The Benefits of Ashwagandha

The Benefits of Ashwagandha

Ashwgandha(Withania somnifera) has been used in Ayurveda for thousands of years as a rasayana (rejuvenative). It is a renowned adaptogenic herb, which means it is used to help the body resist physiological and psychological stress by adapting to the needs of the body. Deeply supportive of many tissues and body systems, including the immune system, the reproductive system, a healthy thyroid, and much more, ashwagandha is a wonderful herb to help nourish overall health and well-being.

Sanskrit word “ashwagandha” translates as “the smell of a horse,” (ashwa—horse, gandha—smell), which refers to its ability to bring you the strength and stamina of a horse while nourishing the female and male reproductive and nervous systems.

Its botanical name, Withania somnifera, also tells us something about this herb: somnifera translates as “sleep-inducing,” reflecting its relaxing and calming properties that bring us energy by supporting deeper rest.

Ashwagandha Benefits

Ashwagandha is used to tone, support, strengthen, and revitalize bodily functions. It has been revered over time for its dual capacity to energize and calm at the same time.

Maximizing the body’s ability to resist stress, it enables the body to reserve and sustain vital energy throughout the day while promoting sound, restful sleep at night.

This quality of ashwagandha makes it a prime supplement to use in the toning and rejuvenation process. In addition to its dual energizing and calming effect, ashwagandha offers a number of benefits:

• Supports a healthy immune system*
• Calms mental processes*
• Fosters healthy sleep patterns*
• Benefits a healthy reproductive system in both males and females*
• Supports sustained energy levels, strength, and vitality, including with physical activity*
• Supports a healthy back and joints*
• Supports healthy muscles*
• Promotes thyroid health*
• Promotes healthy functioning of the adrenals*

Research on Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha has become of interest to a number of researchers, particularly as it grows in popularity.

• It has been the subject of studies looking at the benefit on the immune system, including possible support of the immune system during radiation and chemotherapy.
• Used in combination with licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), safed musli (Chlorophytum borivillanum), and sesame seeds (Sesamum indicum), ashwagandha has been shown to support healthy cholesterol levels and antioxidant properties.
• It has been studied for its stress-relieving effects, demonstrating its ability to help support individuals in times of stress and anxiousness.
• A study using male participants has shown ashwagandha’s ability to improve energy, strength, and vitality.
• Ashwagandha has been shown to support muscle mass, strength, and recovery.

Ashwagandha Tea Recipe