Ayurvedic medicine is the oldest holistic medicine globally that was developed in India more than 3000 years ago. As per Ayurveda, health depends on the proper balance of mind, body, and soul. The main purpose is to promote good health and fight disease. However, that does not mean there are no treatments for specific health diseases. One of the ingredients that are a rising star in managing mind and body is Ashwagandha powder. Read below to know more about it and the ashwagandha benefits. Also read Ashwagandha - The Ayurvedic Immunity Drink

What is Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha is scientifically known as Withania Somnifera and is an ingredient that has been used in Ayurveda for a long time. The ashwagandha powder has been used as a medicine to increase concentration, relieve stress, and improve stamina. Ashwagandha in Sanskrit means horse scent or smell of the horse and refers to the potent strength of the horse. The plant has yellow flowers and is a small shrub predominantly found in India and Southeast Asia. The roots or leaves from the plants are extracted, and the ashwagandha powder is made to treat various conditions. 

Modern medicine has accepted the Ashwagandha powder as beneficial after extensive research. The ashwagandha benefits are seen as a star in managing stress, but its benefits extend beyond that too. The ashwagandha powder is one of the staples in Ayurveda and is also known as Indian Ginseng or Indian winter cherry. The ashwagandha powder is known for its great healing effects, described in the following sections. 

Interesting Facts About Ashwagandha Powder

Before you get to know the ashwagandha benefits, here are some interesting facts about ashwagandha powder.

• Though the leaves and the roots of this plant are used to make ashwagandha powder, the entire shrub is useful. The Ashwagandha Rishta uses are well documented. 
• The ashwagandha powder is considered a Rasayana and can increase a person's lifespan. Modern-day medicine classifies it as an adaptogen, which gives the body power to adapt to stress and has therapeutic and rejuvenation properties. 
• An Ayurvedic scholar called Charaka quoted that the ashwagandha powder benefits are that, those who use it obtain the strength of a horse, have a sharp intellect and memory, and live longer.
• In Ayurveda, the ashwagandha powder is considered a Bahlya, increasing strength and Vajikara, which boosts sexual functioning. Thus ashwagandha benefits for men are immense.

Health Benefits of Ashwagandha Powder

Traditionally, Ashwagandha powder made from the plant's root has been used to treat various health issues. The fruits, leaves, and even seeds have been used to treat several conditions. Additionally, it is mixed with other herbs, and Ashwagandha Rishta uses have been more beneficial for people. Here are some of the scientifically proven ashwagandha benefits. 

• Boosts Muscle Strength

As per research conducted on Aswagandha, consuming it can increase muscle size and muscle strength. So the ashwagandha benefit for men is that if the ashwagandha powder is consumed as a supplement, it can improve athletic performance. Research shows that men and women who took it saw increased strength, oxygen levels, and physical performance during exercise. That is because one of the ashwagandha benefits is that it helps increase oxygen consumption and can be used during strenuous activity. Additionally, among the ashwagandha benefits for men, those who consumed it every day and did resistance training saw a significant gain in muscle size and strength in chests and arms. It was also seen that there was less muscle damage post-workout.  

• Reduces Inflammation

Stress, trauma, and lifestyle lead to inflammation in the body as it is the natural response to it. Under normal conditions, the body produces an anti-inflammatory property as a response to inflammation due to toxins, trauma, or infections. However, when it becomes chronic, the body is unable to have a regulated reaction because of which problems occur. One of the Ashwagandha Rishta uses is that it can regulate inflammation. The ashwagandha powder benefits are that it can relieve inflammation and reduce the chances of chronic illnesses like diabetes, arthritis, etc. Ashwagandha benefits for men are seen in those who are prone to prostate issues. 

• Boosts Heart Health

Ashwagandha powder benefits are many and among them is that it can reduce high cholesterol levels. When the bad cholesterol levels are in check, it can prevent heart diseases and issues like chest pain. Adding ashwagandha powder to your diet improves heart health. Studies among men and women have shown that one of the Ashwagandhaharistha increases the VO2 max levels, which is the optimal amount of oxygen you take when exercising. So among the ashwagandha benefits for men, it helps to keep the heart healthy. 

• It is a Reliable Treatment for Asthma

Asthma is a common respiratory disorder that millions of people worldwide suffer from. It is a condition where there is shortness of breath, sneezing, coughing, and chest congestion. The main factors that trigger this condition are pollution, pollen, dust, and anxiety. Ayurveda has many cures for asthma, and ashwagandha powder is one of the popular herbs used as a natural cure. Apart from the ashwagandha benefits of reducing asthma, it also helps to reduce stress which in turn helps in controlling this respiratory disorder. 

• Reduces Blood Sugar

Many studies have found that regularly using ashwagandha powder has helped reduce blood sugar levels in the body. As per a study, ashwagandha benefits are similar to that of a type 2 diabetes medication, such as the power of this herb. Additionally, it is also found to reduce the triglycerides level in the blood, thus helping overall health. 

