Ashwagandha, also known as 'Withania Somnifera', was originally used in traditional Indian Ayurvedic medicine. This herb is becoming increasingly popular in the west and is most well known for its ability to reduce stress and promote a calmer and happier sense of being. A growing body of evidence is being collated around this powerful herb with an impressive variety of health benefits.

It is also being investigated for its potential to enhance memory and immune function. But what does the science say about all its purported health benefits and are any supported by decent evidence? Read on to find out!

1. It supports anxiety and Stress: Cortisol is a stress hormone released from the adrenals that has evolutionarily helped the body to mobilize a "fight or flight" response to a perceived imminent danger, freeing up resources for a vigorous fight against an intruder or flight from danger. Ashwagandha has been shown to promote healthy levels of cortisol and the healthy inflammatory processes that are stimulated in the response to stress.* This promotes healthy function of the immune, cardiovascular and nervous systems, as well as the brain, muscles and joints.* Ashwagandha also supports the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis that controls cortisol release from the adrenals.* 

2. Increase Fertility in Men: In men, Ashwagandha has also been shown to support a healthy stress response, healthy sperm levels and normal levels of testosterone.

3. Improves Cardiovascular system: Ashwagandha may have a variety of benefits to heart health, including treating: high blood pressure, high cholesterol, chest pain and heart disease