Ashwagandha - What are it's health benefits?

Ashwagandha has recently become incredibly popular within the health and fitness industry and for good reason. Ashwagandha has a large number of health benefits across a variety of areas.
 
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is commonly known as Indian ginseng or winter cherry, and it is one of the most important herbs used in Ayurveda (Indian medicine developed in ancient times). It’s classified as an "adaptogen," meaning that it can help your body manage stress as well as providing many other benefits for your body and brain. It has been used for over 3,000 years to relieve stress, increase energy levels and improve concentration.
 

What are the main benefits of supplementing Ashwagandha?

Relieve stress

With Ashwagandha being an adaptogen there are many studies which show the use of the herb can have very beneficial effects on reducing stress. By reducing the stress you are also able to contribute to reducing depression, anxiety, immunity and even heart disease.
 

Reduced Cortisol

Ashwagandha plays a vital role in reducing cortisol levels, the stress hormone which is associated with the effects of stress. High levels of cortisol can have a number of number negative effects including blood glucose regulation, body composition, hormone balance, sleep, immune function and cognitive health. Therefore being able to reduce cortisol through the use of Ashwagandha can have very beneficial physiological effects.  
 
 

Supports Energy Levels:

Supplementing Ashwagandha has also been shown to support normal energy metabolism. Ashwagandha has been associated with an increase in serun t4, which is linked to enhancing thyroid function. Enhancing thyroid function promotes better energy levels as well as supporting mood and healthy immune function. 
 
 

Supports immune function:

By increasing energy and stress management there are significant benefits for immune health. Many studies show that increased stress can significantly reduce the ability to fight off infection. Supplementing ashwagandha not only reduces stress to benefit the immune system but it also stimulates immune system cells. 
 

Increased testosterone levels and support sexual function

Ashwagandha has been shown to have positive effects on libido and sexual performance as well as even in some cases increasing fertility. The ashwagandha herb helps to regulate hormones and in particular enhancing testosterone levels in men. 
 
 

Improved brain function and memory

We are not done yet with Ashwagandha many health benefits! The herb has also been shown to enhance memory and cognitive functions in the human brain. Studies have delivered results that show supplementing 300mg of Ashwagandha twice a day can have noticeable improvements in immediate and long-term memory.
 
 

How much Ashwagandha should you be taking?

General dosages start at 250mg and range up to 3g. We recommend supplementing 600mg a day in 2 300mg dosages in order to feel the benefits that ashwagandha boasts. Ashwagandha is available here at CSN