What is Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha is one of the best known adaptogens available. Adaptogens are a class of medicinal herbs that, as the name hints at, help your body adapt to the demands of internal and external stressors. Ashwagandha originates from India and has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years. 

What are the hair growth benefits of Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha is widely known for its anti-stress benefits. The adaptogen reduces and manages levels of the stress hormone cortisol.  While cortisol can be beneficial in short term or acutely stressful situations (gets us ready for fight or flight), it can be damaging to the body long term.

In a recent survey it was reported that more people are experiencing higher levels of financial and mental distress. The results showed stress was one of the leading causes of hair loss. Whether it’s physical or emotional stress, the increase of cortisol can pause hair growth production leading to hair loss, hair thinning or hair cycle dysfunction. The science shows us that cortisol increases the production of a protein called GAS6, which prevents the stem cells in your scalp from regenerating new hairs.  Stress may also lead to the build up of the FGF5 protein, which causes your hair to stop growing and fall out

Ashwagandha also has anti-inflammatory benefits. When the body responds to inflammation, it produces a substance called C-reactive protein (CRP for short) that is made by the liver and delivered into the blood stream. The administration of ashwagandha corresponds with a reduction in CRP, suggesting that it can reduce inflammation.

Inflammation at the hair follicle can have a wide range of causes, from traction injury or injury form heat styling tools, to genetic skin conditions, or temporary infections or allergiesBy taking ashwagandha, you may help reduce any localized inflammation.

How to take Ashwagandha?  

Ashwagandha is traditionally dried, ground and taken in beverage form in Ayurvedic medicine. 

However, Ashwagandha is becoming more accessible with more brands incorporating Ashwagandha in their products.

Our new vegan hair health supplements 'let there be hair' contain Ashwagandha. We understand that stress (physical and emotional) contributes to hair loss significantly.

Who should take Ashwagandha?  

Stressed and experiencing hair fall? Or just wanting to de-stress, build resilience to whatever life throws at you or to get a good night’s sleep? Then Ashwagandha is for you. Most supplements include the correct dosage amount per day, but you should always check with your healthcare professional before doing so.