i] Lopresti AL, Smith SJ, Malvi H, Kodgule R. 2019. An investigation into the stress-relieving and pharmacological actions of an ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract. Medicine (Baltimore). 98(37): e17186. Ashwagandha is grown in India and good quality organic ashwagandha is hard to come by in the Western world, though can be found in our Peace tea. Most adaptogenic herbs have a positive effect on our immune system and ashwagandha is no exception. It is traditionally used to support a weakened immune system and it has now been shown to encourage anti-inflammatory and disease-fighting immune cells that help to ward off illness. More research is needed but early studies are encouraging, such as one showing a major change in immune cell activation after taking ashwagandha [xii].

Ashwagandha is traditionally used to improve sexual performance and libido in both men and women. When we are stressed, we produce a lot more adrenaline and place pressure on our adrenal glands and organs. Ashwagandha regulates the amount of adrenaline produced and strengthens organs, improving stamina as well as increasing sperm count and motility in men, and improving libido in women. One study showed that women [viii] who took a daily dose of ashwagandha over a month saw significant improvements in achieving orgasm and sexual arousal due to a significant reduction in sexually related distress. Beyond decreasing the effects of stress it was suggested that ashwagandha’s role in increasing testosterone was also key as this is a factor in androgen deficiency syndrome, which in turn is also associated with female sexual dysfunction [ix]. Meghan Markle has been said to have used it when prepping for her wedding and taking it in capsule form. We are here to inspire you to embrace all nature offers. Nourishing your mind and body at every moment to help you lead a healthier, happier life. Blended by our in-house team of qualified herbal experts, discover our range of herbal tea and supplements. Combining traditional herbal wisdom with the latest scientific research, our products support digestion, sleep, and energy, as well as immunity and relaxation. Each of our ashwagandha capsules and teas has been expertly crafted by our in-house herbal experts and nutritionists using the highest quality organic ingredients.Translated as ‘the strength of a horse’, ashwagandha nourishes the nervous system, helping to support relaxation and restore harmony. For these reasons, this balancing herb can be found in our Peace tea. You can also buy it in liquid extracts from health food or supplement shops. Are there any side effects?

Ashwagandha supports settling into good sleeping patterns. When we’re troubled, our sleep is too. By nourishing and strengthening our nervous system, studies show ashwagandha helps us to relax before bed. Women's Health talks to specialists behind the rising use of this herb and works out what ashwagandha can really do for your mental health. What is it ashwagandha? Adaptogens help the body adapt to long-term daily stressors, reducing negative changes during times of emotional and physical stress by strengthening the endocrine and nervous systems.Ayurveda, the ‘science of wellbeing’ that developed in India over 5000 years ago, has a long history of using ashwagandha’s roots to nourish the mind and enhance energy, making them perfect for when we are feeling weak and exhausted.

Ashwagandha is traditionally used as an aphrodisiac in both men and women. This makes sense as it helps support a healthy stress response. ii] Auddy B, Hazra J, Mitra A, Abedon B, Ghosal S. 2008. A standardized Withania somnifera extract significantly reduces stress-related parameters in chronically stressed humans: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study. JANA 11(1):51-57. Ashwagandha’s roots are harvested and air-dried before being used. All Pukka’s organic highest quality ashwagandha is grown in a dry region of north Karnataka (South West India). Ashwagandha’s ability to help the body adapt to stress is reflected by its ability to thrive in arid conditions and poor-quality alkaline soils. Most plants would suffer from severe stress in such an environment. Ashwagandha has long been used in ayurvedic tradition to nourish the mind and relax the nervous system. Due to its amazing benefits, you'll find our ashwagandha supplements and teas in our relax, sleep, and women's ranges.As a rejuvenating tonic, ashwagandha has been used in Ayurveda to alleviate fatigue and improve general well-being for centuries. Its effects on increasing energy, stamina and endurance are becoming increasingly known. It has been shown to significantly enhance athletic performance by improving heart and lung capacity while increasing energy levels. This makes it a great support for those who struggle with energy or have fatigue-related conditions, such as chronic fatigue syndrome. Why not try using ashwagandha in our Golden Milk of Bliss recipe- a delicious and nourishing drink. Ayurveda (traditional medicine practiced in India) views ashwagandha as one of the most prized rejuvenating herbs, which is thought to nourish the mind and enhance energy, making ashwagandha an ideal herbal hero when we are feeling weak and exhausted.

iv] Langade D, Kanchi S, Salve J, Debnath K, Ambegaokar D. 2019. Efficacy and safety of ashwagandha ( Withania somnifera) root extract in insomnia and anxiety: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study. Cureus 11(9): e5797.Ashwagandha has been well-researched in this regard with several studies supporting its effectiveness in managing the effects of stress [i],[ii]. However, this herb is unusual in that it is also a tonic, meaning it will strengthen an exhausted or agitated nervous system whilst calming it at the same time.