In India, there is a medical system that can promote wellness. This is called Ayurvedic medicine or Ayurveda that originated roughly 3,000 years ago. Ayurvedic medicine utilizes herbal compounds to promote health. Speaking or herbal compounds, perhaps one of the most powerful herbs in Ayurvedic medicine is ashwagandha.
Ashwagandha is also called Indian ginseng. In Sanskrit, ashwagandha means “odor of horse” because its odor seems to be like of a horse when sweating. Ashwagandha is actually a shrub with yellow flowers, oval leaves and a red fruit that is like the size of a raisin. This herb grows in India, Middle East, North Africa and other dry regions.
Here are common questions about ashwagandha:
Why take ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha is now widespread because of research conducted relating to wellness and healing. According to research, this herb can help improve different health issues. Ashwagandha contains medicinal chemicals like withanolides, choline, alkaloids, fatty acids and amino acids. It is considered an adaptogen, which is a substance that controls the body’s response to stress. It can help the body cope with the changing environment.
Indian ginseng help boost the immune system and alleviate stress and anxiety levels. It can also enhance cognitive functions (memory and concentration) and reduce brain degeneration. It doesn’t end there because it is known to treat several types of cancer and diabetes. It is also an effective anti-inflammatory agent and helps in lowering cholesterol. The list is long.
How to identify ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha can be bought either fresh, dried or in powder form. If it is powdered form, it usually looks light or medium brown. The powder is fine and soft. As mentioned earlier, it smells like a horse and the taste is bitter. If you are familiar with these, you will have an easy time recognizing this ginseng.
What is KSM-66 ashwagandha?
KSM-66 is extracted from the roots of ashwagandha. Many people consider this extract because it is ashwagandha’s low toxicity form. It has 5% glycowithanolide concentration and a small amount of withaferin A concentration. When extracting, the process does not include alcohol and other synthetic solves. This is the reason why it is safe and effective. About the taste and smell, this extract is often less disturbing.
How to add ashwagandha to your diet?
You are what you eat as they say. Adding ashwagandha to your diet can supplement the body with nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. If you have ashwagandha powder, you can mix it with honey or ghee. You can also ingest capsules if you like. Read the dosage before taking.
Before taking, it is imperative that you consult your physician first as a precaution. Ashwagandha should not be consumed more than the recommended dosage. If consumed more than the recommended dosage, you will likely suffer diarrhea and nausea. For pregnant women, ashwagandha is not recommended. If you are taking any other medication, be cautious because it might have a bad reaction with ashwagandha.
There is nothing wrong if you seek for further healing. Whether it is Oriental or Western medicine, the important thing is you are healing. There are plenty of herbs and medicinal plants that you can consider aside from ginseng.
