Ashwagandha is an ancient adaptogenic herb that comes from Ayurveda and is well known for its diverse range of health benefits. While this herb is most commonly associated with stress relief and energy enhancement, ashwagandha provides a lot of support for women in particular by providing hormonal balance, reproductive health, thyroid support, cognitive regulation, and immune health.
It is important to note that ashwagandha works in part by interacting with the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis, decreasing cortisol levels, and affecting neurotransmitter activity, all of which are part of its effect on the human body (NIH). Below, we explore the various ways Ashwagandha benefits women's health, supported by research and clinical studies.
8 Proven Benefits of Ashwagandha
1. Supports Hormonal Balance and Menstrual Health
Hormonal imbalances can result in irregular periods, PMS symptoms, and reproductive problems. Ashwagandha can improve the regulation of key hormones by decreasing cortisol levels, a hormone known to disrupt reproductive hormones (NIH). For the Regulation of Cortisol & Stress Related Hormones, the main stress hormone, cortisol, competes for progesterone leading to irregular cycles and fertility issues. Ashwagandha is classified as an adaptogen, meaning it can lessen cortisol levels and stabilize hormones.
It has several benefits for Menstrual Cycle Regulation & PMS Relief, by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, Ashwagandha can minimize PMS symptoms such as bloating, mood swings, and fatigue. There are benefits for Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which is characterized by hormonal imbalance, inflammation, and insulin resistance. It has been researched that Ashwagandha can improve insulin sensitivity and decrease androgens in women with PCOS which improves ovarian function (NIH).
Ashwagandha can also support the body's natural ability to regulate the hypothalamic pituitary ovarian (HPO) axis, which plays a vital role in reproductive health. By decreasing cortisol, Ashwagandha can also help prevent the effects stress may have on hormonal regulation, making it easier to maintain regular cycles and manage symptoms related to PCOS.
2. Enhances Fertility and Reproductive Health
Infertility affects a significant number of women, and Ashwagandha has been shown to enhance reproductive health, primarily by balancing the sex hormones throughout the body and reducing oxidative stress. Ashwagandha is suggested to enhance reproductive health by improving follicular development and ovulation by regulating the hypothalamic pituitary gonadal axis, which is a key hormone mechanism that is directly involved in the maintenance of reproductive capacity. Oxidative stress may damage reproductive cells and impair fertility. Ashwagandha is a strong antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals and protects ovarian cells against damage. The presence of Ashwagandha may increase overall fertility outcomes by promoting a more favorable reproductive environment.
3. Reduces Stress, Anxiety, and Enhances Mood
Ashwagandha is well known for its calming effects on the nervous system, making it an effective natural remedy for stress, anxiety, and depression. It helps in reducing cortisol levels, which play a significant role in stress regulation and anxiety management (NIH).
By enhancing serotonin and gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels, Ashwagandha supports neurotransmitter balance, promoting relaxation and emotional stability. Its ability to modulate these key neurotransmitters contributes to improved mood and mental wellbeing.
Ashwagandha is well known for its calming effects on the nervous system, making it an effective natural remedy for stress, anxiety, and depression (NIH).
4. Improves Energy Levels and Reduces Fatigue
Chronic fatigue can often be linked to stress and adrenal fatigue, and using Ashwagandha can help. Ashwagandha improves mitochondrial function, which in turn improves cellular energy production and, thus, endurance and vitality.
Additionally, Ashwagandha helps support adrenal glands so you can respond more effectively to stressors and experience less burnout and fatigue. As an adaptogenic herb, Ashwagandha is helpful for energy balance, giving you the sustained physical and mental endurance to carry out your day.
5. Supports Thyroid Health
Thyroid disorders, particularly hypothyroidism, are common among women, and Ashwagandha has been recognized for its ability to regulate thyroid hormone levels. It helps increase thyroxine (T4) levels and enhances the conversion of T4 to the active triiodothyronine (T3), which is essential for maintaining a healthy metabolism (NIH).
Additionally, its powerful anti inflammatory properties may help reduce thyroid antibodies in women with autoimmune thyroid disorders such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, potentially improving thyroid function and overall well being.
6. Improves Cognitive Function and Memory
Cognitive decline and brain fog, which are often correlated with stress, aging, and hormonal imbalances, can be improved with the use of Ashwagandha. Ashwagandha facilitates nerve regeneration and helps protect against neurodegeneration, which are both components of overall brain health (MDPI). Studies show that daily use of Ashwagandha improves memory, focus, and processing speed, resulting in cognitive benefit and improved mental clarity (NIH).
7. Boosts Immunity and Overall Wellbeing
Having a strong immune system is important for women's health and Ashwagandha is also well known for the role it plays in improving immune response. It enhanced the production of white blood cells which in turn increased the overall natural defenses of the body to fight infection. Chronic inflammation is the major cause of many health issues and again, Ashwagandha can help with lowering inflammatory markers in the body, such as the inflammatory marker C reactive protein (CRP), to ensure long-term health and wellbeing.
8. Supports Weight Management and Metabolism
Ashwagandha aids in weight regulation by facilitating the balance of stress hormones and supporting metabolic functionality. By decreasing spikes in cortisol induced by stress, it helps reduce emotional-based food cravings and prevent stress-triggered weight gain. Furthermore, ashwagandha helps improve glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity, therefore, it can be beneficial for women with insulin resistance and metabolic disorders (NIH).
Conclusion
Ashwagandha is a versatile adaptogen that provides a multitude of benefits for women’s health, ranging from hormonal balance and fertility support to cognitive enhancement and immune health. Its ability to reduce stress, improve thyroid function, and promote overall well-being makes it a valuable addition to a holistic wellness routine.
For optimal benefits, Ashwagandha is available in various forms, including standardized extracts such as KSM-66, which is backed by scientific research. Consuming it regularly at clinically recommended dosages can lead to significant improvements in overall health and well-being.
Recommended Products
Pure Ashwagandha
₹616 – ₹1,168
DOWNLOAD NOW
