Ashwa-WHAT?? 3 Remarkable Benefits of Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha, pronounced [aash - wuh - gaan - duh], is what is known as a calming adaptation. So what does that mean? Millions of people around the world have enjoyed the benefits of ashwagandha for centuries, since 6000 BC to be exact! Ashwagandha root is known to support thyroid function, normalize cortisol levels, balance the immune system, nourish the reproductive system, AND balance stress hormones. So you may be asking yourself: what is ashwagandha and what are the benefits of ashwagandha?

Rachelle Robinett, world-renowned registered herbalist and well-respected naturalist (who even collaborated with us in creating our new Banana Nut NOURISH bar) coined ashwagandha “the herb of the decade!” That’s why we’ve cooked up a bar that will FUEL your body with the world’s purest ashwagandha extract: KSM-66 organic ashwagandha extract. KSM-66 ashwagandha extract has been proven by numerous human clinical trials to be “the most bioavailable full-spectrum root extract on the market today” (KSM-66). 

Through extensive clinical trials, KSM-66 has proven the extract's effects on both psychological and physiological aspects of human functioning aka good for your mind and body. Which is what we’re all about here at B.T.R. NATION!

So let's get into the science behind ashwagandha...

A 2012 study published in the Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine confirmed that KSM-66 ashwagandha reduced scores on all stress-assessment scales as well as cortisol levels. Peace out, stress! KSM-66 ashwagandha was also proven in a 2017 study to improve immediate and general memory, as well as executive function, attention and information processing. And this 2015 study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition to improve muscle recovery, increase muscle size, and decrease body fat. Winning!

Let's break it down a bit more. Here are three remarkable benefits of ashwagandha:

1. Ashwagandha and Stress

Chronic stress is everywhere! Centuries ago, our stress looked a lot different than it does now. Nevertheless, our cortisol levels have been on the rise since 6000 BC. That’s why our ancestors turned to ashwagandha, the ultimate stress-reducing adaptogen to help their bodies and minds regulate stress levels.

In this study, researchers took a look at 64 adults with a history of chronic stress. Researchers found that serum cortisol levels (aka the hormone that causes the fight or flight stress response) was significantly reduced in the group of patients taking KSM-66 ashwagandha daily, relative to the placebo group. Bye, bye stress! Hello, ashwagandha!

2. Ashwagandha and Brain Function

It's clear why many argue the brain is the most important organ in the body! “It controls and coordinates actions and reactions, allows us to think and feel, and enables us to have memories and feelings—all the things that make us human.” So how great would it be if YOU could impact YOUR brain function?! This 2017 study claims that you can…

This particular human trial studied 50 adults with mild cognitive impairment. After 56 days and a variety of logic, memory, and attention tests, the ashwagandha group demonstrated significant improvements in immediate and general memory as well as greater improvement in executive function, sustained attention, and information-processing speed. 

3. Ashwagandha and Muscle Recovery

Calling all ATHLETES (or wanna be athletes…)!!!  

Who else feels sore after leg day at the gym? Ashwagandha may be able to help with that.

In this 2015 study of 57 men ages 18-50, researchers demonstrated that the men who took KSM-66 ashwagandha capsules daily had a significantly greater increase in muscle strength and even muscle size (specifically in the chest and arms). Another plus? The men who took KSM-66 ashwagandha daily also had a greater reduction of exercise induced muscle damage, which is key for a quicker recovery between workouts.

And that’s not all…Read more about the 22 gold standard human clinical trials, and why we're so PROUD to include KSM-66 in our NEWEST Banana Nut NOURISH Bar!