Ashwagandha is a potent healer and a true adaptogen. Adaptogens are a select group of herbs that support the body's natural ability to deal with stress because of their unique propensity to adapt their function according to the specific needs of the body. Also categorized as a Rasayana in Ayurveda, which means Ashwagandha is a restorative herb that lengthens the lifespan due to its ability to strengthen and revitalize tissues in the body.
This is a highly revered and time-tested herb in Ayurveda that has been used for thousands of years to support many conditions. Here is a list of some of them:
A stellar remedy to relieve stress and chronic anxiety
Decrease inflammation and blood sugar levels
Improve cardiovascular functions
A sexual and stamina tonic
Resolve insomnia issues as it reestablishes long-term sleep rhythms
Improve brain function and memory
Anti-cancer properties
Again, this is just some of the ways Ashwagandha restores health and longevity. It is a powerhouse herb with a myriad of healing properties!
My spotlight on this herb today is due to recent research that is showing ASHWAGANDHA CONTAINS NATURAL COMPOUNDS THAT CAN HELP PREVENT COVID-19. There are currently clinical trials for 4 Ayurvedic medicines involving Ashwagandha being carried out by a group of scientists and researchers.
I am always so pleased when the modern world discovers that this ancient science called Ayurveda truly carries with it the wisdom the world needs to heal itself - today. But I want to point out that with any food or herb, there is NO ONE SIZE FITS ALL in medicine. It really comes down to how each individual is constituted and what imbalances they are facing.
If you want to consider adding Ashwagandha to your regime, I highly recommend checking in with an Ayurvedic practitioner to make sure the amount you are taking and how you are taking it is balancing for you. Due to it’s pungent, heating nature, those with high pitta and ama (toxins) need to be cautious along with those suffering from severe congestion, lymph congestion, and any cold or flu.
Ashwagandha is the best herb for nourishing Vata and is used in all Vata disorders. For maximum effect, it is taken with milk, ghee, dairy/nut milk, or honey.
Keep in mind that no one food, herb, or lifestyle habit is the key to health. True wellbeing requires a dynamic approach where each component is like a cog in a system doing it's part, supporting the other parts to reach the desired goal as a united team. We are complex beings living complex lives and therefore require a multi-faceted plan to stay balanced.
Ashwagandha continues to confirm that it is a truly powerful herb for many health conditions. Along with the appropriate diet and lifestyle, ashwagandha could be a potent ally in finding true health and wellbeing.
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