Ashwagandha, known as Indian winter cherry is a shrub grown in India and North America. The cardioprotective nature of ashwagandha is linked to the fact that it is adaptogenic, antioxidant, anticoagulant and an anti-inflammatory herb. Due to these properties there will be beneficial interactions with various enzymes and hormones in the body.
You can use ashwagandha to lower cholesterol levels naturally.
Excess LDL cholesterol clogs our arteries with a thick, hard deposit called plaque which causes atherosclerosis.
Ashwagandha, being anti-clotting, anti-stress and anti-inflammatory protects and maintains the heart health.
It is rich in antioxidant flavonoids Which lower LDL levels and check them from rising because of oxidation and prevent free radical damage that causes plaque formation.
According to study, ashwagandha can lower total cholesterol by 53% and triglycerides by 45%. In a 60 day study of chronically stressed adults, the group taking the highest dosage of ashwagandha experienced a 17% decrease in LDL cholesterol. These studies prove that ashwagandha can help in reducing the risk of heart disease, by decreasing cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Ashwagandha is used regularly as a mood enhancer and stress reliever, it is not yet prescribed actively for cardiovascular diseases. More studies on this subject are being conducted, ashwagandha has flavonoids which have antioxidant action.
Flavonoids are the macronutrients that may reduce the risk of atherosclerosis. Lack of antioxidants causes free radical damage, leading to plaque formation in the arteries. Its antioxidant action may help in ensuring that LDL levels do not rise due to oxidation.
Ashwagandha has hypocholesterolemic properties which helps in preventing atherosclerosis.
More research is still being done, ashwagandha does offer hope in fighting against cardivascular diseases and cholesterol. It has no side effects.
How to use ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha is safe for most people. However, certain individuals should not use it unless authorized by their doctor. Consult your doctor to amke sure this herb is okay for you.
The recommended dosage is 450-500 mg once or twice per day.
Use ashwagandha regularly to lower cholesterol and keep your heart healthy.
