Ashwagandha

Ashwaganda is a herb that fits under the category of adaptogens. Adaptogens help the body adapt and become more resilient to physiological and psychological stressors, something we could all use in today's fast-paced society!

Though relatively new to the Western world of medicine, traditional Chinese and eastern medicine have used these herbs for centuries. 

Whether you're a student trying to get through exams, a high-level executive working long hours, an athlete training for competition, or simply just feeling run down - adaptogens can help.

Though adaptogens can have an overall tonifying effect on the body they can also provide benefits that target specific organ systems such as the circulatory, respiratory, digestive, reproductive, and nervous systems.

Adaptogens do take some time to work their magic so it can take a few weeks before noticeable effects. However they should not be taken as a solution to stress but instead an addition to diet and lifestyle changes. 

What is Ashwagandha?

This botanical helps to relax and rejuvenate the body and increase resistance to stress.

Also known as the King of Ayurvedic herbs or Indian Ginseng, Ashwagandha is one of the most popular of the adaptogens, originating from India and said to be used for over 3,000 years. Ashwagandha is Sanskrit for “smell of the horse”, due to its rather potent smell and ability to increase strength and stamina.

On the other hand, its botanical name, Withania somnifera, translates to “sleep-inducing,” which illustrates its relaxing and calming properties that promote deeper quality sleep and help to calm an overactive mind.

It has been shown to reduce inflammation, calm the mind, lower blood pressure, and enhance the activity of immune cells known as natural killer cells that may help fight off infections and even cancer. Ashwagandha is the only adaptogen proven to enhance thyroid function, increasing serum concentrations of the hormones T3 and T4. Its anti-inflammatory effects may also help relieve pain associated with rheumatoid and osteoarthritis.

Benefits of ashwagandha:

• Reducing stress and anxiety

• Decreasing inflammation

• Improving sleep quality and reducing insomnia

• Supporting immune function

• Improving blood glucose and cholesterol levels

• Increasing stamina and endurance as well as muscle mass

• Reducing stress and anxiety

• Improving libido 

• Lowering the stress-hormone cortisol

• Improving inflammatory related joint pain and aches

• Improving memory formation

• Promoting mental clarity

• Improving thyroid function 

• Aiding with neurodegenerative diseases

Ashwagandha supplementation

Capsule: the most popular form of consumption due to convenience, ashwagandha capsules typically contain the root extract but may also contain the leaves. When reading the label the withanolide content should range from 1 to 10 percent.We always recommend starting small and working your way up as needed, always follow the guidelines on the label or recommendations from your health-care provider.

Liquid: Also known as tinctures, this is a more concentrated form of the herb using a combination of the extracted root, water and alcohol.

With tinctures, only a small amount is needed and it is quickly absorbed straight into the bloodstream meaning the effects will be quicker than capsules. Tinctures also tend to preserve and maintain their therapeutic properties for longer periods of time. Tinctures are a great alternative to provide fast acting benefits and combat "pill fatigue" if you are already taking multiple pills. 

Powder: can be added to food and beverages, but we will want you it’s not for the faint of heart! As the powder does have quite a potent taste, it will likely need to be masked by certain ingredients, for example in a smoothie or hot beverage.

Traditionally used as a powder and combined with honey and warm water or milk it can be a great bedtime elixir to help you drift off into a peaceful sleep.

You can buy ashwagandha online at Vitasave.ca in various forms such as liquid, pill, or powder. 

Best Ashwagandha Supplements

Organic Traditions Ashwagandha Powder

Ashwagandha is also known as “The Indian Ginseng” because its actions and uses are similar to those of Chinese Ginseng. As an adaptogenic herb, it is one of the most commonly used roots in Traditional Ayurvedic Medicine for increased stamina. It has also been traditionally used to promote a calm mind and encourage restful sleep. 

Benefits:

• Certified Organic, Gluten-Free, Kosher, Vegan, Non-GMO, Raw 
• Gentle, Rejuvenating and Strengthening Ayurvedic Tonic 
• Bitter, astringent and sweet taste profile 
• No added flavors, fillers, preservatives, additives, sweeteners, carriers, stabilizers or excipients
  
  

Botanica Ashwagandha Liquid Herb

Hectic days can stress the body and mind which in turn affect the immune and nervous systems and run you down. Botanica Ashwagandha Liquid Herb is an adaptogenic herb used to restore nervous and immune system health to normalize mood and energy levels. Because sometimes we need a little help to prevent stress from getting the better of us.

Benefits:

• Supports mental & physical stamina
• Helps the body adapt to stressful situations
• Stops the depletion of Vitamin C

St. Francis Herb Farm Ashwagandha Capsules

Ashwagandha has been called India’s wonder herb and is one of the most renowned herbal tonics and adaptogens in the world. It enjoys a long and distinguished history of use in Ayurvedic medicine, the traditional medical system of India.

Benefits:

• Reduces anxiety and stress, improving stamina and brain function
• Provides a calming or relaxing effect
• Strengthens the body’s vitality and increases its resilience in the face of infection
• Anti-inflammatory
• Aphrodisiac

All information is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. Always consult your physician or healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.