Ashwagandha herb, which comes in , exhibits varied effects.
Ashwagandha --- an herb also known as Indian Ginseng, Winter Cherry or Withania somnifera --- is a centuries-old remedy. As the ashwaganda plant flourishes in India, Ayurvedic healers prescribe it to prevent illness and promote overall health. Though companies that offer ashwagandha over the counter tout its myriad medicinal effects, consumers should be aware that the Food and Drug Administration does not regulate or endorse ashwagandha; however, some studies point to the herb's positive and negative effects.
Effects on General Health
Because ashwagandha herb is rich in iron, human studies indicate that it promotes growth in children by increasing hemoglobin levels. Similarly, the herb increases red blood cell count, which may lead to improved sexual performance in adults. According to the Memorial Slaon-Kettering Cancer Center, herbal tea made from ashwagandha promotes natural white blood cell activity, which exercises a positive effect on the immune system. As per the same source, animal studies show that ashwagandha exercises anti-stress effects, anti-anxiety effects and positive effects on immune system response. Studies conducted at Banaras Hindu University indicate the positive antioxidant effects of ashwagandha, including the promotion of superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase. As ashwagandha causes increased acetylcholine receptor activity, it may lead to increased cognitive ability and memory. Studies conducted with rats show that the herb has a positive effect on depression, acting as a mood stabilizer. Keep in mind that many tests on the neural and emotional effects of ashwagandha have been conducted on lab animals, not humans.
Effects on Medical Conditions
Perhaps most prominently, ashwagandha is known to reduce the growth of cancer cells in the breast, central nervous system, colon and lungs. The herb also assists in the prevention of neutropenia induced by chemotherapy. This natural drug may improve balance in those suffering from progressive degenerative cereberral ataxias, based on preliminary data. Ashwagandha herbs exhibit positive effects on osteoarthritis, as its anti-inflammatory qualities protect against damage to the cartilage. In rat test subjects, ashwagandha root powder decreases lipid profiles, which assists in cases of hypercholesterol. In the animal model of type two diabetes, ashwagandha increases insulin sensitivity and improves hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia.
Adverse Effects
According to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, ashwagandha herb may cause adverse effects, or even abortion, in pregnant women. In one case, ashwagandha caused thyrotoxicosis, or hyperthyroidism, when taken in capsule form for chronic fatigue; these symptoms ceased when the herb was discontinued. When taken in conjunction with barbiturates, ashwagandha herb enhances the latter's sedative effects.
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