Ashwagandha
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Ashwagandha, or Withania Somnifera, or Indian Winter Cherry, is an Indian herb with several different names. It is an adaptogen as well as an antioxidant. This means that it helps the body adapt to either physical or mental challenges (stress).
It is also sometimes referred to as "Indian gingseng" because it has beneficial effects on mental performance.
Those who have used and researched Ashwagandha say:
- it improves allergy symptoms
- it helps to prevent cancer recurrences
- it improves arthritic conditions
- it improves mental functions.
Our Experience Confirms Research!
Both my husband, and I, have experienced results similar to the findings of previously cited research. We've been able to stop taking allergy medications by taking this supplement regularly instead. I took a pill four times a day to control my allergies during peak allergy season. Additionally, as a cancer patient, I've not had any recurrences. My husband controls his allergies with only two doses a day. So, the recommended dosage will vary depending on the condition for which you take it.
If you take it as an anti-aging preventative you would also take two pills a day. That is the suggested dosage given on the bottle. If you are taking it for some other condition, check with your doctor or an herbalist for the best dosage.
Get an Effective Supplement...
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On the other hand if you buy from a reputable supplier such as Life Extension Foundation, you can be sure you'll get a quality supplement. Order by clicking on the image to the left.
We have used a 570 milligram tablet put out by Planetary Herbals. It is a combination of 500 milligrams of Ashwagandha root combined with a 70 milligram root extract in a 25:1 ratio. This gives a final product of 5% withanolides. The withanolides are the active antioxidant ingredients in this herb.
If you buy it from a health food store, be sure to check the back of the label and get at least 5% withanolides. The Life Extension supplement shown above has 8%.
If you buy online, usually you can click somewhere on the picture of the product, and it will show you the information on the back, so you can know what you're getting. As long as it is a product with at least a 5% concentration of withanolides, it should be effective.
Cautions and Availability
Since this herb has such a long history of usage in India, you can be sure it is safe to use.It is probably one of the most widely available herbs when purchased alone, so you can get it practically anywhere from Wal-Mart to Life Extension Foundation.
However, it is also available in combination herbal formulas such as Memoril Memory and Mood, available by clicking the preceding link from Nutri-Health Supplements.
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