Medical studies show that ashwagandha tea helps reduce stress and anxiety, improves sleep, and provides multiple health benefits.
Recognized for its adaptogenic properties, which help restore balance to the body and reduce stress and anxiety levels, ashwagandha is a medicinal plant used in Ayurvedic medicine in India.
Also known as bufera or Indian ginseng, this evergreen shrub is especially valued for its ability to reduce levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, an effect attributed to its active compound.
Several studies suggest that ashwagandha may also improve physical performance and strengthen the immune system.
Its effects are believed to be due to the regulation of the biological response to stress and its anti-inflammatory capacity, thanks to its active components, which include alkaloids, lactones, and steroid compounds.
Experts in natural medicine point out that the leaves, branches, and fruits of ashwagandha possess medicinal properties that promote general well-being and balance in the body. However, they emphasize that its misuse could cause adverse effects and recommend its consumption only under medical supervision.
What is Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha is a plant or shrub of African and Asian origin that, according to the Medline Plus website, “contains chemicals that can help calm the brain, reduce swelling, lower blood pressure, and alter the immune system.”
This plant helps the body adapt to stressors and restore balance. It also acts by regulating the body’s response to stress and reducing inflammation.
Medical studies in the United States, cited by National Geographic, detail that different parts of the plant can present different concentrations of bioactive compounds, such as withanolides, which are associated with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that are beneficial for the body.
Benefits of the plant
Ashwagandha is associated with reducing stress and anxiety as it lowers cortisol levels, contributing to a feeling of calm and well-being.
Its consumption improves the quality of sleep through its infusions, which can promote more restful sleep, especially in people with insomnia or nocturnal anxiety.
Another of its benefits is the increase in energy and physical and muscular performance, which benefits those seeking to improve their sports performance.
Drinking tea from this plant can strengthen the body’s defenses thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, its effects also contribute to:
- Promotes cognitive health
- Reduces stress and anxiety
- Improves sleep quality
- Regulates the biological response to stress
- Strengthens the immune system
- Supports cardiovascular health
- Promotes hormonal health
- Balances blood sugar levels
How to take it?
Its consumption is varied. According to experts, there are various options, such as infusions of its branches and leaves, natural capsules and ointments, which can help reduce allergies.
Medline Plus recommends that ashwagandha be taken for a maximum of three continuous months, as prolonged use may cause side effects or build resistance to the plant.
“Large doses of ashwagandha may cause stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting. In rare cases, liver problems, including severe liver failure and the need for a liver transplant, may occur,” the article adds.
As for the ointment, experts recommend using it for a maximum of two months.
Contraindications of ashwagandha
Medical studies emphasize that ashwagandha has contraindications that could compromise health, including:
- Pregnant women: Consumption may cause spontaneous abortions.
- Nursing mothers: Its use is not recommended due to the lack of studies on its effects on infants.
- People with recent surgery: It may slow down the central nervous system, which could interfere with anesthesia and postoperative recovery.
- Thyroid disorders: It may increase thyroid hormone levels, which poses a risk for those with hyperthyroidism.
- People with autoimmune diseases: It could cause a more active immune response, which would aggravate the symptoms of these pathologies.
- Liver disease: In some cases, it has been associated with liver damage, although the frequency with which this occurs is still unknown.
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