If you're a fan of our Calm Stress Support CBD Capsules, you’re no doubt aware of the ingredient ashwagandha. Although it may sound like the newest buzzword superfood, ashwagandha has actually been used for its many health benefits for way before buzzwords were a thing.

What is ashwagandha? 

Ashwagandha is a natural root that has been used in ayurvedic practices for centuries. This potent adaptogen has been shown to help cope with occasional stress and promote calmness. Herbal supplements use the root, primarily, for powders, capsules, or tinctures. It’s sometimes called winter cherry or Indian ginseng. It gets its name from the Hindi word for horse, ashwa, because of its horsey smell. In Ayurvedic practice it’s been used as a tonic for children and the elderly, but it's also known for its power to help manage stress.

The role of adaptogens and how they help with stress

Added to your daily regimen -- as a supplement, tea, or in your food -- certain herbs and roots act as adaptogens -- meaning they help your body adapt to certain conditions. Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine have used adaptogens for ages. Indian households have been using ashwagandha as a home remedy, but more research is needed to determine if science backs up the results. But initial studies show promise for claims that ashwagandha -- the adaptogen Elixinol adds to Calm Stress Support Capsules -- helps reduce and manage stress.

Cortisol: Our main stress hormone

Cortisol is a hormone released in your body when you’re exposed to stress. It’s that “fight or flight” stuff that alerts your brain in certain situations. It doesn’t always show up in appropriate levels, though. Too much cortisol in your system and you’re freaking out while stuck in traffic as though you’re being chased by a bear. You want that response when you’re truly in danger, but in everyday situations, a pounding heart doesn’t help. To complicate things, as daily stress builds up, your cortisol levels may become elevated by default, and boom, you’re feeling stressed out nonstop.

Taking a regular ashwagandha supplement can help lower and balance out those cortisol levels, making your commute more about audio books and (hands free, please) phone calls with friends and family.

How Ashwagandha + CBD work together to reduce stress

CBD works with your body’s Endocannabinoid System (ECS) to help relieve everyday stress. Your ECS has CBD receptors that send signals to your brain and body, helping to regulate basic body functions. CBD helps promote feelings of calm and relaxation, as well as supports a positive mood. Together with ashwagandha, full-spectrum CBD is specifically made to help you rise above the daily, stress-inducing grind we all deal with.

So, should you start taking ashwagandha? 

Overall, ashwagandha is a natural ingredient with many known health benefits. Like any other supplement, results can vary and we encourage you to talk to your doctor before starting anything new.

That said, if you're looking for a natural way to find more relaxation in your daily life, our Stress Support Capsules – made with CBD + ashwagandha, are a great option to supplement your regular stress-reducing routines.

As with any supplement, this product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. It’s a good idea to check with your doctor before including any supplement in your dietary regimen, especially if you’re part of a high-risk population.