Supplement Spotlight: Ashwagandha

Even though ashwagandha has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years, this herb has gained notoriety in the past few decades making it the most popular adaptogen that exists.

In case you missed our article on adaptogens, they are plant based supplements that encourage hemostasis and assist in stabilizing the various internal and external stressors that impact our body. Ashwagandha, also commonly known as Indian ginseng, does just that and so much more.

Benefits of Ashwagandha

As the most researched adaptogen, ashwagandha has a very long list of benefits impacting the neurological, endocrine, immune and reproductive systems in our body. Here are just a few of the benefits and reasons as to why this supplement is worth the hype.

Fights Anxiety, Stress and Depression

As a proven natural way to help treat anti-anxiety and antidepressant, ashwagandha is a powerful mood stabilizer.

Boosts Endurance and Stamina

Known for increasing stamina and endurance, ashwagandha helps to improve the brain’s function and focus while decreasing stress hormones, thereby allowing the body to improve its overall performance.

Helps Fertility and Sexual Function

This natural aphrodisiac not only helps to increase our sex drive but can also improve testosterone levels and male fertility issues.

Enhances Muscle Strength

Ashwagandha is a great natural choice for people suffering from joint pain or rheumatoid arthritis since it helps increase muscle mass and strength.

Aids with Optimal Thyroid Function

If you have an under-active thyroid, then ashwagandha might be for you since it has the ability to naturally improve and balance the body’s thyroid levels.

Increases Immunity and Defends Against Disease and Infections

As a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, ashwagandha helps to protect the body against free radicals, diseases and infections which thereby helps to increase the body’s overall immunity.

Normalizes Blood Sugar Levels

Due to the presence of flavonoids, ashwagandha is known to help balance blood sugar levels and can be potentially helpful for people suffering from diabetes.

Although these are only a handful of the many benefits of ashwagandha, it gives you an idea just how incredible and powerful this supplement is.

Found in any health food store, ashwagandha comes in several forms including capsules, powder, tinctures or even tea. Our preference is the capsules since the flavor and smell can be quite strong although we love the ashwagandha powder from St. Francis Herb Farm or Sun Potion because they are extremely high quality products which is beyond important when purchasing ashwagandha.

Although there are not many side effects associated with this adaptogen, they are still possible and can include an upset stomach or diarrhea. It’s also not recommended for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding. The dosage can depend on the reason you need it, so it’s always best to speak to a naturopath or health practitioner to make sure you are doing what is best for your body.