Ashwagandha is an herb that has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine in India. Mark Stengler writes in his book "The Natural Physician's Healing Therapies" that ashwagandha is typically used by herbalists to treat chronic fatigue, impotence and memory. Ashwagandha is also called the "Indian ginseng." It may help people who are always on the go, or tend towards stress, without burning them out. As an andaptogenic herb, it may help with weight loss, the book says. However, the Food and Drug Administration has not evaluated ashwagandha for its effectiveness as related to these claims, and the FDA suggests pregnant women don't use any herb without consulting a doctor.
Benefits
Ashwaganda's proponents say it can help reduce stress and build a weakened immune system. This may help people who want to lose weight but experience consistent fatigue or are often ill. The herb can also balance inflammation, which may be common in overweight people. Stengler claims it works to tone the nervous system and bring it to a state of balance. It also contains antioxidants, which help reduce free radicals with in the body. Ashwagandha is iron-rich and can help build red blood cells and increase blood circulation, Stengler says.
Some Weight-Loss Benefits
Gary Singh writes in his book "How to Boost Your Immune System Naturally" that ashwagandha may increase virility and vitality, which are helpful for an exercise regime when wanting to lose weight. It has been used to build muscle mass and increase testosterone levels in men. Because stress depletes the body of nutrients, ashwagandha helps keep the immune system in balance when exerting a lot of energy, Singh says.
Stress-Related Weight Gain
Brenda Watson and Leonard Smith write in their book "The Fiber35 Diet: Nature's Weight Loss Secret" that ashwaghandha may help for stress-related weight gain. Because it's an adaptogenic herb, it helps support the adrenal glands and cortisol production. Watson and Smith suggest using a potent, standardized extract of ashwaganda root, along with the herbs eleuthero root and rholiola rosea, which are also adaptogens.
Dosage and Side Effects
Stengler writes that the standard adult dosage to take of ashwaghanda is 1,000mg to 3,000mg of the root. You can also take 250mg to 500mg of a tinctured extract. Ashwaghanda is non-stimulating and is said to have few side effects. Taking high dosages of the herb may cause stomach upset. Never take an herb to solely treat a medical condition. Consult your doctor before adding herbal supplements to your diet.
References
- "The Natural Physician's Healing Therapies"; Mark Stengler; 2010
- "How to Boost Your Immune System Naturally"; Gary Singh; 2008
- "The Fiber35 Diet: Nature's Weight Loss Secret"; Brenda Watson, Leonard Smith; 2008
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