Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic medicinal herb, known botanically as Withania Somnifera. Also commonly called Indian ginseng, winter cherry or poison gooseberry. In Ayurvedic medicine it is often used to support the spleen and stomach. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) it is called Huang Qi and is predominantly used to boost immunity.
Ashwagandha is a powerful and multipurpose adaptogen. It protects the immune system by helping the body deal with stress, anxiety and insomnia, creating balance and homeostasis. It also helps stabilise the neurological and endocrine systems as well as promote energy. It is this balancing and stabilising effect that helps improve the circadian rhythms and metabolic efficiency, therefore assisting with sleep disorders.
Ashwagandha supports the adrenal glands, which are so often over taxed and out of balance. The adrenal glands main function is to produce hormones in the form of cortisol, that stabilise blood sugars. Adrenal fatigue is frequently associated with insomnia because the glands are exhausted, and no longer able to produce enough hormones to deal with stress burdening the body. And this is when we lay awake at night for hours waiting for sleep that never comes.
Sleep is so important for the body because this is when the necessary healing, restoring and repairing takes place. While our minds are in dreamland, the body is busy rebuilding cells so we can get up and do it all again, with energy and vitality.
It is the root of the plant that is used in powder or capsule form. Ashwagandha is known to create a sense of calm and sometimes brings on sleepiness, so is often taken at night to promote a restful sleep.
Adaptogenic herbs are non-toxic and safe to take regularly. However, if you are unsure seek advice from your medical practitioner or naturopath..
Choose wisely. Live vibrantly.
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