Exploring Ashwagandha with Lydia

Ashwagandha is a supplement that you might be hearing a lot about lately, but what is it? Lydia explains this amazing "apoptogenic" herb in this video:

As she explained, it is useful for:

• Brain function, focus, and clarity
• Stress reduction to promote relaxation
• Balances cortisol, the hormone produced to manage stress
• Has potential anti-cancer properties

​It also has these properties:

• Anti-inflammatory
• Anti-depressant
• Fertility and testosterone booster in men
• Increases muscle mass and strength 
• Supports healthy blood sugar and cholesterol levels

Ashwagandha can be taken at night to help promote restfulness, making it easier to sleep. It can also be taken during the day during periods of high stress to help manage the stress.

While it promotes relaxation, it is not necessarily a "downer." Instead, it is referred to as an "adaptogen," a type of herb that helps you adapt to stress. This is because of how it balances the hormone cortisol, a stress hormone. If your cortisol is high from acute stress, it reduces it. If your cortisol is low from chronic stress, it helps raise it. When your stress hormones are in balance you will no longer be burdened with that agitated "fight or flight" feeling that drains you, stimulates you, and reduces your mental clarity. You will feel more like your anxiety and worries are lifted so that you can think clearly and use your own energy again. 

You can find it on its own in our herb aisle and in our bulk department, as you see in Lydia's video. It is also found in blends for adrenal health and sleep support. 

​Further Reading and Sources:

12 Proven Health Benefits of Ashwagandha (healthline.com)
​Ashwagandha | A Complete Guide (menshealth.com)

​Authors: Sarah Langer and Lydia Davis