icon-account icon-glass

Join the community!

We'll keep you up to date with interesting news, product information and offers so you never miss out.

No boring newsletters and we'll never share your address. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Popular Products

The Lean Protein
Whey protein powder for weight-loss.
The Energy Booster
Pre/intra-workout powder with BCAAs.
The Glow Booster
Collagen supplement for skin.

How Does Ashwagandha Help You To Relax?

20th June 2023

20th June 2023

By Vikki Rich

Life can be stressful, we get it. Sometimes you get home from a mega day at work and you want to relax, but for some reason, you can’t stop your mind from ticking. We’ve all been there, and it feels as though completely switching off and fully unwinding is an alien concept. Thankfully with The Relax Capsules, the feeling of complete relaxation doesn’t have to feel so foreign. With science-backed ingredients proven to help promote relaxation, you can have all the confidence that these fabulous capsules will do the trick.

How can this be possible you may ask? One word – Ashwagandha. The star of the show in this blog. We are going to deep dive into the actual science behind Ashwagandha and how this wonderful herb can help you to relax.

How does Ashwagandha work?

Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera, is an adaptogenic herb commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine. It has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for a variety of conditions. Today, it is widely recognised for its ability to promote relaxation and reduce those pesky stress levels.

One of the main ways that Ashwagandha helps you to relax is by reducing the levels of cortisol in your body. Cortisol is a hormone that is released in response to stress, and it can have a negative impact on your overall health and well-being. When you are under a lot of stress, your body produces high levels of cortisol, which can lead to a variety of health problems, including anxiety, depression, insomnia and stress. Ashwagandha has been known to help reduce these cortisol levels, which can ultimately help you to feel more calm and relaxed.

Ashwagandha for stress

So now we know that Ashwagandha might be incredibly helpful in reducing stress how can we prove it? A study shows that in a 60-day trial, participants who took Ashwagandha supplements every day had a greater reduction in their morning cortisol. Further solidifying the science that proves using Ashwagandha for stress is an incredibly good idea.

There’s no wonder why it’s estimated that at least 80% of people worldwide use medicinal and herbal supplements. But how else can this super herb help you?

Ashwagandha for sleep and inflammation

Another way you can use Ashwagandha is for sleep. Getting enough sleep is essential for your overall health and well-being, and it can have a significant impact on your stress levels. When you are well-rested, you are better equipped to handle stress and other challenges that come your way. Ashwagandha has been shown to help promote restful sleep, making it easier for you to get the rest you need to feel relaxed and refreshed.

The World Health Organization conducted a study in CENTRAL MEDLINE that proved Ashwagandha exhibited a small but significant effect on overall sleep, particularly in adults who are diagnosed with insomnia. As well as sleep, Ashwagandha also helped to improve anxiety levels and mental alertness.

Ashwagandha can also help to reduce inflammation in your body. Inflammation is a natural immune response to stress and other challenges, but when it becomes chronic, it can lead to a variety of health problems, including anxiety and depression. Another study put this to the test and found that Ashwagandha had an anti-inflammatory effect against the denaturation of protein. The study explains that this is possibly due to the alkaloid and withanolide contents of the Ashwagandha herb.

So, by reducing inflammation, Ashwagandha can help to promote overall health and well-being, and therefore of course, it can help to reduce stress levels.

Summary

If you are sitting at home, thinking Ashwagandha is just a myth, we hope you are well and truly scientifically convinced that this beautiful herb can do some good. Next time you are feeling a little stressed you know that you can rely on this trusty adaptogen (herb that contains ingredients that assist your body’s healing). So, take a deep breath, a moment of calm, and together, take a round of applause for our new best friend - Ashwagandha!

References

- Lucknow, Gomtinagar 3rd July 2011 "An Overview on Ashwagandha"

- Lopresti, Adrian, 13th September 2019 "An investigation into the stress-relieving and pharmacological actions of an ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract"

- Department of Family Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, University Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia Institute of medical research and medicinal plant studies, CAMEROON "Effect of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract on sleep: A systematic review and meta-analysis"

- Chandra Sangita, 2012, "Evaluation of Anti-inflammatory Effect of Ashwagandha: A Preliminary Study in vitro"

 

Product Spotlight

Need Expert Advice?

