Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases worldwide, and it’s becoming more common daily. Aside from the obvious health risks of diabetes, such as heart disease and stroke, it also causes many other problems.
For example, diabetes can affect your vision, hearing ability, and even your sex life. That’s why it’s important to know about the benefits of ashwagandha for diabetes.
When it comes to managing diabetes, there are many options available. But one ancient remedy that is gaining popularity is ashwagandha. This Indian herb has been used for centuries to treat various ailments, and now it is being studied for its potential to help people with diabetes.
In this article, we’ll discuss what ashwagandha is, how it can help you with diabetes, and some side effects you may experience.
Learn how a daily dose of Ashwagandha can help you manage blood sugar levels naturally!
What is Diabetes?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), diabetes is a condition that affects how your body uses blood sugar. Diabetes can be caused by too much sugar in your blood, and it can also be caused by your body not making enough insulin.
There are two types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes is when your body does not make insulin and is usually diagnosed in children or young adults.
Type 2 diabetes is when your body does not make enough insulin or when the insulin does not work properly. It is the most common type of diabetes and usually develops in adults.
If you have diabetes, you must take care of your health care. This means taking medicine, eating healthy foods, exercising, and checking your blood sugar often. You can live a long and healthy life if you care for yourself.
Ashwagandha: What Is It?
Ashwagandha is an ancient medicinal herb that has been used for centuries in India. The name ashwagandha comes from the Sanskrit word meaning “smell of horse,” which is fitting because this plant has a strong, earthy aroma.
Ashwagandha is most commonly used as an adaptogen, a natural substance that helps the body cope with stress. This herb is also known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety properties.
It is an evergreen shrub that grows in India, the Middle East, and Africa. Its roots and berries have been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to treat various conditions, including anxiety, insomnia, and low energy levels.
Related: What Ashwagandha is Good for? Science-Backed Health Benefits
How Does Ashwagandha Help with Diabetes?
Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic herb used for centuries for its medicinal properties. The active ingredient in ashwagandha, Withanolides, has been shown to have several health benefits, including the ability to lower blood sugar levels.
A recent study showed that ashwagandha could significantly lower blood sugar levels in rats with diabetes. The study found that ashwagandha could decrease fasting blood sugar levels by up to 29%.
Another study showed that ashwagandha could improve insulin sensitivity and reduce insulin resistance. This is important because insulin resistance is a major factor in developing type 2 diabetes.
These studies suggest that ashwagandha may be an effective natural treatment for diabetes and prediabetes. A new study has shown that the ancient herb Ashwagandha may help to improve blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
In the study, 60 people with type 2 diabetes were given either a placebo or a capsule of ashwagandha extract daily for 8 weeks. At the end of the study, those who had taken ashwagandha had significantly lower fasting blood sugar levels than those who had taken the placebo.
Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. It is thought to help the body deal with stress and balance hormones.
This may be one of the mechanisms by which it helps to improve blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. If you have type 2 diabetes, ask your doctor whether ashwagandha may be right for you.
What are the Benefits of Taking Ashwagandha for Diabetes?
Diabetes is a serious condition that can lead to several health complications, including heart disease, kidney disease, and blindness. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 29 million people in the United States have diabetes.
There is no cure for diabetes, but there are treatments that can help people manage the condition and stay healthy. One such treatment is ashwagandha.
If you are interested in trying ashwagandha, speak with your doctor first. The herb is generally considered safe but can interact with some medications. Ashwagandha has been shown to offer various benefits for people with diabetes.
One of the main benefits of taking ashwagandha for diabetes is that it can help to lower blood sugar levels. A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that participants who took this herb had significantly lower fasting blood sugar levels than those who didn’t.
Another benefit of taking ashwagandha is that it can help improve insulin sensitivity. Insulin resistance is a common problem in people with type 2 diabetes, and this herb may help to improve the body’s response to insulin.
It can also reduce other diabetic complications, such as nerve and kidney damage.
Neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes, affecting up to 50% of people with the disease. Diabetic neuropathy can cause various symptoms, from pain and numbness in the extremities to problems with the digestive system, urinary tract, blood vessels, and heart.
There is no cure for diabetic neuropathy, but treatments are available to help manage the symptoms. Ashwagandha is thought to help relieve neuropathic pain by reducing inflammation and boosting nerve growth factor (NGF) levels.
In one study, mice with diabetic neuropathy who were given ashwagandha had significantly less pain and improved nerve function than those who did not receive the herb.
How to Use Ashwagandha for Diabetes?
If you have diabetes, you may be interested in learning how to take ashwagandha for the condition.
There is some scientific evidence to support these claims. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that ashwagandha improved blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity in people with type 2 diabetes.
