What would the new year be without one of those cliche posts reviewing the past year? To kick off 2020, I decided it would be a good idea to revisit everything I tried in 2019, so I present to you The best supplements, herbs and nootropics of 2019. This post might have some things you’ve […]
Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera)
Ashwagandha is the root of the flower Withania somnifera, and has been used in Ayurvedic tradition for years to treat a number of ailments. Ashwagandha has also been scientifically vindicated for its effects as an adaptogen, an anxiolytic (anxiety reducer) and an aphrodisiac.
Ashwagandha's adaptogenic and anxiety reducing effects stem from its actions on the GABA system, leading one to feel more calm and collected.
Ashwagandha's aphrodisiac and sexual effects also come from its effects on the GABA system, but also from its ability to reduce prolactin, a hormone which can lower dopamine and hence lower sex drive. Thus, ashwagandha can help maintain beneficial levels of dopamine and other hormones.
- iHerb - Ashwagandha catalog
- Powder City - Ashwagandha extract bulk powder and Ashwagandha capsules
Ashwagandha – Stress and anxiety-reducing Ayurvedic herb
Ashwagandha is a name for the plant Withania somnifera and is a highly regarded substance among Ayurvedic herbs. As I always explain here, don’t let the fact that this is a plant fool you: herbs are just as potent, if not more so than nutrients and the only reason we don’t understand them is because […]
A primer on tinctures
Supplements, particularly herbal ones, come in a variety of forms. Liquid tinctures, or alcohol extractions of herbs are one form of herbal supplementation, but are seldom recognized outside of the “alternative health” world. Nonetheless, in many cases they can (and should) be considered over capsules or other dubious extractions. What are tinctures and why should […]
Increase your stress tolerance
Stress is hormetic. If you don’t have any stress, you’ll die. If you have too much stress, you’ll die. Life is not stress-free, so it’s a good idea to just increase your tolerance to it. Most people call it “reducing stress” but if you’re reducing stress you are probably reducing your livelihood too. Stress is […]
