Ashwagandha is an adaptogen, which means it helps the body adapt to stress. This is important for PCOS sufferers because one of the main causes of PCOS is stress. When the body is stressed, it produces more of the hormone cortisol. This hormone can disrupt the production of other hormones, leading to the symptoms of PCOS. By reducing stress levels, ashwagandha can help reduce the symptoms of PCOS.
In addition to reducing stress levels, ashwagandha has also been shown to improve insulin sensitivity. Insulin resistance is common in women with PCOS and can lead to weight gain and type 2 diabetes. By improving insulin sensitivity, ashwagandha can help prevent these complications.
Finally, ashwagandha has also been shown to improve fertility in women with PCOS. One study showed that after three months of treatment with ashwagandha, 62% of women with PCOS had ovulated compared to just 16% of women who did not take the herb.
If you suffer from PCOS, you may want to consider adding ashwagandha to your treatment plan. This herb has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries and has been shown to reduce stress levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and improve fertility.