One of the most rejuvenating herbs in alternative medicine is ashwagandha. You may have already heard of it as it has become more popular and mainstream in recent years. This plant is native to India, Southeast Asia, and parts of Africa. The roots and leaves of the ashwagandha can be turned into extract or powder, which are used in various products.
Some believe the plant has terrific health benefits, but more research is needed to confirm these claims. However, plenty of human studies suggest it can be beneficial. We will go over everything you need to know about ashwagandha and how to use it.
The History of Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is a small shrub that produces yellow flowers and velvety leaves. It's also known as Indian winter cherry, Indian ginseng, or Withania somnifera. Many parts of India use a traditional medicine system called Ayurveda, which relies on nutrition, exercise, mindfulness, and ayurvedic herbs to treat various conditions. Ashwagandha has been used for centuries as a part of ayurvedic medicine.
Many use ashwagandha to help with issues like low energy levels, pain, and anxiety. Some also use it for improving overall health.
Ashwagandha is a part of the adaptogen plant family, which is well-known for its health advantages when consumed as teas, powders, tinctures, or supplements. To be classified as an adaptogen, plants have to meet certain criteria. They must be classified as non-toxic, help regulate stress, and benefit a person’s overall well-being.
You can also find ashwagandha in a variety of body products, like Spongellé’s Spiritual Detox Buffer Collection, which uses ashwagandha root extract to help take your shower experience to the next level.
Below are several possible benefits of ashwagandha:
1. Can Help Reduce Breakouts
Ashwagandha, a true skincare hero, holds the power to significantly reduce acne and promote clearer skin. Thanks to its natural anti-inflammatory properties, this amazing herb calms redness and inflammation caused by acne breakouts. Additionally, it helps regulate oil production, preventing excess sebum buildup that often clogs pores and leads to acne formation. By tackling these acne triggers, Ashwagandha paves the way for a smoother, blemish-free complexion, instilling confidence and a radiant glow.
2. May Support Muscles and Strength
With its impressive natural anti-inflammatory properties, Ashwagandha proves to be a calming and effective solution for reducing skin redness. The herb's gentle approach helps soothe redness caused by skin irritations, sensitivities, or environmental stressors, leaving your complexion balanced and serene. Whether you're dealing with post-breakout redness or battling skin irritation, this remarkable herb steps in to provide relief, revitalizing your skin and bringing back its natural radiance. Including Ashwagandha in your skincare routine or diet can be a game-changer, helping you combat redness and embrace a more tranquil and vibrant complexion.
3. Moisturizes and improves glow
A true gift from nature, This magical root extract holds the key to deeply moisturizing the skin and infusing it with a radiant glow. Its unique properties work wonders in enhancing the skin's natural hydration levels, locking in moisture and preventing dryness. By nourishing the skin from within, Ashawaganda helps to maintain a supple and dewy complexion, leaving it looking plump and youthful. Additionally, this incredible herb promotes better blood circulation, which contributes to a healthy and glowing appearance. As a result, the skin is revitalized, and the natural radiance shines through, giving you a luminous and refreshed glow
4. Repairs and Rejuvenates
Packed with potent antioxidants, this natural wonder works diligently to combat the damage caused by free radicals, environmental pollutants, and UV rays, which can lead to premature aging and dullness. By neutralizing these harmful elements, Ashwagandha supports the skin's healing process, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots. Moreover, the extract stimulates collagen production, the essential protein responsible for maintaining skin's elasticity and firmness. As a result, the skin becomes smoother, more supple, and plump, reclaiming its youthful resilience.
What To Know Before Using Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is considered a safe supplement for most people to take. However, there are several side effects of ashwagandha, and the long-term effects aren't known.
One review of 69 studies concluded that ashwagandha root seems to be a safe and effective way to help with feelings of stress and poor sleep quality. Another study on 80 men and women revealed that consuming 600 mg of ashwagandha every day for eight weeks did not result in any adverse health effects.
However, not everyone should take ashwagandha. For example, pregnant women should avoid it since it may cause complications, including pregnancy loss. Breastfeeding mothers may also want to avoid taking ashwagandha. People taking certain medications or with hormone-sensitive medical conditions should not take ashwagandha.
Some people reported side effects after taking ashwagandha, such as upper gastrointestinal discomfort and diarrhea. Ashwagandha may also affect the thyroid in some people. You should consult a healthcare professional before taking something new, even if it's herbal medicine. A professional can also give you medical advice on how high of a dosage you can handle.
Research suggests that ashwagandha's effects don't happen immediately and may take several months before you notice changes. You can buy ashwagandha from various supplement manufacturers, vitamin shops, and health food stores. You can also get ashwagandha body products like those at Spongellé. Some of our favorite ashwagandha products include our Jasmine Star Spiritual Detox Buffer and our Eternal Mint Spiritual Detox Buffer.
For 22+ washes, these buffers can help you wash away the negativity in your life and bring you a refreshing, balanced feeling. They’re potentially beneficial not only for feelings of positivity, but they can also support your skin with the nourishment and hydration that it needs. With these shower gems, you can cleanse, buff, detox, and renew your skin.
Final Thoughts
Ashwagandha has been around for centuries and has many possible health benefits. Studies suggest it may help support emotional wellness, maintain feelings of clarity, and soothe the body.
Ashwagandha is relatively safe, but some people should avoid the herb. It's important to consult with a medical professional before taking any supplement. However, you don't need professional advice to use one of our amazing vegan-friendly body buffers infused with ashwagandha for an at-home spa experience!
Sources
9 Proven Health Benefits of Ashwagandha | Healthline
An Overview on Ashwagandha: A Rasayana (Rejuvenator) of Ayurveda | PMC
Safety and Clinical Effectiveness of Withania somnifera (Linn.) Dunal Root in Human Ailments | PMC
Can Ashwagandha Help You Sleep? | Sleep Foundation
32 Benefits of Ashwagandha You Wished You Knew Earlier
