If it feels like ashwagandha is everywhere you look, that’s because it is! The adaptogenic ingredient has become one of the most popular go-tos in the supplement world, showing up in trendy non-alcoholic seltzers to promote calm, stress-reducing gummies, powders, and more.*
There’s a lot of information about this herb floating around on the internet, with some of it being true and a lot being rumors, but what do you really need to know about ashwagandha? It can be overwhelming to navigate a lot of information about a trendy supplement or the It herb everyone is taking, so here’s what you should know about ashwagandha and how to incorporate it into your routine if you’ve been experiencing more stress than normal or want to get a handle on your stress levels once and for all.
The history of ashwagandha.
Ashwagandha was first popularized via Ayurveda, the ancient healing system in India that dates back to 6000 BC. The first recorded use of ashwagandha root for healing dates back to 600 AD.
The plant itself is a small shrub with the scientific name Withania somnifera, and it’s commonly found in India and Africa. The root is harvested for its beneficial properties. Ashwagandha has been used in teas, tonics, and many more preparations, but today it’s most commonly found in capsule or gummy form.
What it does.
Though benefit claims may vary depending on the product and dosage, ashwagandha is most commonly known for its stress-reducing abilities.* It works as an adaptogen to help your body adapt to stress over time, so you’re more easily able to deal with trying moments and tough times.* When you take ashwagandha on a regular basis, you may find you can more easily cope with challenges and find tranquility.*
Ashwagandha’s effects can vary depending on your stress levels, diet, age, gender, and hormones. Some people may feel it working in just a few days, while it may take a few weeks for others.