05/02/2021
WITHANIA/ASHWAGHANDA ▫️Withania somnifera
Withania is a perennial erect shrub with dense velvety stems and leaves, small white or yellowish flowers and orange- red berries. It is indigenous to all parts of Africa, south eastern Europe, Asia and Middle Eastern countries.
Withania supports adrenal glands to help reduce levels of stress and anxiety via normalising cortisol levels. This reduces the negative effects of high (or low levels) of this hormone. This is highly significant as ongoing stress can be detrimental to our health. Adrenal function is closely linked to thyroid function, therefore as Withania supports the adrenal glands, it has an indirect effect on improving thyroid function as well.
Withania significantly impact athletic performance by improving heart and lung capacity while increasing energy levels. Not only is this useful for the purposes of exercise, it is also helpful for people who struggle with their energy levels or those with fatigue-related conditions. It has also been shown to stabilise blood sugar levels, reducing blood sugar when it's too high or increasing it if too low.
Withania has also demonstrated excellent immune-boosting effects on our immune system. It has been shown to encourage anti-inflammatory and disease-fighting immune cells that help to ward off illness. As Withania has potent anti-inflammatory properties, it is very useful in painful conditions such as arthritis. As the herb is rich in iron it also contributes to red blood cell count.
Withania helps improve brain function, memory, reaction times and the ability to perform tasks. It promotes antioxidant activity that protects nerve cells from harmful free radicals.
Withania can be found in the RELAX herbal tea blend.
Medicinal actions; adaptogen, tonic, sedative, nervine tonic, anti-arrhythmic, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumour, hypotensive