Ashwagandha For Skin Benefits And How to Use It
Learn how to use Ashwagandha for skin benefits.
Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries due to its various health benefits. One of the lesser-known but significant benefits of Ashwagandha is its potential impact on skin health. Here’s a look at how Ashwagandha can benefit your skin and how to use it.
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Ashwagandha For Skin Benefits
1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Ashwagandha has stress-reducing properties that help improve overall skin health by reducing the production of cortisol, a stress hormone known to cause inflammation and premature aging of the skin. By maintaining optimal levels of cortisol in the body, Ashwagandha can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark circles under the eyes.
2. Antioxidant Properties
Ashwagandha is rich in antioxidants, including superoxide dismutase, reduced glutathione, and ascorbic acid, which help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. These antioxidants can also help even out skin tone, reduce hyperpigmentation, and improve the overall texture of the skin.
3. Anti-inflammatory Properties
It has potent anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe inflammation, redness, and irritation on the skin. It can also help reduce the symptoms of various skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis by calming the skin and reducing inflammation.
4. Supports Collagen Production
Ashwagandha contains bioactive compounds that help promote collagen production, which is essential for maintaining healthy, youthful-looking skin. Collagen gives the skin its firmness, elasticity, and structure, making it an essential nutrient for maintaining skin health.
5. Protects Against UV Damage
It also has protective properties against UV damage caused by exposure to the sun. It can help prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of developing skin cancer by scavenging free radicals and protecting the skin from oxidative stress.
How to Use Ashwagandha for Skin
There are various ways to use Ashwagandha for skin benefits. Some popular methods include:
1. Taking it as a supplement
You can take Ashwagandha in capsule or powder form, typically 30 minutes before breakfast and dinner. A standard dosage is 500mg-1g per day, but it’s always best to consult your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
2. Adding it to food or beverages
You can add 1-2 teaspoons of Ashwagandha powder to your favorite smoothie recipe for added nutritional benefits. It can also be mixed with warm water, milk, or another preferred beverage and consumed daily as a tea. Add 1-2 teaspoons of the powder and stir well until dissolved.
3. Applying it topically
Ashwagandha extract can be applied directly to the skin in the form of a cream, serum, or oil to target specific skin concerns such as aging, inflammation, or hyperpigmentation. Look for products that contain standardized Ashwagandha extract with a minimum concentration of 0.5-1% withanoic acid.
Ashwagandha powder can also be applied topically as a face mask or added to bathwater for improved skin health benefits. To make a facial mask, mix 1-2 teaspoons of the powder with enough water or honey to form a paste and apply it to your face for 15-30 minutes before rinsing off.
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Always purchase high-quality Ashwagandha from reputable sources to ensure optimal potency and purity. Look for organic, sustainably sourced Ashwagandha products from trusted brands.
If you’re considering using Ashwagandha for skin benefits, it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider before starting a new supplement regimen, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications that may interact with Ashwagandha.
The information here is provided for informational purposes only. It is not presented with the intention of diagnosing or treating any disease or condition. It is in no way intended to substitute for the advice provided by your doctor or other health care professional. (Read more)
Sources:
A Study of Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Lotion on Facial Skin in Photoaged Healthy Adults – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10017910/