Ashwagandha Benefits for Skin: Exploring Research-Backed Improvements
By Dr. Aastha Manchanda +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr. Aastha Manchanda
Last updated: Apr 22, 2024Click to rate this article!
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By Dr. Aastha Manchanda +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr. Aastha Manchanda
Last updated: Apr 22, 2024Table of Contents
Ashwagandha, scientifically known as Withania somnifera, is largely used in Ayurvedic medicine. Also called “Indian ginseng” or “winter cherry”, this mighty herb is renowned for its many potential health merits. It is said to boost energy, promote immune health, and ease stress.
In this article, we’ll delve into how ashwagandha may help support skin health. We’ll touch on the possible benefits backed by research. We’ll discuss the proposed anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hydrating, and collagen-producing properties of ashwagandha. We will also elaborate on how to safely use ashwagandha in creams and pills. We’ll discuss any risks and side effects pertaining to ashwagandha usage. Finally, we’ll answer some common queries about using ashwagandha for skin health.
Ashwagandha is a small plant with yellow flowers. It’s native to India and Southeast Asia. For thousands of years, its roots and leaves have been used in holistic medicine for boosting health. In Ayurveda, ashwagandha is an adaptogen. That means it helps the body handle stress and stay balanced.
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Inflammatory processes are activated in our body whenever we get hurt or sick. But, long-term inflammation can lead to skin issues like acne and eczema. It can even speed up aging. Research shows that ashwagandha has strong anti-inflammatory effects which may help it lower skin inflammation. Studies on ashwagandha’s anti-inflammatory properties are ongoing and more studies are needed to corroborate these findings.
Our bodies make unsteady particles called free radicals. These can cause oxidative stress, leading to damage of healthy cells and skin aging. Antioxidants degrade these free radicals and protect our skin. Studies show that ashwagandha has powerful antioxidant properties beneficial for skin health. Further scientific probing is required.
Keeping skin well-hydrated is key to its health. It stops dryness, flakiness, and the onset of fine lines and wrinkles. Studies suggest ashwagandha may help boost skin hydration, and give us an overall healthy complexion.
Collagen is a vital protein in the skin. It provides firmness. So, it is pivotal in maintaining skin health and youthfulness. Some studies reveal that ashwagandha may increase collagen production and aid healthier-looking skin.
Aging skin shows up as fine lines and wrinkles. It also loses firmness with time. Ashwagandha’s antioxidant properties may help slow down the aging process in the skin by stimulating the collagen process.
Stress can cause acne. It upsets the hormone balance and increases body inflammation. This is where ashwagandha’s proposed adaptogenic properties come in. They may help people with acne-prone skin by restoring balance and bringing down breakouts.
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Before incorporating ashwagandha always seek advice from a healthcare professional. The various forms in which it is available and the precautions to take while using it are described below.
Creams or lotions with ashwagandha are the available topical options. They may help handle specific skin issues. These topical management options often come with concentrated ashwagandha extracts.
Besides the topical options, you can take ashwagandha in capsules or pills, or add it as a powder in smoothies and meals. These oral options may aid not just the skin, but overall health as well.
Along with its skin benefits, ashwagandha is also good for your hair. Incorporating ashwagandha extract into your hair care routine, as research suggests using it in topical form, like a serum, may enhance hair growth and improve hair health indicators. This natural approach may offer a safe and effective alternative for managing conditions such as alopecia.
Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D
Ashwagandha can come with certain side effects which are as follows. :
Always remember to seek advice from a health professional before starting any new supplement, including ashwagandha. This can make sure it’s safe based on your personal health requirements.
It’s a lesser-known fact that Ashwagandha might help boost memory, attention, and thinking abilities. Studies have shown that for individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), ashwagandha treatment over eight weeks showed significant improvements in their cognitive abilities.
Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
So, we’ve looked at how ashwagandha could be a boon for skin health. It has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities. It is proposed to promote collagen production, hydrate the skin, and tackle issues like acne and aging. Thus, it seems like a promising tool for better skin health and overall well-being. But remember, it’s important to discuss with a doctor before starting any new therapy. Ashwagandha may not suit everyone. It might even interact with certain medicines or supplements. As science continues to explore the potential of ashwagandha for skin health, our appreciation of this herb is also growing.
Ashwagandha may help support skin health. It may reduce inflammation, boost collagen, hydrate the skin, and shield against oxidative stress.
Daily use of ashwagandha may make your skin look and feel better. It may decrease aging signs, bring down inflammation, boost hydration, and benefit those with acne-prone skin.
Those who are pregnant or nursing, have hormone-sensitive prostate cancer, thyroid issues, are awaiting surgery, or suffer from liver problems should not use ashwagandha for skin health. It’s always better to check with a healthcare professional before starting ashwagandha.
Ashwagandha’s stress-reducing properties may reduce stress-related breakouts. So, if you have acne-prone skin, ashwagandha may be helpful. Incorporate it only after consulting with your healthcare professional.
Ashwagandha may cause side effects like belly discomfort, sleepiness, or diarrhea. Plus, it can interact with certain medications and supplements. So make sure to speak with a healthcare professional before starting to use it.
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