Ashwagandha - the medicinal plant at a glance

Ashwagandha – The medicinal plant, also known as the Indian berry, is considered a versatile superfood with numerous positive effects on our health, performance, psyche, and sleep. Learn more about the Indian berry and how it promotes relaxation and sleep here.

Table of contents

1. What is Ashwagandha?
2. Ingredients and effects of the Ashwagandha plant
3. Positive properties of the Ashwagandha plant
   
4. Ashwagandha & Stress
5. Ashwagandha & Sleep
6. Application and intake
7. Conclusion

1. What is Ashwagandha?

In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, the Ashwagandha plant has been considered a versatile natural remedy for thousands of years, which is said to not only improve cognitive and physical performance and reduce stress, but also ensure better sleep.

The Ashwagandha plant (Withania Somnifera), Also known as Indian ginseng, Indian ginseng, or winter cherry, it belongs to the nightshade family. It is cultivated primarily in Africa, Asia, and the Arab world and is known as a medicinal plant in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, particularly in India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. There, the leaves and roots of the plant are primarily processed, as these parts contain the highest concentration of active ingredients. The bitter-tasting berries, seeds, and stems of the Indian ginseng, on the other hand, are rarely used.

2. Ingredients & effects of the Ashwagandha plant

The Ashwagandha plant is said to have numerous positive effects, although its actual effectiveness has not yet been fully scientifically proven. However, in Ayurvedic medicine, the Indian ginseng has proven particularly effective as a remedy for sleep and insomnia, anxiety, and stress.

Ashwagandha is one of the so-called adaptogens. These are medicinal plants whose effects help increase our body's ability to adapt to stress and strain and mitigate their negative effects. The reason for this effect lies in the rather unusual composition of the nutrients it contains. Studies have shown that the ashwagandha plant contains hardly any vitamins or minerals. The positive effects are therefore due to the "secondary plant substances" it contains, such as alkaloids and withanolides, which contribute to numerous important processes in our body. Ashwagandha is considered extremely versatile and not only has a calming and balancing effect on the body and mind, but also a strengthening and revitalizing effect.

3. Positive properties of the Ashwagandha plant

• Increases stress resistance and reduces the feeling of stress

• Promotes falling asleep and sleep

• Has a calming and anxiety-relieving effect

• Strengthens memory performance

• Lowers blood pressure & cholesterol levels

• Protects and supports the regeneration of nerve cells

• Strengthens the immune and nervous systems

4. Ashwagandha & Stress

A persistently high level of stress is detrimental to both mental and physical health. Under extreme pressure or stress, the body releases the stress hormone cortisol, which has an activating effect and puts the nervous system under tension.As an adaptogenic medicinal plant, Ashwagandha actively lowers cortisol levels. This can reduce one's own perception of stress and simultaneously strengthen general stress resistance. This Ayurvedic medicinal plant is also rich in antioxidants, which protect our body cells from harmful influences and oxidative stress. The components of the Indian ginseng also counteract high blood pressure. Body and mind are supported in different areas to relax and calm down and a strong nervous system and high resistance to stress are promoted.

5. Ashwagandha & Sleep

Healthy sleep is essential for us. Inner restlessness, stress, and excitement can make it difficult to fall asleep and impair sleep quality, as the body releases increased amounts of cortisol. Cortisol acts as an antagonist to the famous sleep hormone. Melatonin, which regulates the sleep-wake cycle and makes us tired in the evening as darkness falls. If cortisol levels are too high in the evening, the important melatonin synthesis is inhibited and the natural sleep rhythm is affected. This makes it difficult to fall asleep and reduces sleep quality.

Ashwagandha plant extracts lower cortisol levels, reduce stress, and also have an anti-anxiety and calming effect. This relaxes the body and mind, allowing them to prepare for the nightly rest and regeneration phase during sleep. The natural sleep process is thus supported by balancing hormone levels and promoting inner peace.

Ashwagandha root therefore has a natural sleep-promoting effect and can be used to prevent sleep disorders, especially those caused by stress. Unlike chemical sleep aids, it helps the body optimize its natural function and supports the process of falling asleep without altering natural sleep patterns.

You can find more tips for relaxing before sleep here.

6. Application and intake

In traditional medicine, it is usually used in paste or powder form, as the rich roots are so easy to process. The plant's leaves can also be brewed as a tea, but this is less common due to their bitter taste and comparatively less effective effects. In Europe, Ashwagandha root extracts are considered a dietary supplement and are increasingly found in various capsule or tea products, and as pure powder.

To improve sleep, we recommend taking it in the last few hours before bedtime. This allows the ingredients to slowly take effect and best support you and your sleep.

7. Conclusion

• The Ashwagandha plant/winter cherry is a proven medicinal plant in Ayurvedic medicine against stress, sleep disorders and anxiety.

• The roots of the plant in particular contain effective secondary plant substances such as alkaloids and withanolides and are usually used as powder or in capsules.

• Ashwagandha has a calming and stimulating effect and is particularly effective against stress and sleep disorders.

Best wishes and see you soon!