Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a shrub native to dry subtropical regions of Asia and Africa. It’s part of the nightshade family and has been used as a medicinal herb in these regions since time immemorial. Traditional healing systems like Ayurveda have been using Ashwagandha for 5,000 years.
Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please consult your health care practitioner before adding any new herbs to your wellness routine.
Folklore
Ashwagandha's name is made up of two Sanskrit words. Ashwa means “horse” and gandha means “smell.” Some say this name comes from the horse-like smell the herb emits, while others say it symbolizes the strength of a horse.
Historical Use
This herb is unique in that it’s both a tonic and a sedative. It gives us energy while simultaneously calming us down. Over the course of history, Ashwagandha has been used to treat many different ailments.
Ayurvedic practitioners have prescribed it for building vitality, stamina, immunity, fertility and libido. Ashwagandha is also traditionally used to treat stress and support brain health. Texts from the 14th century show preparations of Ashwagandha in syrups, powders, tinctures and even ghee.
The Benefits of Ashwagandha
Stress and fatigue are ever-prevalent in our fast-paced world. Fortunately, there is a large body of modern research singing the praises of Ashwagandha.
Soothe Stress
Ashwagandha can boost our resilience to stress. One double-blind study had participants take either 2 Ashwagandha capsules per day or 2 placebos for 60 days. Those taking Ashwagandha saw a 44% reduction in their perceived stress, compared to a 5.5% reduction in the placebo group. The Ashwagandha group also saw a 28% drop in cortisol levels, compared to an 8% drop in the placebo group (1).
Improve Memory
In a study done on adults struggling with cognitive impairment, Ashwagandha proved helpful. Participants took either 300mg of Ashwagandha or a placebo twice per day for 8 weeks. The Ashwagandha group saw immediate and sustained improvements in memory, executive function, focus and information processing (2).
Enhance Performance
Ashwagandha has an anabolic effect. This means it gives our cells access to energy and protects them from energy depletion (3). In a 2012 study, 40 elite Indian cyclists were given either 500mg of Ashwagandha or a placebo twice daily for 8 weeks. There was a significant improvement in V02 max*, along with the time it took them to get exhausted. The placebo group showed no improvement from their baseline measurements (4).
*V02 max refers to the maximum amount of oxygen you can utilize during exercise. Improving this measurement means there is an increase in endurance.
Our Ashwagandha Offerings
This restorative adaptogen is a wonderful herbal ally year-round. We love the benefits Ashwagandha has to offer and include it in several of our formulations.
Artisan Tea
Cozy up with our Adapt Artisan Tea, featuring grounding Ashwagandha and Reishi mushroom to help you restore balance with each sip.
Herbal Lattes
Relax and reset with our Golden Mylk Herbal Latte, featuring Ashwagandha, Turkey Tail and warming spices.
Tincture Blends
Enhance well-being and calm your nerves with our Uplifted Spirits Tincture, featuring Ashwagandha, St. John’s Wort and other soothing herbs.
Single Herb Tinctures
Support your nervous system with our bioavailable Ashwagandha Tincture.