If you’re considering taking ashwagandha for diabetes, you must talk to your doctor first. This is especially true if you take medication for diabetes or have any other health conditions. Ashwagandha can interact with some medications and may not be safe for everyone.
Ashwagandha Dosage for Diabetes
The recommended dosage of ashwagandha for diabetes is 500-1000 mg daily. This can be taken in the form of capsules or powder. It is best to take it with food to avoid any stomach upset. Ashwagandha is a safe herb with rare-minimal side effects.
However, it is best to consult your healthcare provider before taking it if you are pregnant or nursing.
Related: Ashwagandha for Infertility: Does It Work?
Alternatives
There are several alternatives to medication for diabetes. These include diet and exercise, natural remedies, and supplements.
Diet and exercise are two of the most important factors in managing diabetes. A healthy diet can help to control blood sugar levels, while regular exercise can help to improve insulin sensitivity. Several specific diets can be helpful for people with diabetes, such as the Paleo, the ketogenic, and the low-glycemic index.
Natural remedies can also help manage diabetes. Some common effective herbs and spices include cinnamon, turmeric, fenugreek, and ginger. Several homeopathic remedies can be used to treat diabetes. Supplements can also help manage diabetes.
Related: 18 Evidence-Based Health Benefits of Quinoa
Are There Any Risks Associated with Taking Ashwagandha for Diabetes?
Recent studies have shown that ashwagandha can effectively treat diabetes. But are there any risks associated with taking Ashwagandha for diabetes?
Experts say that ashwagandha is generally safe for most people. However, some people may experience side effects such as stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting. If you have diabetes, it’s important to talk to your doctor before taking ashwagandha or other supplements, as they can interact with your medication.
While some risks are associated with taking ashwagandha for diabetes, the benefits seem to outweigh the risks. If you’re considering taking this herb, talk to your doctor first.
Conclusion
Ashwagandha is an effective natural treatment for diabetes. Not only does it help to regulate blood sugar levels, but it also has a positive effect on insulin sensitivity and can even reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications. If you want a safe and effective way to treat your diabetes, consider adding ashwagandha to your routine.
For best results, it is important to take ashwagandha as directed by a healthcare professional.
FAQs | Ashwagandha and Diabetes
Is ashwagandha good for diabetes?
There is evidence that ashwagandha may assist people with diabetes in decreasing their blood sugar levels. More study, however, is required to establish these effects.
When should I take ashwagandha for diabetes?
Because everyone’s situation is unique, there is no definite answer to this question. On the other hand, some people find that taking ashwagandha in the morning helps them maintain their blood sugar levels throughout the day. Others report that taking it at night improves their sleep and reduces blood sugar. It is ultimately up to the individual to experiment with various timing and doses to determine what works best.
Can Ashwagandha reduce blood sugar?
There is some evidence that ashwagandha may aid in blood sugar regulation. Mouse research discovered that the plant might lower blood sugar levels by up to 29%. The more human study is needed to corroborate these findings.
How much ashwagandha should a person with diabetes take daily?
There is no recommended daily dose of ashwagandha for diabetics because the herb may be utilized in various ways to help manage blood sugar levels. However, it is normally advised to begin with a low herb dose (about 250 mg) and gradually increase as needed.
Can ashwagandha be taken with metformin?
Ashwagandha and metformin have no recognized interactions. However, as with any new supplement, it is always preferable to consult a healthcare expert first.
Other Articles in This Series
- Ashwagandha Skin Benefits You Didn’t Know About
- Ashwagandha for Infertility: Does It Work?
- Ashwagandha and Heart Health
- The Truth About Ashwagandha for Stress and Anxiety
- Ashwagandha Good for Sleeping?
- Link Between Ashwagandha and Breast Cancer (or Any Cancer)
- Can We Use Ashwagandha for Inflammation?
- Ashwagandha and Immune System
- Chronic Fatigue | Does Ashwagandha Give You Energy?
- Benefits of Ashwagandha for Arthritis
- Does Ashwagandha Help with Depression?
- 11 Benefits of Ashwagandha for Menopause
- 3 Proven Ashwagandha Benefits for Sexual Dysfunction (Based on Research)
- Ashwagandha and Parkinson’s (Should You Try It?)
- Ashwagandha for Alzheimer’s Disease | What Does Science Say?
Sources
- CDC: What is Diabetes?
- CDC: Diabetes Basics
- Freedom From Diabetes: Ashwagandha Benefits for Diabetes Management
- The HealthSite: Ashwagandha for diabetes: How does it help in managing blood sugar?
- WebMD: Ashwagandha
- Medical News Today: What to know about ashwagandha and diabetes
Editor’s Note: Viewers should be aware that the health information presented in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of their qualified healthcare provider. If you have any concerns about your health, please consult with your healthcare provider.
