The enormous popularity of dietary supplements is not only, as some claim, the result of fashion and of the modern lifestyle, but above all the result of unprecedented scientific development. More and more research uncovers the power of particular plant substances, and the pharmaceutical market immediately takes advantage of this, creating preparations containing a specific group of substances, particularly useful in one or another health situation. Such exceptionally valuable plant substances discovered by science are vitanolides.
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Vitanolides – what are they?
Vitanolides are biologically active compounds found in plants and having beneficial effects on the body in many areas. They have anticancer, antibacterial, antiseptic effects, they stabilize mood and lower blood pressure. The compounds forming them are also adaptogenic, which means that they strengthen the body’s resistance to stressful situations. A valuable source of vitanolides is an extremely popular plant originating from India – Ashwagandha, or witania sluggish, characterized by stimulating adaptive mechanisms of the organism.
Vitanolides – properties and effects
The range of vitanolides’ properties is very broad, as it includes much more than the anti-stress and anti-depressive effects associated with these substances. The best known compound belonging to this group is vitamin A. It has strong anti-cancer properties, especially with regard to gastrointestinal cancer, thyroid cancer, prostate cancer, melanoma and lymphoid leukemia.
Not only does it contribute to the destruction of cancer cells, but it also inhibits the formation of new blood vessels in the affected area, thus, by reducing the blood supply, it limits the multiplication and growth of new cancer cells.
In addition, vitanolides are distinguished by excellent antibacterial and disinfectant properties.
A natural source of many bioactive compounds is Ashwagandha, a plant called Indian ginseng. Its unique properties result from the presence of such substances as glycosidic sitoindosides or steroidal lactones, i.e. vitanolides.
This plant shows strong adaptogenic qualities, restoring stability and natural balance in the functioning of important systems and organs. Similarly to other adaptogens, vitania has a comprehensive, positive impact on the body.
It strengthens the immune system by increasing the body’s ability to adapt to adverse conditions and minimizing the risk of disease. Glycoside vitanolides not only exhibit antioxidant and hypotensive properties, but also antidepressant, anti-stress and protective properties with respect to the most important organs – heart, liver, pancreas, kidneys.
Vitania can provide significant support to conventional medicine in the treatment of cancer, hypertension, inflammation. In these types of cases, however, you should absolutely consult Ashwagandha supplementation with your doctor.
See also: Moringa leaves
Vitanolides – dosage, opinions
The most valuable source of vitanolides, Ashwagandha, is in supplement form widely available in pharmacies and health food stores.
It can be recommended to people struggling with mental disorders – depression, anxiety, phobias, stress, memory problems and sleep problems such as insomnia.
The properties of vitanolides are also used by athletes after intensive exercise as they help restore the natural balance in the body, alleviate stress and by increasing the synthesis of nitric oxide, they promote muscle regeneration and reconstruction, contributing to improved performance.
The product should be taken as recommended by the manufacturer, usually a maximum of 1-2 tablets per day. It should not be taken by pregnant or breastfeeding women, people suffering from serious diseases or those who are constantly taking certain medications.
Ashwagandha as a real treasury of beneficial active substances, including primarily vitanolides, generally enjoys a very good opinion, especially as a supplement supporting the fight against stress and strengthening the general condition of the body. Disappointed, as a rule, are those consumers who expect immediate results, while it is known that natural plant medicines require patience above all.
Read also: Versatile Chinese citronella. Discover its magical power!
