Ashwagandha (also known as Withania or Indian Ginseng) is an adaptogen that has been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for many years. Adaptogens help your body adapt to stress by bringing balance to the nervous system. This in turn, helps you deal with the many emotional and physical stressors we are faced with every day.
Ashwagandha is a wonderful herb with a rich history of use in traditional medicine with several benefits for overall well-being. If you’re looking for natural ways to manage stress, improve sleep, or enhance cognitive function, Ashwagandha might be worth considering.
It has a positive effect on the endocrine, nervous, immune and cardiovascular systems by regulating your metabolism and helping you relax by calming how your brain responds to stress. Ashwagandha offers protection for your cells as an antioxidant and acts as an anti-inflammatory to reduce swelling.
Adaptogens are active ingredients in certain plants and mushrooms that may impact how your body deals with fatigue, anxiety and stress. When consumed adaptogens target specific stressors in your body.
There is a strong link between a stress and immune system health, and as we know stress can play havoc on the immune system. Loss of sleep, tension & fatigue are three common stress symptoms. These types of stress affect some immune cells, making it more difficult for the immune system to fight off infections.
Ashwagandha helps to bring about a sense of calm and balance and works to relax the nervous system. This enables your body to cope better with the effects of stress, which leads to a positive impact on your immune system.
It would be wise to remember that whilst adaptogens are so very helpful in assisting with mild anxiety, they aren’t the solution to long-term stress.
What are adaptogens?
Adaptogens are active ingredients in certain mushrooms and plants that may impact how your body deals with stress, anxiety and fatigue. Plants and mushrooms provide adaptogenic actions. When consumed, these plants target specific stressors in your body.
There are three qualities that plants must have to be an adaptogen:
- It is non-toxic when taken in normal doses.
- It helps your body cope with stress.
- It allows your body to return to balance (homeostasis).
Adaptogens work as a temporary bandage but aren’t the solution to long-term stress.
Incorporating into your routine
Ashwagandha is available in many forms, including capsules, powders, and tinctures. It’s essential to choose a high-quality product from a reputable source.
I use InnerCalm Adaptogenic De-Stress Powder. It’s formulated with sustainably sourced Ashwagandha plus sustainably sourced Saffron to help you achieve a balanced mindset.
It also features L-theanine, a tea-leaf derived amino acid. L-theanine helps to temporarily promote a sense of calm and relaxation.
Just mix one scoop into any beverage, drink cold or warm. It comes in both Peach Green Tea and Pink Lemonade flavours. You’ll love how tastes and how it quiets your mind!
