You’ve Never Heard Of Ashwagandha, But It’s Insanely Good For You
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Ayurvedic medicine, or Ayurveda, is one of the oldest holistic (focused on the whole body) healing systems. This ancient practice — Ayur meaning life and Veda, science or knowledge — was developed in India around 3,000 years ago and it continues to be one of the world’s most powerful mind-body health systems. This approach usually involves meditation as a powerful tool to balance the mind and body.
Coming out of cold season, it’s important to know the right tools for fighting off any lingering illnesses. Ashwagandha, or Indian ginseng, is one of the more powerful herbs in Ayurvedic healing and comes with a wealth of restorative benefits. In Sanskrit (which is the ancient language of Hinduism) the herb translates to “the smell of a horse,” which is proven through the herb’s strength and ability to help people build up their immune systems after they’re sick.
The herb itself is in the tomato family with oval shaped leaves, yellowish flowers and it bears red fruits that are around the size of a blueberry. Ashwagandha is native to the dry regions of northern Africa, Indian and the Middle East, and today it also grows in regions of the U.S. with mild climates.
Hundreds of studies have been done on the healing aspects of this botanical. You can use ashwagandha to help relieve stress, fatigue, lack of energy, your cholesterol, protect your immune system and difficulty focusing. One of the most significant aspects of the powerful ingredient is that it belongs to a specific class called adaptogenic herbs. Adaptogens are made up of amino acids, vitamins and herbs that help to normalize physiological function and help your body cope with internal stresses like anxiety and insomnia and external factors like toxins that are present in the environment.
The most common way to incorporate this magical herb into your diet is as a supplement in capsule form. Research shows you should be taking 600 to 1000 mg twice a day. You can also take it in powder form and sprinkle it in a latte or mix it into your tea. It’s a no-brainer — time to introduce this impressive herb into your daily routine.
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