Benefits of ashwagandha for women
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Benefits of Ashwagandha for Women
Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera, is a revered herb in Ayurvedic medicine, known for its adaptogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Recent research has highlighted several specific benefits of Ashwagandha for women, ranging from improved sexual health to enhanced fertility and cancer treatment support.
Ashwagandha and Breast Cancer
Anti-Cancer Properties
Ashwagandha has shown promising results in the treatment and prevention of breast cancer. Various studies have demonstrated its anti-apoptotic, anti-metastatic, anti-invasive, and anti-inflammatory properties, which are crucial in combating cancer cells. Specifically, Ashwagandha has been found effective against ER/PR positive breast cancer and triple-negative breast cancer, potentially improving the quality of life for breast cancer patients1.
Sexual Health Improvement
Enhanced Sexual Function
Sexual dysfunction is a common issue affecting many women, often leading to decreased quality of life. Ashwagandha has been shown to significantly improve sexual function in women. In a randomized, placebo-controlled study, women who took Ashwagandha root extract reported significant improvements in sexual desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and reduction in pain during intercourse2 3. These improvements were measured using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and the Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS), indicating a comprehensive enhancement in sexual health.
Increased Sexual Satisfaction
Further studies have confirmed that Ashwagandha not only improves sexual function but also increases the frequency of satisfying sexual encounters. Women taking Ashwagandha reported a higher number of successful sexual encounters compared to those taking a placebo, highlighting its potential as a natural remedy for sexual health issues2 3.
Fertility and Reproductive Health
Restoring Fertility
Ashwagandha has been traditionally used to address reproductive issues and improve fertility in both men and women. Its iron chelation and antioxidant properties help mitigate the effects of iron overload, which can cause oxidative stress and damage to reproductive organs. By reducing oxidative stress and improving the function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, Ashwagandha helps restore fertility and enhance libido4.
Physical Endurance and Muscle Strength
Enhanced Physical Performance
Ashwagandha is also beneficial for women engaged in physical activities. Studies have shown that supplementation with Ashwagandha root extract can significantly improve muscle strength, muscle size, and cardiorespiratory endurance. Women participating in resistance training and taking Ashwagandha experienced greater improvements in muscle mass and endurance compared to those taking a placebo, making it a valuable supplement for athletes and fitness enthusiasts5.
Conclusion
Ashwagandha offers a range of benefits for women, from improving sexual health and fertility to supporting breast cancer treatment and enhancing physical performance. Its adaptogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties make it a versatile and valuable natural remedy for various health concerns. As research continues to uncover the full potential of Ashwagandha, it remains a promising option for women's health and well-being.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
Keeping abreast about Ashwagandha in breast cancer.
Ashwagandha shows potential as a chemotherapeutic agent against various types of breast cancer, with potential benefits for ER/PR positive and triple-negative breast cancers.
Systematic ReviewEfficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Extract for Improvement of Sexual Health in Healthy Women: A Prospective, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study
Ashwagandha root extract 300mg twice daily for eight weeks improves female sexual health in healthy women without hormonal disturbances.
RCT
Rigorous JournalEfficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Extract in Improving Sexual Function in Women: A Pilot Study
Ashwagandha root extract (HCARE) supplementation significantly improves sexual function and satisfaction in healthy women when taken orally for 8 weeks.
RCTRigorous JournalIron chelation and antioxidant properties of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) restore fertility in men and women
Ashwagandha restores fertility in men and women by improving testicular and ovarian functions, making it a safer and more cost-effective alternative to synthetic drugs.
Effects of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) standardized root extract on physical endurance and VO2max in healthy adults preforming resistance training: An eight-week, prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study
Ashwagandha root extract supplementation for eight weeks effectively improves muscle strength, growth, endurance, and recovery in both male and female participants.
RCTAshwagandha (Withania somnifera)—Current Research on the Health-Promoting Activities: A Narrative Review
Ashwagandha shows potential as a valuable natural remedy for various health concerns, including neuroprotective, sedative, adaptogenic, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, and anti-diabetic properties.
Literature ReviewPotential clinical applications of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in medicine and neuropsychiatry
Ashwagandha shows potential in reducing stress, improving cognition, and enhancing exercise capacity in healthy adults, but more large-scale, methodologically stringent clinical trials are needed for confident recommendations.
Systematic ReviewSafety of Ashwagandha Root Extract: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Study in Healthy Volunteers.
Ashwagandha root extract consumption for 8 weeks was safe in both males and females, with no reported adverse events.
RCTA Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Study Examining the Hormonal and Vitality Effects of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in Aging, Overweight Males
Ashwagandha intake for 8 weeks increased levels of DHEA-S and testosterone in overweight men, but did not significantly affect cortisol, estradiol, fatigue, vigor, or sexual well-being.
RCTRigorous JournalAshwagandha in brain disorders: A review of recent developments.
Ashwagandha shows potential as a neuroprotective agent in various brain disorders, but further study is needed to confirm its mechanistic pathways and promote it as a promising drug candidate.
Systematic Review