Withania Somnifera Benefits, Medicinal Effects & Adverse Reactions

Withania somnifera is a small evergreen shrub that is found in dry areas of Africa, the Middle East and India. The substances extracted from this plant have been used in alternative medicine for centuries.

Today, this plant is used to make supplements that are purported to offer a number of health benefits. Withania somnifera is described as an “adaptogen”, meaning that it improves the body’s ability to maintain homeostasis.

Some of the active constituents of Withania somnifera include steroidal lactones and alkaloids. This substance affects the body in a variety of ways and may support anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and pro-adrenergic effects.

According to the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, there is insufficient reliable evidence to rate the purported benefits of Withania Somnifera or any of its traditional uses. However, research studies have demonstrated a number of mechanisms of action which may affect general health.

Ashwagandha

Adaptogen

Stress

Mood

Sleep

How It Works:

• Reduces stress and anxiety
• Improves concentration, fatigue & sleep
• Protects against oxidative stress

Dosage:

Between 300 - 1000 mg per day

Safety:

Rated Possibly Safe

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Withania Somnifera Benefits

Withania somnifera is believed to normalize and revitalize various bodily functions. Many people also believe that this substance can help the body resist both physical and psychological stress.

Thus, the possible uses of Withania somnifera vary considerably. Some of the effects identified by research include:

• Stimulation of thyroid function.
• Changes to protein synthesis.
• Promotion of healing within the nervous system.
• Modulation of the immune system.
• Androgenic effects.
• Promotion of healing within the liver.
• Enhancement of fertility.
• Diuretic effects.
• Anti-inflammatory effects.
• Anti-oxidant effects.
• Depression of the central nervous system.
• Promotion of smooth muscle relaxation.
• Reduction of blood pressure.

Withania somnifera is taken orally in the form of a capsule, powder or tea. It may also be applied topically.

Withania Somnifera Benefits for Weight Loss

Some people use Withania somnifera to aid in weight loss and to improve thyroid hormone levels.

One of the primary factors that contribute to weight gain or the inability to lose weight is the production of cortisol, a steroid hormone. This hormone is produced in high amounts during times of stress.

Because Withania somnifera may reduce stress and anxiety, people who consume this supplement may be able to lose weight more effectively.

In addition, studies have shown that Withania somnifera stimulates thyroid function and decreases cholesterol levels.

Withania Somnifera Benefits for Bodybuilding

Another potential use of Withania somnifera is to increase muscle mass for bodybuilders. Studies have shown that Withania somnifera has androgenic properties, which means that it behaves somewhat like testosterone.

Because testosterone plays an important role in the development of muscle tissue, taking Withania somnifera may be beneficial to people who are involved in bodybuilding or who simply want to increase their lean muscle mass.

Withania Somnifera Benefits for Anxiety

Withania somnifera has been shown to lower blood pressure and act as a central nervous system depressant.

In addition, a recent clinical trial showed that adding Withania somnifera to a comprehensive treatment program improved symptoms among individuals with moderate-to-severe anxiety more than a placebo.

Some of the other common uses of Withania somnifera include the treatment of arthritis, asthma, tumors, liver disease, tuberculosis, fibromyalgia and infertility. This supplement may also be used to improve cognitive function, stimulate the immune system or boost libido.

However, more research is needed to validate the efficacy of Withania extract for these uses. This supplement has not been approved by the FDA as a drug for the treatment of any medical conditions.

Withania Somnifera Side Effects

Withania somnifera has been rated as Possibly Safe for short-term use by the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database.

When side effects are experienced, they are generally mild and transient. For example, some people report that Withania somnifera causes slight sedation.

Although Withania somnifera doesn’t produce many side effects, it may interact with several different medications. Medications that may interact with this herbal extract include:

• Thyroid supplements
• Immunosuppressants
• CNS depressants
• Benzodiazepines
• Blood pressure medications
• Diabetes medications

Users of Withania somnifera should also exercise caution when taking the supplement with any other herbs or supplements that have sedative or hypotensive effects. These effects may be enhanced with the addition of Withania extracts.

Withania somnifera supplements may be unsafe for people with certain disease or conditions. If you have a thyroid disorder, peptic ulcer disease, hypotension, hypertension, diabetes or an autoimmune disease, talk to your doctor to determine whether this product is appropriate for you.

Discontinue your use of Withania somnifera at least two weeks before undergoing any surgical procedure.

Withania Somnifera Dosage Recommendations

The amount of Withania somnifera you should take depends on the type of supplement you are using, as well as your intended purpose.

In past studies, individuals have consumed 1 to 6 grams of the whole herb in the form of a tea made once daily. Individuals have also consumed 3 grams of powdered Withania somnifera in boiled milk once daily, as well as 1 to 6 grams of the herb in capsule form once daily.

Withania somnifera toxicity is unlikely but possible. In animal studies, researchers have found that dosages of 1,000 mg per kg of body weight were fatal. This is many times higher than the standard dosage used.

Withania somnifera’s benefits may include improved fertility, a boost to thyroid function and support for the immune system. In addition, Withania somnifera may offer several benefits for men, including the development of more lean muscle mass, improved fertility and higher libido.

Furthermore, Withania somnifera is a natural substance, and it produces very few side effects, making it an appealing choice for people who prefer more natural remedies. However, as with any supplement, you should talk to your doctor before adding it to your regimen.

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