Ashwagandha for Energy
Long-distance cycling is an endurance sport that demands high levels of aerobic fitness and energy. To meet these energy needs, many products like gel packets, energy chews, and sports drinks have been developed. However, these products mainly provide extra calories, which are essential when you’re burning a lot of energy, but they don’t necessarily enhance physical performance.
In 2012, a study by the Faculty of Sports Medicine and Physiotherapy at India’s Guru Nanak Dev University explored the effects of ashwagandha on forty elite cyclists over eight weeks. By the end of the study, the cyclists showed significant improvements in both cardiovascular and respiratory endurance.
Additionally, research from Malaysia indicated that regular administration of ashwagandha root extract to chemotherapy patients could potentially alleviate fatigue and improve their quality of life.
Cognitive Benefits of Ashwagandha
In Ayurvedic medicine, ashwagandha root extract is commonly used to enhance memory and improve brain function. One of the key mechanisms behind this benefit is its antioxidant properties. Since oxidative stress is a contributing factor to neurodegenerative disorders, reducing oxidative damage can offer neuroprotection.
Several studies on rats have demonstrated that ashwagandha root extract may prevent memory impairment and reduce oxidative stress in the brain.
Ashwagandha to Relieve Stress
Stress impacts both the mind and body, often leading to underperformance and a diminished quality of life. Ashwagandha has been recognized in both Ayurvedic and Greek medicine for its ability to combat stress.
The Department of Neuropsychiatry and Geriatric Psychiatry at India’s Asha Hospital conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study with sixty-four subjects who had a history of chronic stress. Participants were divided into control and study groups, with the study group receiving high-concentration, full-spectrum ashwagandha root extract. After two months, the study group reported significant improvements in all stress measurements and quality of life, without any serious side effects.
Stress and Male Fertility
Stress is also known to contribute to male infertility. Alongside Tribulus terrestris, ashwagandha is valued for its positive effects on fertility.
The Department of Biochemistry at C.S.M. Medical University conducted a study involving sixty infertile men who had normal sperm production. These participants were given five grams of ashwagandha root powder daily for three months. By the end of the study, reductions in stress and improvements in semen quality were observed, with 14% of the participants’ partners becoming pregnant.
Supplementing with Ashwagandha
Ginseng Fuzion? is my formula designed to boost energy and promote a positive response to stress. It includes a blend of six top herbal adaptogens, including ashwagandha, and has received overwhelmingly positive feedback. However, be aware that ashwagandha may cause drowsiness. If you are taking any medications that could interact with this effect, it is best to consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen. Unfortunately, many conventional practitioners may overlook this advice. Will the medical establishment eventually embrace and promote ashwagandha root? Only time will tell.
