PantryPic #960: Ashwagandha

-Organic Ashwagandha (aka Indian Ginseng). 
-Available in liquid, powder, leaf, essential oil, and capsule form. 

-A powerful adaptogenic herb, meaning it helps the body adapt to stress
(rather than working on one specific physiological function).
-Helps the adrenal glands to regulate the cortisol reponse, lowering our ‘fight-or-flight’ (sympathetic) nervous system.
-Beneficial for improving our stress response and healing: helping to improve our blood sugar levels, hormone response, sleep, and body composition.
-Shown to benefit thyroid functioning, digestive health, tumors, mental health, inflammation, arthritis, and can assist in recovery from adrenal fatigue.

-Use Ashwagandha root extract (leaf extract typically used for killing cancer cells).
-Can incorporate powder or leaf form into recipes, or consume as a tea.
-When supplementing, start with a low dose (300-500mg) and follow instructions on label
(ideally taken without food, in between meals).
-Do not expect liquid herb form to taste good…tastes like cheap whisky
(Ashwagandha’s literal translation is “odor of horse”). 

Note: Ashwagandha could break a fast if you are using an Intermittent Fasting Protocol.

*always do your research and consult your doctor prior to starting any supplementation.*