ASHWAGANDHA!⠀
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This is our Di Tao, #BeyondOrganic ashwagandha freshly harvested. We’ve had it extracted and brought to us ASAP (lovingly of course) so we can honour the I-O-U 2nd launch of SuperFeast ashwagandha. Last time we amazingly sold out in 12 hours, so that means we owe you another 12 hours at 30% off, and that begins tomorrow at 8am!!! (While stocks last).⠀
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Otherwise known as Indian ginseng (or Withania somnifera), this beautiful tonic herb - ashwagandha by the way - is one of our favourite CALMING adaptogens. As you know we are keen Taoist tonic herbalists and have focused on the tonic herbs and adaptogens from the China region untill now. At heart though we are planetary herbalists and love all the global tonics.⠀
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Various and ongoing research has been conducted on the anti-stress activities of ashwagandha, as traditionally this has been the key reason for using the herb. One way ashwagandha is thought to have a down regulating effect on the stress response, is its ability to stabilise the HPA (hypothalamus, pituitary, adrenal) axis. By lending support to the HPA axis, ashwagandha protects the adrenals and promotes healthy communication betweenthe hypothalamus, pituitary and adrenal glands. Via the stabilisation of the HPA axis, ashwagandha has been shown to lower cortisol levels; elevated cortisol levels are a sure sign of a stressed, imbalanced individual. Another mechanism to explain the calming effects of ashwagandha could be due to its GABA-mimetic activity, supporting theherb’s anti anxiety and nervous system inhibitory effects.⠀
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Traditionally used as a calming nervine, to assist in lowering the stress response, ashwagandha is now used for individuals suffering from poor sleep, nervous exhaustion, chronic illness and being overworked. With its deep nurturing action on the mind, ashwagandha helps encourage a deep and often dreamless sleep. It is an incredible herb for both men and women and we’re happy to have it in the herbal team!