Ashwagandha, an herbal supplement used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine, has been getting a lot of attention lately for its wide variety of health benefits. The ashwagandha plant grows natively in India, North Africa and the Middle East and its root is what is most often used in modern supplements. Known traditionally for its dual rejuvenating and restorative properties, ashwagandha supports immune function, healthy stress response, learning and memory, regular sleep cycles and sustained energy levels. Essentially, it helps in getting your body systems back into balance.
Ashwagandha is especially known for its powerful effects as an adaptogen. Adaptogens help regulate our response to both physiological and psychological stressors. Chronic stress, even in moderate amounts, eventually takes its toll on our nervous system and can lead to a cascade of health problems including fatigue, hormone imbalance and weight gain. Ashwagandha helps to protect the nervous system, therefore acting as a preventative as well as a restorative force of healing.
Ashwagandha is traditionally used as a powder added to warm milk with honey, but these days is more often taken as a daily tablet. Curious if ashwagandha’s benefits could help you? Dosage is dependent on your specific condition, so it’s best to work with a trained healthcare professional on how much to take. We now carry it in our supplement dispensary! Call or ask about it at your next appointment.
Written by Flannery, student intern
References:
“The Benefits of Ashwagandha.” Ashwagandha Health Benefits – Ayurvedic Herbs. Banyan Botanicals, 10 Feb. 2015. Web. 28 Jan. 2017. https://www.banyanbotanicals.com/info/ayurvedic-living/living-ayurveda/herbs/ashwagandha/
Saunders, Jenna. “What Is Ashwagandha?” The Chopra Center. N.p., 27 Jan. 2017. Web. 28 Jan. 2017. http://www.chopra.com/articles/what-is-ashwagandha.
