Plants have been relied upon as medicine since the beginning of time. Plant medicines like ayahuasca, psilocybin, cannabis, and ibogaine have shown huge promise in treating conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), opiate addiction, nicotine addiction, alcoholism, anxiety, and depression.
Another medicinal plan is getting a lot of attention lately: ashwagandha.
Ashwagandha History, Benefits, and Forms
Classified as an adaptogen (it can help your body manage stress), ashwagandha is an ancient medicinal herb supported by science. It’s an herb known throughout the Indian Ayurvedic system of medicine as a Rasayana (tonic). The plant’s home originated in India, Middle East, Northern Africa and now the United States where it thrives in mild climates like Oregon.
Ashwagandha is a winter cherry, a part of Solanaceae nightshade family — the same family as the tomato. Considered a neuro-supportive and nootropic herb, ashwagandha promotes healthy cognitive function and supports healthy nervous system function. There are benefits that this plant offers, that science has proven, including:
- Reduces blood sugar levels
- Has anti-cancer properties
- Can reduce cortisol levels
- Helps help reduces anxiety
- May help treat depression
- Can boost testosterone and fertility in men
- Helps increase muscle mass
- May help lower cholesterol and triglycerides
- Can improve brain function and memory
Regarding depression, this is what NCBI found from a 60-day study:
64 stressed adults, who took 600 mg of high-concentration Ashwagandha extract per day, reported a 79% reduction in severe depression, while the placebo group reported a 10% increase.
Ashwagandha forms and consumption methods vary. It can be consumed by liquid tincture, capsules, tea, and powder.
Ashwagandha and Cannabis Combined
The benefits of combining hemp CBD and ashwagandha are said to enhance the therapeutic potency of both plant-derived extracts. Combined, they make each other more effective than they are when taken individually. Ashwagandha and hemp CBD roots are natural allies for maintaining an optimized state of equanimity.
It is said that ashwagandha can ground an intense THC high due to its grounding effects. Because it’s an adaptogen, it helps with anxiety by impacting our adrenals. Adrenals manage our physical response to stress, therefore, grounding the intensity.
Ashwagandha has been studied and clinically reported to help manage and balance a range of physical, mental, and sexual sensitivities. Those suffering from stress, cognitive function, sexual performance difficulties, depression, anxiety, inflammation, cancer and a host of other difficulties, may find relief in consuming ashwagandha.