Benefits and Science of Ashwagandha

This ancient Ayurvedic medicinal herb has been used for thousands of years to support a reduction in stress levels and increased vitality. Ashwagandha, formally known as Withania somnifera, is a small bush with pale yellow flowers. It was originally found in India and Northern Africa, and most importantly is classified as an adaptogen, a word that has been receiving a lot of well-deserved attention lately. Adaptogens are a group of non-toxic herbal plants and root extracts most popularly known for supporting the body’s ability to deal with a variety of stressors more efficiently.

Ashwagandha helps to regulate cortisol (stress hormone) levels and releases physical tension in the body, giving the body time to recover and heal more quickly. In fact, ashwagandha has been used by athletes to aid physical recovery after a strenuous workout and to support increased physical performance and muscle mass growth.

Physical pain and mental stress may not be seemingly related, however, science shows that they are intricately intertwined. Due to the fact that stress directly interferes with the part of the brain that modulates and controls our pain experience, increased stress reduces the ability to manage and cope with physical pain. We can reduce the impact of that stress with the help of a powerful adaptogen like ashwagandha.

Ashwagandha health benefits

If you are familiar with the world of plant-based health and wellness, chances are you’ve heard of ashwagandha. With widespread reports of effective stress relief, rejuvenating properties, and other science-backed health benefits, it’s no wonder that this therapeutic herb is receiving so much positive attention.

Here is everything you need to know about ashwagandha and its celebrated healing properties.

What is ashwagandha?

The ashwagandha plant is one of the most coveted and powerful herbs in Ayurvedic medicine. It has been used for centuries for a variety of health purposes, like fighting stress, boosting endurance, and promoting an overall sense of calm.

In Sanskrit, the word Ashwagandha translates to “smell of the horse,” which refers to the plant’s unique aroma, and may refer to its resilience-enhancing properties.  Ashwagandha’s Latin name, Withania somnifera, means “to bear or induce sleep,” and is also known as Indian ginseng and winter cherry.

While the plant’s fruit and leaves offer valuable therapeutic properties, it is the ashwagandha root that is most commonly used to promote a healthy response to pain and inflammation. In addition to being an adaptogen, ashwagandha root also contains several beneficial compounds including steroidal lactones (called withanolides), alkaloids, fatty acids, and choline.

Ashwagandha and cortisol, the stress hormone

Ashwagandha is historically known for its restorative benefits and is also believed to be an effective remedy for enhancing the body’s response to stress by lowering the levels of our stress hormone, cortisol.

Why we use ashwagandha | healthy, beyond relief

The use of ashwagandha works naturally to support a rejuvenating sense of well-being overall. Many studies have been performed on the therapeutic benefits of this herb, and you’ll find 400 mg of the highest quality ashwagandha (KSM-66) in every dose of Pain Relief & Recovery.

Ashwagandha for relief:

• Enhances response to pain and inflammation
• Provides support for stress, nervousness, and worry
• Aids nervous system and endocrine system health

Ashwagandha for beyond relief:

• Supports circadian rhythm
• Protects immune system
• Improves brain health and mental cognition
• Supports cardiovascular health