Tense shoulders? Overwhelmed or mentally drained? Just generally... exhausted?

Stress affects all of us in different ways. And while there’s no such thing as a quick fix, ashwagandha may help you in those “arrghh!” thoughts. 

Why Everyone’s Talking About Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is one of the most popular herbal supplements to hit the shelves in recent years - but what the heck is it? And what could it do for you?

Actually, ashwagandha isn’t new at all. It’s been used in traditional herbal practice for more than 3,000 years. Famed for supporting energy production, calming the mind, and supporting sleep, this little shrub has only recently been recognised by modern science (and, as a result, the supplement industry!)

A quick 101 on how the stress response works: when you’re under pressure,  your body thinks a threat is near, so it releases certain hormones (such as cortisol and adrenaline) to help you either fight the threat or flee from it. While this worked well for our ancestors (who did have to run away from saber-tooth tigers), our stressors today are more likely to be related to work, finances, people, and well, a billion other things. In these cases, our stress hormones just make us feel wired, worried, and drained. 

But when that stress response is better supported, your body isn’t using up all its energy to keep you on edge. Instead, energy is directed to the areas where you need it most, like your brain and muscles.

And that’s where ashwagandha comes in. 

Ashwagandha Benefits 

Stress and energy support

The root, leaves, and berries of the ashwagandha plant contain various bioactive compounds that support everyday stress signals efficiently. 

The most important of these compounds are withanolides, which have been found to support the nervous system, energy levels, and everyday resilience. In other words, it helps support a calmer response to stress and worry.

Healthy sleep

Going to bed exhausted only to find your brain won’t shut off?
Ashwagandha’s botanical name, ‘Withania somnifera’, literally translates to “sleep-inducing”, because of its long use in supporting restful sleep. Some studies suggest ashwagandha may support sleep quality and help you fall asleep at night.

Healthy Energy 

Supporting a balanced stress response may help the body use energy efficiently throughout the day. Ashwagandha is especially popular with athletes, gym junkies, or anyone who finds their get-up-and-go is flagging. 

Ashwagandha Benefits for Men 

• Supports male hormonal balance
  Some research suggests ashwagandha may support aspects of male reproductive health and hormonal balance.
  

• Athletic performance
  Ashwagandha literally translates to “smell of the horse” - not just because of its distinctive smell, but its benefits in supporting physical strength.
  Physically active men often use ashwagandha as part of their wellness routine to support their training, recovery, and overall vitality.
  
  

Ashwangdha  Benefits for Women

• Hormonal balance support across different life stages
  One of ashwagandha’s hero qualities is its traditional use in supporting women during times of hormonal change. It may help to soothe the mind and support balanced mood during both PMS and perimenopause.
  

• Supports healthy sexual function
  It’s not just men who benefit from this little herb! Ashwagandha is also traditionally used to support mood and overall wellbeing, which can play a role in healthy libido.
  

Choosing your Ashwagandha Supplement

So, now that you know what it is, how should you take it?

One thing you should know about herbal supplements is that they are available as either a standardised extract or whole root powder. Whole root powders contain the natural plant material, while standardised extracts (such as KSM-66® and Sensoril®) are concentrated to provide a consistent amount of key compounds in one dose.

Ashwagandha is available in capsules, powders, tinctures, and gummies. 

Capsules

Convenient and easy to take, capsules provide a specific dosage each day and you can increase your intake during times of stress.

me today Ashwagandha 3000 3000 provides a high-potency dose equivalent to 12 mg of active compound.

Bioglan Ashwagandha capsules contain Sensoril®, a clinically studied extract made from ashwagandha root and leaves.

You’ll also find some formulas with other nutrients for added benefits.  Nature's Sunshine Ashwagandha Herbal Blend combines ashwagandha with herbs such as bacopa, schisandra, and rhodiola to support vitality and endurance.

My Health Ashwagandha VegeCaps include vitamin B5 and Siberian ginseng to support energy and mental clarity.

Tinctures and drops 

Tinctures and drops are a concentrated liquid extract of the ashwagandha leaves and root. Tinctures are a concentrated liquid herbal extract and are easy to take. Just add to smoothies or juice, or use the dropper directly into your mouth. Great for people who don’t like swallowing capsules! 

Wanderlust Ashwagandha Drops provide a liquid herbal extract that can be taken directly on the tongue or mixed into water or juice. 

Gummies

Gummies are one of the most popular ways to take ashwagandha - and not just because they’re delicious! Gummies are easy to keep in your bag or on your desk and take on the go. Great for people new to supplements or those who prefer a low dose. 

SUP Ashwagandha & Chill Gummies are 99% sugar free and contain the patented Sensoril® ashwagandha extract. 

GOLI Ashwagandha Gummies contain the patented KSM-66® extract plus vitamin D to support a healthy immune system. 

Pro Vitamin Co. Ashwagandha+ Gummies contain L-theanine and passionflower to support healthy sleep and feelings of calm. 

A final note…

Remember, ashwagandha is best used as part of a holistic approach to your wellbeing. Eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly alongside any supplement routine is one of the best ways to support your physical and mental health during times of stress. 

If you have any health conditions or are taking medications, speak with your healthcare professional before using ashwagandha. Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. 

Any other questions? Just get in touch! The Bargain Chemist team totally understands what stress feels like - so ask away.

Always read the label and use as directed. If symptoms persist see your healthcare professional.