Ashwagandha, or Indian ginseng, is a medicinal herb with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and stress-reducing properties. It may also have antimicrobial effects and stimulate the libido. However, it can cause side effects such as thyrotoxicosis and gastrointestinal symptoms.
Ashwagandha, or Indian ginseng, is a shrub in the nightshade family that is believed to have many beneficial medicinal uses. Purported beneficial effects of ashwagandha include stress reduction, swelling reduction, blood pressure reduction, and immune system support. Also known by its scientific name, Withania somnifera, the herb contains alkaloids, steroids, and antioxidants, and is used to treat a variety of medical conditions, including arthritis, insomnia, asthma, bronchitis, fibromyalgia, and even more serious conditions such as sclerosis. multiplex, cancer and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Most of the effects of ashwagandha are positive or at least benign, but the herb can also cause unwanted side effects in some users, primarily thyrotoxicosis, a condition that can cause symptoms similar to hyperthyroidism.
Some studies conducted on mice show that the effects of ashwagandha may include antimicrobial properties. The herb successfully cured salmonella infections in mice when administered in solution. Another study in mice showed that ashwagandha has potentially positive results in treating Aspergillus fumigatus, a fungus that can cause a condition called aspergillosis in people whose immune systems have been compromised.
Ashwagandha also seems to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. As an anti-inflammatory, the herb is apparently effective in treating inflammation. It also decreases pain associated with swelling, such as pain caused by swollen joints in people with arthritis. As an antioxidant, ashwaghanda may be effective in reducing the risk of heart disease.
Other beneficial effects of ashwagandha include stress reduction and mental stimulation. The herb is believed to be an adaptogen, a substance that helps the human body cope with stress. Many people who use the herb as a general tonic report feelings of general well-being and calm, as well as increased physical energy and clarity of thought. However, further study is needed to verify the existence of adaptogens.
Ashwagandha’s effects also appear to be stimulating to the libido. It is sometimes used to treat infertility in both men and women, as well as male impotence. The herb may also be effective in treating menstrual cramps and other gynecological conditions.
Although side effects from ashwagandha are rare, some people who take the herb may develop them. Some ashwagandha users may suffer from increased sleepiness and fatigue. The herb in its powdered form is somewhat difficult for the human body to digest, so other side effects can include gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, and aggravation of any pre-existing ulcers. One of the more serious side effects of ashwagandha is caused by the herb’s tendency to stimulate the thyroid gland, which can lead to high levels of thyroid hormones in the bloodstream. This condition is known as thyrotoxicosis and can cause dramatic weight loss, depression, and emotional instability.
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