.
Hormonal equilibrium increases fertility and regulates the menstrual cycle. Female hormones influence everything from menstruation to mood and energy levels. When they are out of balance, we can experience mood swings, sluggishness, and depression.
Because of its favorable effect on thyroid function(2) by controlling the levels of thyroid hormones T3 and T4, ashwagandha may aid in hormone balance. Some study suggests that ashwagandha may boost thyroid gland function and enhance thyroid hormone synthesis while lowering thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels when elevated. This activity can aid in the relief of symptoms associated with hormone imbalances, such as irregular periods, mood swings, and weariness.
Ashwagandha has also been reported to alleviate the intensity of PMS symptoms such as cramping, bloating, and mood changes. It regulates hormone production in the body and balances the endocrine system.
Energy And Vitality
Next ashwagandha benefits for women is its ability to boost energy. The herb has been traditionally used to enhance vitality and energy levels.
Ashwagandha is an energizer that can revitalize all physical functions. Some people prefer it to caffeine because it does not cause jitters or insomnia and is not addictive. However, ashwagandha can also be used to soothe a hyperactive nervous system. When taken at night, it aids in releasing sleep neurotransmitters, enabling a decent night's sleep.
A 2021 study(3) analyzed the effects of ashwagandha on physical performance. Results of this meta-analysis suggested that this Ayurvedic herb improved markers of physical performance, sick as oxygen use and muscle strength, while exercising.
Cognitive Function And Focus
Yet another benefit of ashwagandha for females is its ability to support focus and cognitive function. Ashwagandha has been demonstrated to increase female brain function, such as memory, focus, and concentration. It boosts neurotransmitter production in the brain and has a protective impact on brain cells.
Early research(4) suggests that ingesting ashwagandha, particularly at night, improves cognitive performance. It can even help with moderate cognitive impairment and schizophrenia symptoms in elderly persons.
Improved cognitive functioning improves performance on cognitive tasks, attentiveness, and reaction time. Ashwagandha enhances attention span and memory while regulating bodily imbalances when taken on time.
Furthermore, as research suggests(5), it improves concentration and focus by allowing the body to use oxygen more effectively.
Immune System Support
Ashwagandha has been demonstrated to improve immunity and protect against sickness. It possesses antiviral and antibacterial qualities, which may help to decrease the intensity of colds and flu.
The herb may also have anti-cancer properties. The withaferin compound in ashwagandha causes apoptosis (programmed cell death), which helps kill cancer cells. Furthermore, it inhibits the formation of new cancer cells in various ways.
WA or Withanolide promotes damaging reactive oxygen species (ROS) production within cancer cells, which affects their function. According to research, one of the ashwagandha benefits for women is that it aids in treating breast and ovarian cancer(6). It also stops the spread of cancer to other organs.
Managing Inflammation And Skin Health
Inflammation is a natural reaction to trauma, illnesses, and poisons. In such instances, the body releases anti-inflammatory responses to restore balance.
In chronic pain, however, the body fails to release anti-inflammatory reactions, resulting in severe inflammation.
Ashwagandha is an anti-inflammatory(7) herb that has been demonstrated to lower inflammation in the body. This can be especially advantageous for ladies with arthritis, autoimmune illnesses, and skin issues.
According to research, ashwagandha contains traces of WA phytochemicals, which play an essential function in decreasing inflammation. Taking ashwagandha tea, made from its dried leaves, helps to reduce inflammation and provides immediate relief.
Ashwagandha contains antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties that protect and treat your skin from various infections, damages, and responses. It is suitable for all skin types.
Ashwagandha's bioactive components(8), which include withanolides, alkaloids, and saponins, give thorough cleaning, moisturizing, and relaxing effects on your skin.
The herb can successfully control melanin overproduction(9) in your skin, assisting in treating hyperpigmentation. When treated with ashwagandha for 14 days, researchers report a considerable reduction in melanin deposition throughout the epidermis.
