What Is Ashwagandha and What Are Its Benefits?

If you’ve ever wandered down the supplement aisle at your local drug store or health food store, you may have encountered ashwagandha. But what exactly is this supplement, and how can it benefit you? Keep reading to find out!

What Is Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha, also known as “Indian ginseng” or “winter cherry,” is an evergreen shrub native to India, the Middle East, and North Africa. It has been used in ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years to reduce and regulate bodily stress and restore normal physiological functions. Here are some of the benefits of ashwagandha supplements.

Relieves Stress and Anxiety

Ashwagandha is known for its stress-relieving properties. One way the adaptogenic herb does this is by reducing cortisol, the stress-producing hormone, in the bloodstream.

Boosts Energy Levels

Ashwagandha can boost energy by increasing stamina and reducing fatigue. Increased energy levels can also improve exercise and sleep.

Improves Sleep

Speaking of sleep, ashwagandha has been used for decades as a natural way to help people fall asleep and improve sleep quality, primarily due to triethylene glycol, an active component in ashwagandha that induces sleep. The process is seamless because it naturally enhances communication between the adrenals and the brain’s control center.

Improves Your Sex Life

When stress is high, your sex drive can diminish. Ashwagandha is not only effective at relieving unnecessary stress but also has been used as an aphrodisiac. In women specifically, it has shown a range of benefits like increases in libido, sexual arousal, lubrication, orgasms, and the overall sexual experience.

Improves Athletic Performance

Some recent research suggests that ashwagandha may be a worthwhile supplement for athletes. Physical performance, including strength and oxygen intake, has also improved after regular use.

Weight Management

Stress and overeating often go hand in hand. So when your stress improves, it becomes easier to achieve your wellness goals. Ashwagandha has been shown to lessen cravings, allowing people to stick to a healthy diet without feeling tempted.

Boosts Brain Health

Ashwagandha is thought to improve attention, reaction time, and cognition. If Alzheimer’s or dementia runs in your family, this could be a great supplement to stock up on. Though there’s no verifiable documentation on this ashwagandha factor yet, that doesn’t mean you can’t try it.

Have you tried taking ashwagandha? Share your experience with us in the comments below!