In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, herbs are some of our strongest healing allies, aiding in balancing our entire system; mind, body, and spirit. Utilizing these herbs is one of Ayurveda's primary tools in achieving a greater sense of health and well-being. Because herbs embody such powerful healing properties, all of Bennd's products come infused with 22 different Ayurvedic herbs and medicines.

In our new monthly blog series, The Powerful Herbs behind Bennd's Exclusive Formula, we will be featuring the herbs you will find throughout our brand. Starting with our trusty BFF: Ashwagandha, the soothing adaptogenic powerhouse.

What is Ashwagandha? 

Used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, Ashwagandha, or Withania Somnifera, is an ancient medicinal herb that has gained popularity in recent years for its calming and stress-relieving properties. Ashwagandha is a shrub that grows in India, the Middle East, Africa, and Western China. The use of ashwagandha root, the medicinal part of the shrub, is documented in various traditional Ayurvedic texts. Dating back to 600 A.D., the Kasyapa Samhita is considered a Rasayana in Ayurvedic tradition—or an herb that contains rejuvenating properties and restores youthfulness in the body and mind. In modern terms, Ashwagandha is regarded as an adaptogen— a type of herbal plant that helps your body adjust to physical, chemical, or biological stress.

Benefits of Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha has become one of the most popular herbs used worldwide for a good reason. As an adaptogen, the plant will adapt to your body's needs when it is called to. It is an excellent option for those experiencing high-stress levels, those having trouble maintaining their energy levels, and those who struggle with falling into a restful night's sleep. In addition, Ashwagandha is a fantastic herb for those experiencing a Vata imbalance. Practicing on our herb-infused mats allows your body to absorb the healing benefits of Ashwagandha as you move. 

Some benefits of Ashwagandha include: 

• Promotes sustainable energy throughout the day: Ashwagandha roots are said to smell like a horse (ashwa in Sanskrit) and give you the stamina and power of the equine animal, which is how this adaptogen got its name. Ashwagandha helps refresh and energize the mind and body, cultivating energy that carries you through the entire day. 
• Encourages a deep and restful nights sleep: Ashwagandha can help counteract a restless and running mind by calming racing thoughts
• Reduces stress and anxiety: Ashwagandha is a Vata balancing herb with grounding and warming qualities. This herb helps ease the mind and promotes relaxation and a balanced mental state.   
• Decreases inflammation: Studies show that regular use of this adaptogenic herb can help reduce inflammation, promoting a healthier body and mind. 
• Increases muscle strength and lowers body fat: The rejuvenating qualities of Ashwagandha help to promote muscle mass and nourish the body, counteracting Vata imbalances and combating Vata-dominant diseases like emaciation.
  

How to Use Ashwagandha 

Aside from absorbing the benefits of this herb while practicing on our products, there are other ways you can incorporate this medicinal plant into your life. Ashwagandha is traditionally consumed orally in the form of tea or capsules. We advise consulting an Ayurvedic practitioner to determine if taking Ashwagandha is appropriate for your constitution and decide on the correct dosage for your body. 

Individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, immunocompromised, or have thyroid disorders should not take Ashwagandha. This adaptogen can cause excess heat in the body, so those with a Pitta constitution should consider that when taking Ashwagandha. Those who are Kapha dominant or are trying to lose weight should also consider whether Ashwagandha is right for them.

Our mats are a gentle and effective way to receive the healing benefits of this powerful herb. Safe for all ages and body types, they make for excellent gifts this holiday season. In addition, our Ashwagandha-infused Double Harda yoga mat will leave anyone with a calm and centered state of mind.