Sexual Wellness And Libido
Studies have demonstrated that ashwagandha improves female sexual function by increasing libido and promoting arousal and orgasm. It controls hormone production and increases blood flow to the vaginal area.
Ashwagandha root extract has also been demonstrated to improve male and female sexual function by enhancing sexual arousal and decreasing symptoms of sexual dysfunction.
How to Take Ashwagandha
Add raw ashwagandha or ashwagandha powder directly to your cuisine to be more creative. The powder can be mixed with nut butter, smoothies, granola, and overnight oats. Ashwagandha benefits for women can be obtained by drinking a tasty ashwagandha latte with almond milk and cinnamon.
Although there is no set dosage for ashwagandha, a preferred daily intake for root powder might range between 1,000 mg and 6,000 mg. The extract is recommended to be taken between 500 mg and 1,500 mg daily.
Consultation And Precautions
If you have diabetes, blood disorders, lupus, ulcers, rheumatoid arthritis, or multiple sclerosis, you should avoid using the herb. The use of ashwagandha may hamper thyroid testing. Discontinue the use of ashwagandha two weeks before surgery.
Although ashwagandha has no adverse side effects and is typically safe to use in various doses, ingesting too much ashwagandha may induce stomach ache, diarrhea, and vomiting. It may also result in headaches and drowsiness.
Sticking to your doctor's recommended dosage is best, as exceeding it may result in digestive side effects.
FAQS About Ashwagandha Benefits For Women
When Should Women Take Ashwagandha?
Most women take ashwagandha as a capsule or powder, which they can take at any time of day. Consider incorporating it into your evening regimen to support appropriate sleep habits. Alternatively, taking it in the morning works better for your schedule.
Are There Any Potential Side Effects Or Interactions Associated With Ashwagandha For Women?
Higher doses might cause diarrhea, stomach distress, vomiting, and, in rare cases, liver damage. It is always better to contact your doctor before starting any new supplements, especially if you are pregnant, because it may raise your chances of miscarriage.
Can Ashwagandha Change Your Period?
Ashwagandha supplements help balance sensitive reproductive hormones. The primary cause of irregular or delayed menstruation is hormonal imbalance. Ashwagandha can help with period problems by reducing stress and anxiety while establishing a healthy hormonal balance.
Key Takeaways
Overall, ashwagandha is a potent plant with numerous health benefits for women. It is safe and effective and can be used as a supplement or part of a healthy diet. Ashwagandha benefits for women include increased fertility, hormone management, increased energy and vitality, and immune support.
Remember to consult your doctor or gynecologist to determine the proper dosage and ensure it is safe. By including ashwagandha in your daily routine, you can get numerous advantages while improving your overall health and well-being.
References
- Adaptogenic and Anxiolytic Effects of Ashwagandha Root Extract in Healthy Adults: A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled Clinical Study, (1)https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6979308/
- Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha Root Extract in Subclinical Hypothyroid Patients: A Double-Blind, Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial, (2)https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28829155/
- Effects of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) on Physical Performance: Systematic Review and Bayesian Meta-Analysis, (3)https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8006238/
- Effect of standardized aqueous extract of Withania somnifera on tests of cognitive and psychomotor performance in healthy human participants, (4)https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24497737/
- Efficacy ofAshwagandha (Withania somnifera [L.] Dunal) in improving cardiorespiratory endurance in healthy athletic adults, (5)https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4687242/
- Withania somnifera: from prevention to treatment of cancer, (6)https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4899165/
- Tackling Chronic Inflammation with Withanolide Phytochemicals—A Withaferin A Perspective, (7)https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7696210/
- A Decade of Molecular Understanding of Withanolide Biosynthesis andIn vitro Studies inWithania somnifera (L.) Dunal: Prospects and Perspectives for Pathway Engineering, (8)https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4661287/
- Inhibitors of Intracellular Signaling Pathways that Lead to Stimulated Epidermal Pigmentation: Perspective of Anti-Pigmenting Agents, (9)https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4057732/
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