Four Main Benefits of Ashwagandha

Ayurveda’s Superfood- Ashwagandha
Four Main Benefits

Dear friends,
Ayurveda’s superfood, ashwagandha is a medicinal herb with plenty of perks for your health. One of its main benefits is to assist the body in managing stress, mainly reducing cortisol levels and modulating energy levels. This herb is classified under the category of “adaptogens” – a group of herbs that intelligently either increase energy or reduce anxiety and stress depending on what the body needs. It has the ability to adapt the body/mind to a more balanced state. It is considered a “warming” herb in Ayurveda and can accompany a Fall wellness regimen.

These are five main benefits backed by science:
1. This ancient medicinal plant used for over five thousand years in Ayurveda literally means” the energy of a horse”. It has specific compounds called withanolides,  which also have the ability to reduce tumors and inflammation.
2. It has been shown to reduce blood sugar levels.
3. It can reduce cortisol levels- the stress hormone.

4. It can reduce stress and anxiety. Ashwagandha has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety in both animal and human studies.

This information is only meant to educate on the benefits of the herb ashwagandha. It is not meant to treat or diagnose. Before taking any herb check with your integrative doctor or Ayurvedic health practitioner. If you are currently on medications please see a doctor before taking any herb.

What brand should I use?
Banyan Botanicals
Organics of India
Himalayan herbs


How long should I take ashwagandha? Consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner. Generally, herbs can be taken up to three months or until one finds results. It normally takes two weeks to notice the results.


 Read the first of my three series article in Natural Awakenings

The second of this three-part series is now available at Natural Awakenings Atlanta October issue