Ashwagandha, also known as winter cherry or by the botanical name Withania somnifera, is a health-supportive plant commonly used in Indian, Unani, and Ayurvedic medicine. The roots and berries are very popular in herbal supplements and tonics, have been used for an incredibly wide variety of purposes. For example, the plant has been used as a supplement for youthful rejuvenation, improved cognition, as a general adaptogen, and its effects in a number of areas are currently being researched.

If you are interested in learning about Ashwagandha, there is a wealth of information available online. To get you started, here are some of the possible benefits currently being investigated, as well as links to related studies.

1. Vitality and rejuvenation

Throughout history, Ashwagandha has always been associated with strength, vitality, recovery and rejuvenation. Often times, herbal practitioners of the day would suggest Ashwagandha to people who were recovering from an illness, or people who were low on energy, or even people who were experiencing occasional sleeplessness. The herb is seen as a Rasayana in Ayurveda, or a "body balancer" and "wellness extender." It is still commonly used to reset the body into a state of balance and energized equilibrium.

2. Possible stress-reducing properties

Double-blind studies have been conducted which have found promising results concerning the efficacy of Ashwagandha in reducing stress. Concentrated extracts of Ashwagandha root were found to balance levels of cortisol, the body's stress hormone, to a noticeable level compared to those who weren't taking it. Clinically-studied Ashwagandha can have a noticeable, calming influence on those under stress.

3. May have cognitive benefits

In Ayurvedic health practice, Ashwagandha is also used to support memory. Today, a number of studies are being conducted to investigate the effects of Ashwagandha on brain function. One such study on 20 healthy adult men found that those who took Ashwagandha performed better on tasks and displayed faster reaction time than the control group.

If you would like to try this ancient plant and see what it adds to your life, place an order for organic Ashwagandha from Himalaya today!