Other Insights

New Year, New Diet?
The new year is here, and with it comes the inevitable question: “What’s the best diet to follow this year?” It’s an exciting thought, isn’t it? A fresh start. A chance to get fit, shed some weight, and hit reset on your health. And while the latest trends and diets promise to be “the one,” let’s take a moment to slow down and look at what really works. The Hard Truth Most diets fail not because they don’t work, but because they don’t fit into real life. Think about it. You’re pumped, you’re excited, and you’re unstoppable — for about two weeks. Then life happens. Motivation fades (statistically, most resolutions crumble by mid-January), the restrictive nature of your new plan starts to feel like a burden, and it all falls apart. Sound familiar? The issue isn’t necessarily the diet itself — it’s that most diets aren’t realistic. You don’t need to overhaul your entire lifestyle or follow extreme rules to get healthier. In fact, sometimes the simplest, most sustainable habits will give you the biggest results. But let’s not completely dismiss diets. Different approaches work for different people. So, let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular diets right now, their pros and cons, and whether they might work for you. Keto (Low Carb, High Fat) Pros: Proven to help with rapid weight loss and can regulate blood sugar levels. For those with insulin sensitivity or certain health conditions, it can be transformative. Cons: Extremely restrictive. Eliminates most carbs, which can be a nightmare if you love bread, rice, or pasta. Social situations? Awkward. Meal planning? Time-consuming. Real Talk: If you’re someone who can commit to a high-fat, low-carb diet, it’s effective. But if your idea of happiness is pizza night, Keto might feel like a punishment. Proceed with caution. Paleo (Eat Like a Caveman) Pros: Encourages whole, unprocessed foods like lean proteins, veggies, and healthy fats. It’s a good way to clean up your eating habits. Cons: Cuts out entire food groups like dairy, grains, and legumes. Goodbye peanut butter sandwiches. Real Talk: Paleo is great if you enjoy simple meals and want to avoid processed foods. But for most people, cutting out grains and dairy forever is a tall order. Intermittent Fasting (Timing Over Calories) Pros: Simplifies eating patterns and can help with weight loss without needing to obsess over calorie counting. Cons: Not ideal for those who experience energy crashes or get “hangry.” Skipping meals isn’t for everyone. Real Talk: If you thrive with structure and enjoy skipping breakfast, intermittent fasting can work. But if skipping meals leaves you cranky or fatigued, it’s probably not the best fit. Mediterranean Diet (The Gold Standard) Pros: Loads of research supports its benefits for heart health, weight maintenance, and longevity. A balanced mix of carbs, fats, and proteins makes it more sustainable long-term. Cons: It’s less trendy, which means it doesn’t always grab the spotlight. Plus, it might require some adjustments if your current diet is heavy on processed foods. Real Talk: This is less of a “diet” and more of a lifestyle change. If you’re looking for something sustainable and flexible, the Mediterranean diet is a great option. So, What’s the Answer? Forget about finding the perfect diet. The truth is the best diet is the one that works for you. Here’s the formula that never fails: Eat nutritious food in balanced portions. Move your body regularly (whatever movement you enjoy!). Prioritise sleep — the underrated superhero of health. Sustainability is key. A diet should fit into your life, not the other way around. If it feels like torture or disrupts every meal with friends or family, it’s not going to last. It’s also worth considering why you’re dieting. If you’re looking for weight loss, remember that consistency beats intensity. Healthy habits — like eating balanced meals and getting regular exercise — will take you farther than any extreme diet ever could. A Word on Motivation Here’s the catch: motivation is temporary. It’s the honeymoon phase of any resolution, but it doesn’t last. What does last is routine. Building habits that work for you — not against you — is the real secret to success. No single diet is the holy grail. The truth is that most diets will work if you stick to them. The challenge is finding something that fits into your life seamlessly. That’s why it’s better to focus on balance and habits rather than perfection. My Diet Advice for 2025 Diets can be useful tools, but they’re not magic. Start small. Incorporate more whole foods and keep your portions in check. Move your body in a way that feels good — not as punishment, but as celebration. And don’t underestimate the power of great sleep. There’s no shame in trying a trendy diet if it motivates you to kickstart your health journey. Just remember, a diet is a tool, not a magic solution. If it doesn’t fit your lifestyle, it’s not you failing — it’s the diet and don’t beat yourself up about it. Focus on building habits you can stick with and remember that health isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon. Read more
