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Ashwagandha sure sounds exotic, but what exactly is this natural supplement that is booming in popularity, and more importantly, how can it help with your health and beauty goals? Scientifically known as Withania Somnifera, the ayurvedic natural medicine has its roots in medicinal use in India. The herb is a natural supplement used to boost cognitive ability and overall energy. Apart from this, ashwagandha also assists in the production of compounds that help to enrich the skin, and natural skin oils. These properties help to tone down wrinkles and maintain the suppleness and hydration of your skin. It also assists in your body’s collagen production, a well-known compound sought for its anti-aging qualities in skincare. Taking this powerful herb will leave your skin looking younger, firmer, and glowier, while providing your brain and body with a natural boost of energy.
The ancient shrub is known for its distinct smell, loosely translating from Sanskrit into ‘smell of horse’. Don’t let this fact fool you, as modern ashwagandha is much less pungent both in taste and smell. Found predominantly in India, the Middle East, and Northern Africa, the root and berry of ashwagandha have been used since ancient times for medicinal purposes. Originally consumed in powder form and mixed into a paste, you can now conveniently buy it as a capsule as well. The typical recommended dose for Ashwagandha is 300mg twice daily after food.
ASHWAGANDHA BENEFITS
Both historically and contemporarily, the ashwagandha root has been used to treat many physical and mental health issues. Some alleged ashwagandha benefits include:
- Ashwagandha helps to boost collagen production levels improving the suppleness, bounciness, and firmness of the skin
- Ashwagandha helps keep skin hydrated and super boosts moisture levels
- Ashwagandha may help to lower cholesterol level and reduce as well as stabilize blood sugar levels
- Ashwagandha is known to boost concentration and energy levels all while reducing stress as well as anxiety
BEST ASHWAGANDHA SUPPLEMENTS
As an accessible supplement, immune-boosting Ashwagandha may become your go-to natural supplement to calm your mind and body. With its destressing, clarifying, and anxiety-reducing properties, this ancient root can help you reach your full potential so you can stick your grind, whatever it may be! Below we have included some of our picks of the best ashwagandha supplements, each with its own special aspect setting it apart from the rest:
Essential Elements Nutrition Organic Ashwagandha $19.95
Made with 15mg of organic black pepper extract that complements the benefits of ashwagandha, this extremely popular non-GMO organic ashwagandha supplement is our first choice for a good reason – not only does it boost your mood but is easily absorbed too. The ancient root, ashwagandha, is offered in a 1950 mg dose that can be taken daily, providing “powerful cognitive and mood support”. Essential Elements provides a triple strength vegan formula that will leave you feeling clear-minded, stress-free, and ready to concentrate on your day – one reviewer even called it “a little capsule of magic”. Other key benefits of this preservative-free ashwagandha supplement, include it being made without any dairy or soy. In this case, buying your ashwagandha directly from Essential Elements Nutrition ensures authenticity and freshness!
Sun Potion Ashwagandha Powder $47
This root powder is sourced from small organic farms in Northern India and is recommended to be consumed with warm water or tea. What sets Sun Potion’s supplement apart is their use of the organic cold-water extract, concentrated with the most potent part of the plant: the root. Easy to mix in whatever go-to morning drink of yours, this supplement is a great addition for those living busy lives. Sun Potion, as its title implies, will leave you feeling like you woke up with a nice ray of sunshine in your face, ready to face the day and all of its glory. Claiming to restore emotional balance and brain function, this powder will leave your body feeling inner-peace on a whole other level.
Moon Juice Ashwagandha Dietary Supplement $38
This Ashwagandha supplement has a distinct earthy taste that pairs perfectly with cacao and similar flavors. The super herb powder now comes in a “more potent” version. Moon Juice advises you to add to smoothies, coffee, teas, tonics, milks and baking, making it quite a versatile supplement that can easily complement your favorite beverages or baked goods. Mixing a little bit of this powder into your brownies or coffee will leave you feeling clear-headed, and ready for the day. Reviewers approve of its minimal (almost flavorless to some) taste, making it an essay add-on to your morning routine. A bonus: it comes in a cute matte glass jar, making it perfectly photogenic to flex to your followers.
Hum Uber Energy Uber Energy Adrenal Fatigue and Adaptogen Supplement $26
If you’re looking for an ashwagandha supplement mixed with other boosting super herbs, this supplement made by Hum is for you. The “herbal concoction” includes eleuthero, commonly known as Siberian ginseng which targets support to the adrenal gland when the body is dealing with stress. This herb is also known for its cognitive-enhancing and endurance-enhancing qualities. Along with it, the supplement is also made with Rhodiola, also known as golden root, which is another “adaptogen” that also increases stamina and energy. Each of these adaptogens assists in supporting the body to adapt to and resist stress. The Uber Energy supplement also blends in vitamin B6 and L-Tyrosine, the former helping with improving mood and the latter assisting in the production of brain chemicals that promote alertness and attention. Uber will help you from getting thrown off your mojo as you maneuver through the day with its wonderful blend of vitamins and natural herbs.
SIDE EFFECTS
While ashwagandha is (rightly) an intriguing and exciting supplement, it is important to note its side effects. According to Webmd, the long-term safety of it is unknown, but it is possibly safe when taken for up to 3 months. Large doses may lead to an upset stomach, vomiting, or diarrhea. Also, note this supplement is not recommended for pregnant women. If you’re considering reaping the wonderful benefits of ashwagandha, it is important to consult your doctor before to ensure it won’t meddle with any of your current medications or health problems!
DISCLAIMER
The information and other content provided by this article, or in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. The content provided by The Youthist is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please make sure to consult a medical health professional before you try ashwagandha.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Ancient India definitely knew what was up when they started using ashwagandha root powder medicinally. Despite us being late to the party, we are definitely ready to put its stamina-building, mood-balancing, memory-increasing qualities to use. With its impressive list of health and beaty benefits and possible preventative cancer properties, ashwagandha has an appeal for everyone. There is no doubt that in a room full of natural roots, this one would definitely take the trophy home.
