5 Reasons why ashwagandha is an amazing healing herb

( Natural News ) Ashwagandha ( Withania somnifera ) is often described as the king of Ayurvedic herbs, and for good reason. This medicinal herb can provide the body with a lot of benefits . Some examples include lowering blood sugar levels, improving brain function, reducing inflammation, and even preventing anxiety and depression. Many people consider it to be an adaptogen , which a substance that helps the body effectively manage stress. In Africa, the Middle East, and India – where Ayurveda is rooted – ashwagandha has been a part of traditional medicine for over 6,000 years. Nearly all parts of the herb are used: The leaves are used to bring down fevers, while the flowers are taken as a diuretic. The root is the most widely used part of the plant, thanks to its ability to relieve stress. Here are just some benefits a person can get from taking the king of Ayurvedic herbs. (h/t to Blog.PaleoHacks.com ) It soothes anxiety. A study has shown that ashwagandha has similar effects to that of anti-anxiety drugs like lorazepam — without the nasty side effects. In that study, researchers noted that the herb reduced clinical brain markers of anxiety, making it a better alternative to medication when work just keeps piling up. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. People who are stressed out feel the full effects of chronic inflammation and oxidative stress. Ashwagandha protects the cell from these two by preventing free radicals from damaging the cells. It boosts immunity and supports the nervous system. Too much stress can translate into physical symptoms, such as extreme fatigue, colds, and even the flu. Research has shown that ashwagandha increases white blood cells counts, the body’s first line of defense against pathogenic intruders. In addition, it relaxes the nervous system and […]

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