• Boosts Energy

One of the ashwagandha benefits for men is that it boosts energy. It is natural to feel tired and drained out in this fast-paced lifestyle. Additionally, people follow an unhealthy diet and lifestyle, which adds to a lack of stamina. Having to handle all the daily tasks in such a situation adds to the stress and leaves you physically and mentally tired. Ashwagandha powder is a great solution for this. It facilitates the body to conserve energy and improves the overall ability to work and exercise. 

• Boosts Fertility in Men

Studies have shown that ashwagandha powder can improve testosterone levels and increase fertility in men. It was also found that the other ashwagandha benefits for men include that it may increase sperm motility, sperm concentration, and semen volume. Also, since it affects muscle strength in men, it, in turn, helps in balancing the hormones and increasing testosterone levels. 

• Reduces Stress and Anxiety

One of the main ashwagandha benefits is that it is an adaptogen, which means it helps the body adapt to stress. It can help fight symptoms like depression and anxiety. Studies have shown that Ashwagandha Rishta uses is that it can reduce chronic stress and anxiety disorders too. So if you have chronic stress, it is recommended you get a head and body massage or have a hot chocolate with ashwagandha powder as the main ingredient. Ashwagandha's benefits for men are that it reduces stress and anxiety, thereby improving the other aspects of health. 

• Reduce Arthritis

Ashwagandha powder is known to be a good remedy for painful conditions like osteoarthritis. As per Ayurveda, it is a condition that happens due to Vata dosha and causes swelling, pain, and joint immobility. The ashwagandha benefits are that it can control the aggravated Vata and balance it to help alleviate osteoarthritis conditions. 

• Improves Brain Function

Consuming ashwagandha powder can help in better cognitive functioning. As per studies, those who consumes this herb saw an improvement in cognitive functioning in certain people, which included older adult who had mild cognitive impairment. It helped in better memory improved the attention span and processing of the information.

• May Improve Sleep

One of the major ashwagandha powder benefits is that it promotes quality sleep. There is also evidence that one of the Ashwagandhaharistha uses is that it helps with sleep issues. It is considered a natural remedy for people who are battling sleep issues. The ashwagandha powder benefits are that it has sleep-inducing properties that can help people with sleeplessness or insomnia. Mix the ashwagandha powder with milk and have this before sleep to relax and improve sleep quality. 

• Helps in Weight Loss

Are you worried about your bulging waistline? Ashwagandha powder can come to your rescue. It not only helps you to maintain your weight but also reduces weight, provided you follow a proper diet and healthy lifestyle. Additionally, it can also cut the fat deposits in the body and thereby helping you get back into shape. 

• Prevents Skin Acne

Ashwagandha powder derived from the plant's roots has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties and protects the skin from acne and infections. The ashwagandha benefits are that it improves the collagen in the skin and prevents ageing. Also, if you have acne, the ashwagandha powder benefits are such that it can treat scars, acne, and blackheads. Its antiacne properties repair inflammation and improve skin tone.

• May Cure Vitiligo

Vitiligo is a skin condition with a loss of pigmentation or skin color. These usually appear in blotches and are due to the improper functioning of the pigment-producing cells. This is a condition that cannot be cured entirely, however, ashwagandha powder can significantly reduce the extent when it is consumed daily. 

• May Cure Cancer

Aswagandha powder contains a compound called withaferin, which aids in inducing apoptosis or death of cancerous cells. The ashwagandha powder benefits are that it can prevent the growth of cancerous cells. Studies have shown that it can help treat many types of cancers like ovarian, breast, lungs, and colon. Ashwagandha's benefits for men are that it can help treat prostate cancer. 

Side Effects Of Ashwagandha Powder

It is a herb that is safe for most people and can help in effectively managing many health conditions. The ashwagandha benefits for men are that it improves muscular strength and boosts reproductive health. 

Certain people like pregnant women should avoid taking it without the guidance of a health practitioner as it can have side effects if taken in high doses. Also, despite the ashwagandha benefits for men, those taking medications for prostate cancer should consult their doctor before taking them. Those who have thyroid issues should also seek the guidance of their doctors. 

While consuming ashwagandha powder, make sure you read the instructions for recommended dosage. High or low doses may not help with getting all the ashwagandha benefits.

Conclusion

Ashwagandharishta's uses are myriad as the plant is a magical herb that offers many physical and mental health benefits. It can be used topically in the form of face packs or oil or consumed as a supplement. Though it is relatively safe for everyone, if you have health issues and are under medication, consult a doctor before consuming this ayurvedic medicine. Also read Benefits of Drinking Hot Chocolate With Ashwagandha

Authored By: Divya Shankar

About Author: Divya Shankar is a multifaceted content writer with 7+ years of experience. She has exclusive writing expertise in ayurveda.