Introduction

Ashwagandha, or Indian Ginseng, is an important Ayurvedic herb. It is found in India, Africa, and the Middle East. Its literal meaning is "smell of the horse", due to the scent of its roots and its ability to provide the strength and vitality of a horse. Every part of the ashwagandha plant is known for its healing properties. Ashwagandha powder, ashwagandha capsules, and ashwagandha churna prepared from the plant's roots and leaves help in the treatment of a range of health conditions.

Ashwagandha is an adaptogen, antioxidant, antidepressant, antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory agent. Its revitalizing properties work on the immune system, the endocrine system, the reproductive system, and the neurological system.

Let's learn about the ashwagandha benefits for females and how it helps improve their overall health.

Ashwagandha Benefits for Females

Women play multiple roles as homemakers and career women in the modern world. However, everyday physical and mental stress affects their health and causes problems, such as hormonal imbalance, impaired immunity, irregular menstrual cycles, weight gain, and inflammation.

Ashwagandha benefits women by strengthening their immune system and preparing their bodies to deal with stress. Here's how.

• Ashwagandha reduces anxiety and stress

Ashwagandha is an adaptogen that improves the body's ability to handle stress and anxiety. It fights insomnia, lowers cortisol levels and brings relief from chronic stress.

• Ashwagandha regulates the menstrual cycles:

Ashwagandha reduces stress that affects the reproductive system. It improves the functioning of the adrenal glands, reduces cortisol and increases the production of blood, thereby regulating hormones and the menstrual cycle. Ashwagandha also helps relieve the symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes, anxiety, depression, and sleeplessness.

• Ashwagandha provides relief from vaginal infection:

Ashwagandha has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that resolve and fight vaginal infections.

• Ashwagandha resolves sexual dysfunction:

Ashwagandha relieves stress and anxiety and improves mood. Furthermore, it improves lubrication, increases blood flow, and enhances sexual arousal. Ashwagandha root is known to act as a stimulant that enhances arousal and resolves sexual dysfunction.

• Ashwagandha supports weight loss:

Ashwagandha provides relief from stress which sometimes can be the main cause of weight gain. It lowers cortisol levels and reduces food cravings. It helps improve your dietary habits and thus supports weight loss.

• Ashwagandha improves skin health:

The antioxidant properties of Ashwagandha fight wrinkles, fine lines, and dark spots. The compounds in Ashwagandha, known as withanolides, cleanse dirt and prevent clogged pores, and acne. It helps in the secretion of natural skin oils, generates collagen production, and thus maintains the skin's youthfulness.

What are the Side Effects of Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha, when taken in small quantities, benefits your overall health. However, it is important to consume ashwagandha powder or ashwagandha capsules only after consulting an Ayurvedic doctor.

Some ashwagandha side effects are:

• Gastrointestinal discomfort
• Drowsiness
• Sleepiness
• Diarrhoea
• Pregnant women should avoid consuming ashwagandha, as it may cause early delivery.
• People with thyroid disease should consult their doctor before consuming ashwagandha, as it may affect the thyroid.