Ashwagandha: Ancient Herb for Modern Health

Ashwagandha, scientifically known as Withania somnifera, is a small shrub used in traditional Ayurvedic practices, native to India, the Middle East, and parts of Africa. The therapeutic benefits lie in its roots. Ayurvedic practitioners have revered this root’s rejuvenating power for over 4,000 years. Often referred to as "Indian ginseng" or "winter cherry," Ashwagandha stands out as a versatile and effective herb that can support various aspects of health and well-being. Let us delves into the benefits of incorporating ashwagandha root for your overall wellness.

Stress and Anxiety Relief

One of the most well-known benefits of ashwagandha is its adaptogenic properties, ability to reduce stress and anxiety. Work-related stress is common in Singapore, with employees facing long hours, heavy workloads, and job insecurity. The Ministry of Manpower reported that 52% of the workforce experiences work-related stress. Several studies have shown that ashwagandha can significantly reduce levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, thereby alleviating symptoms of stress and anxiety.1,2

Enhanced Cognitive Function

Research suggests that ashwagandha may improve brain function, including memory, attention, and information processing speed.3 It is thought to protect nerve cells from damage and promote the growth of new dendrites, enhancing cognitive abilities.

Improved Sleep Quality

For those struggling with insomnia or poor sleep quality, ashwagandha might offer a natural solution. By regulating stress hormones level and reducing nervousness, it helps to calm the mind and regulate sleep patterns, leading to deeper and more restful sleep.4

Increased Energy and Stamina

Regular intake of ashwagandha has been linked to increased energy levels and physical performance.5 It helps reduce fatigue and enhances endurance, making it a popular supplement among athletes and fitness enthusiasts.

Healthy Sexual Wellness

Stress and fatigue are significant factors that can contribute to decreased libido and sexual performance issues. By alleviating stress and boosting stamina, ashwagandha indirectly supports healthy sexual function and desire in both men and women.6,7

Holistic Way Ashwagandha Mood+ uses patented KSM-66 Ashwagandha which is a branded, full-spectrum extract, with the highest concentration of all major root only extracts available on the market. A “full-spectrum” extract is an extract which maintains the balance of the various constituents as in the original herb, without over-representing any one constituent. KSM-66 Ashwagandha has undergone 24 double blind, randomized placebo controlled clinical trials to provide evidence on their therapeutic effects.

This formula is also added with Siberian Ginseng and Rhodiola, which are also adaptogens to help increase energy and resistance to stress. This vegetarian-friendly capsule formula is suitable for both adult men and women who have busy or irregular work schedules, helping them to be more energetic and productive throughout the day.

In conclusion, ashwagandha stands out as a versatile and effective herb that can support various aspects of health and well-being. Whether you are looking to manage stress, boost your energy levels, improve cognitive function, or maintain healthy sexual wellness, ashwagandha offers a natural solution rooted in centuries of traditional use.

References:

• Chandrasekhar, K., et al. (2012). A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of a high-concentration full-spectrum extract of ashwagandha root in reducing stress and anxiety in adults. Indian journal of psychological medicine, 34(3), 255-262.
• Salve, J., et al. (2019). Adaptogenic and anxiolytic effects of ashwagandha root extract in healthy adults: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical study.?Cureus,?11(12).
• Choudhary, D., et al. (2017). Efficacy and safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal) root extract in improving memory and cognitive functions.?Journal of dietary supplements,?14(6), 599-612.
• Kelgane, S. B., et al. (2020). Efficacy and tolerability of ashwagandha root extract in the elderly for improvement of general well-being and sleep: a prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.?Cureus,?12(2).
• Tiwari, S., et al. (2021). A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial on the effect of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera dunal.) root extract in improving cardiorespiratory endurance and recovery in healthy athletic adults. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 272, 113929.
• Chauhan, S., et al. (2022). Effect of standardized root extract of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) on well‐being and sexual performance in adult males: A randomized controlled trial. Health Science Reports, 5(4), e741.
• Ajgaonkar, A., et al. (2022). Efficacy and safety of Ashwagandha (withania somnifera) root extract for improvement of sexual health in healthy women: a prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled study.?Cureus,?14(10).