For thousands of years, Ashwagandha has been used in India for rejuvenating the body and mind. Although the long name might look a little intimidating, it means “like a horse”, referring to both the smell of the fresh herb, and the way it helps to build vigor, stamina, and vitality.
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Despite the name, Ashwagandha is becoming increasingly more popular in the U.S. as a rejuvenating tonic herb that has a wide range of uses, most importantly as a tonic to heal the body from the effects of stress.
Remarkably, Ashwagandha has the ability to both energize and calm a person. When you’re under stress, especially long term stress, the constant strain on the adrenal glands can cause exhaustion while feeling wound up and unable to sleep. Ashwagandha nourishes the adrenal glands as well as the thyroid gland, which is also affected by stress.
Ashwagandha helps to fortify the nervous system and promote healthy sleep patterns. Research into the effects of this herb have shown that it helps relieve anxiety and depression as well as many medications.
This herb also appears to help in regenerating nerve cells, even in the brain. This is promising for so many nerve-related health issues, including dementia and Alzheimer’s. Other studies show that Ashwagandha has promise as a powerful antioxidant and anticarcinogenic herb, with its beneficial effects on the immune system.
Ashwagandha is popular with men to help build muscles, bone marrow, semen, and overall vitality. However, women can expect similar benefits when working on increasing overall energy and stamina.
If someone is weakened after a period of illness, Ashwagandha can help to restore health to people of all ages.
The easiest way to use Ashwagandha is to stir 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of the powder into water or milk and take that twice a day. You can also add 1/2 teaspoon Ashwagandha powder into smoothies. The flavor isn’t overly strong, so it’s easy to take mixed in with milk or a smoothie. If you know that you’re not going to take it like this but still want the benefits, take 2 capsules once or twice daily. You don’t have to use a lot of Ashwagandha to receive the benefits. With this herb, more is NOT better*.
Have you tried Ashwagandha yet? What do YOU think about it?
*If you have a chronic liver or immune condition, consult your practitioner before using. If you have a sensitivity to plants and foods from the Nightshade family (tomatoes, potatoes, etc.) consult your health practitioner.