Up until recently, I’d been feeling “off.” I couldn’t quite put my finger on what the issue was, but I knew I didn’t feel 100%. When feeling off-center, I can typically trace the cause back to a lack of sleep/exercise or eating poorly. I’d been exercising regularly, sleeping a decent amount, and eating well. I couldn’t work out what was wrong.
It was then I fortuitously stumbled upon an episode of a beauty podcast called Glowing Up. On this particular episode titled “We <3 Fat (with Lee from America),” holistic lifestyle blogger Lee Tilghman talks to the hosts about an array of healthy living tips and tricks. The thing that stuck out to me was Tilghman’s adoration of adaptogens. In a nutshell, adaptogens are various herbs and mushrooms that help your body adapt better to the world around you. Namely, different internal and external stresses.
For some time I’ve had a tincture of Ashwagandha (one of the many adaptogens out there) sitting in my cabinet. Listening to the episode was the encouragement I needed to take that little bottle off my shelf and begin using it.
W-O-W.
I have never felt better.
Benefits of Ashwagandha
There are many claimed benefits from taking Ashwagandha. Here are the most commonly listed ones:
- Combats Stress
- Reduces Anxiety/ Depression
- Boosts immunity
- Reduces Blood Sugar
Effects I Immediately Noticed
- Anxiety gone. I didn’t realize how much anxiety I was actually carrying around, but I’ve felt as though a weight has been lifted off my chest. Things that would have typically made me anxious simply don’t bother me or are far easier to just say “whatever” to.
- Balanced Energy. After taking Ashwagandha, I’ve noticed a more consistent energy throughout the day. Instead of my energy randomly peaking or waning, I operate at a much more even keel.
There are many ways to consume Ashwagandha. The most common are
- Pills
- Powders
- Teas
- Tinctures
How I Consume Ashwagandha
I have only taken the tincture form so this is the one I can attest to. On its own, the tincture has quite a strong flavor. However, when combined with various drinks, it adds a nutty-richness. For me, I need to add some milk and sweetener to my drinks when adding Ashwagandha.
- Matcha Latte. In a mug, combine 2 tablespoons boiling water, 1 teaspoon matcha powder, 1/2 dropper of ashwagandha, and 1 tablespoon of maple syrup. Stir to combine. Heat up (either on the stove or in microwave) 1 cup of almond/ soy milk then pour it into the other mug. Using a fork, give everything a good whisk.
- Black Tea. Brew one cup of your favorite black tea. Add 1/4 cup of almond/ soy milk, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, and 1/2 dropper of ashwagandha. Stir to combine.
I’ve been taking Ashwagandha for about a month now, and I can really tell the difference. I take it within the first few hours of being awake. Occasionally I’ll take more midday if I feel I need a little assistance.
It’s easy and fast to add Ashwagandha to your everyday routine, give it a try!
What adaptogens have you tried? Have you taken Ashwagandha in a form other than tincture? I love hearing people’s experiences with various adaptogens!
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Photo: quentin lagache and Brenda Godinez via Unsplash
