5 Reasons to Take the Stress-Fighting Herb Ashwagandha

Paula Gallagher on
Ashwagandha

Feeling stressed is common. And while some stress can be beneficial (think running away from danger, studying for a test), constant or chronic stress can have many negative health impacts, including sleeplessness, brain fog, increased blood pressure, and much more.

Adaptogenic herbs are one way to help your body deal with constant stress. Along with good diet and lifestyle practices, adaptogenic herbs can help your body balance or adapt its response to stress.

Ashwagandha, also called Indian ginseng or winter cherry, is a traditional Indian herb that has been used for centuries for energy, stress and immune system support. This adaptogenic herb has shown promising benefits in so many areas of health that it will be the subject of a new research trial looking at its use in promoting recovery from COVID-19. Ashwagandha is now even available

Sources of stress are everywhere these days. If your life has been feeling extra hectic, or you need some support in any of these other areas, you may want to try ashwagandha, which is even available in the popular form of gummies!

Why Take Ashwagandha?

1. Stress

Chronic stress is linked to many health issues, including hormone disruption, weight gain, sleep problems, anxiety, low mood and blood sugar swings. Over time, this unmanaged stress can begin to impact your immune system, digestion and cardiovascular health, sometimes leading to serious complications.

Many studies have investigated the benefits and links between ashwagandha root and stress. One study found that those who took ashwagandha supplements daily for 60 days reported reductions in feelings of stress, plus improved mental well-being.

2. Sleep

Research has shown the benefits of ashwagandha when it comes to sleep. One recent study confirms that ashwagandha root extract can improve sleep quality and can help in managing insomnia. Who couldn’t use a better night’s sleep?

3. Brain health

Instead of reaching for yet another cup of coffee to boost your energy and focus, consider trying ashwagandha. Research has found that ashwagandha may improve memory and cognitive function for those with mild cognitive impairment.

4. Cardiovascular

Ashwagandha may even help improve muscle performance. One study of healthy young adults found that the participants were faster and stronger during exercise after taking ashwagandha daily for 8 weeks. The exercisers also took in more oxygen when they breathed.

5. Immune system

Ongoing research on different medicinal plants and/or their bioactive compounds, including ashwagandha, have demonstrated that they may have inhibitory effects against SARS-CoV-2, and may even help in fighting the virus by rejuvenating the immune system.

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