Mushrooms: Overhyped or Undervalued?
You’ve probably seen mushrooms plastered all over Instagram by now, thrown into coffee, smoothies, and just about anything else. But let’s be real, are they actually worth the hype, or just another passing fad in the wellness world? Fair question. With terms like “superfood” thrown around like confetti, it’s hard to know what’s legit and what’s just marketing fluff. But here’s the thing: mushrooms have been used for centuries in traditional medicine, and now modern science is backing up a lot of what ancient cultures have been saying all along. Mushrooms in Popular Culture Mushrooms have become more than just a wellness ingredient — they’ve become a cultural phenomenon. From being plastered all over Instagram to making cameos in documentaries and even fine dining, these fungi are having a serious moment What do functional mushrooms do for you? The rise of “functional mushrooms” in wellness circles can be attributed to their ability to support immunity, stress relief, and physical performance. And while they’re trending now, it’s important to remember that mushrooms have been a cornerstone in holistic health for centuries. With more people turning to natural, science-backed alternatives, mushrooms are making their mark as more than just a passing wellness trend. This new wave of mushroom interest shows no signs of slowing down. From health supplements to skincare, mushrooms have officially crossed over into the mainstream. A Glimpse Into the Past Mushrooms aren’t new. Long before they were the star of your favourite influencer’s morning brew, they were a cornerstone in ancient remedies. For example, in China, reishi was hailed as the “Mushroom of Immortality” for its ability to supposedly promote longevity and calm the mind. Meanwhile, chaga, used in Siberia, was brewed as a tea to boost immunity. Mushrooms have been doing the rounds in different cultures for millennia, which begs the question—why are we only now starting to appreciate them in the West? What Are Mushrooms Good For? Mushrooms might have some fancy history behind them, but what does modern science say? Let’s hit some quick facts: Physical Performance: Ever heard of Cordyceps? These mushrooms were traditionally used by Tibetan herders to combat altitude sickness. Fast forward to today, and studies are showing cordyceps can help improve oxygen uptake during exercise, meaning you can push harder and go longer in your workouts. Immunity Boosting: Mushrooms like chaga and shiitake are loaded with beta-glucans. These are complex sugars that give your immune system a kick in the right direction by activating immune cells. Some pretty solid research backs this up, including a study published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine. Stress Relief: Feeling a bit frazzled? Reishi is classed as an adaptogen, which means it helps your body manage stress. A study in 2012 found that reishi helped reduce fatigue and improve quality of life in people dealing with chronic stress. Bottom line: reishi is your go-to for a bit of Zen in this chaotic world. Recovery & Hydration: Heard of tremella? It’s also called the “beauty mushroom,” but it does a lot more than just help with skin. Tremella supports hydration and recovery by boosting your body’s production of hyaluronic acid, which helps with inflammation and overall recovery after a tough workout. Mushrooms in the Here and Now Look, some wellness trends come and go (remember the lemon water detoxes?), but mushrooms? They’re here to stay. Mushroom health benefits stretch across so many areas—immunity, stress relief, performance—that it’s no wonder science is getting behind them now. But let’s be clear: we didn’t jump on the mushroom hype just because it’s trendy. Back in 2017, we were the first in the UK to put mushrooms across a range of our products because we knew these fungi weren’t just a fad. Which Is the Best Mushroom Supplement to Take? The Wellness Blend. Fast forward to now, and we’ve gone all-in with The Wellness Blend, our mushroom coffee. Yeah, regular coffee is great, but when you mix it with tremella, chaga, cordyceps, reishi, maitake, and shiitake mushrooms, you’re looking at a drink that’ll not only wake you up but help your mind and body perform at their peak. What makes The Wellness Blend unique. The fact that it contains ALL six functional mushrooms in one great product. It’s that simple. Overhyped or Still Undervalued? It’s easy to be skeptical of anything that gets too much hype, and you’d be right to question the wellness industry’s latest trends. But with mushrooms, I really think what we’re seeing now is the result of centuries of use being validated by science, not just another fleeting craze. These are ingredients that have been trusted for generations and are finally being recognized for their full potential. Are they undervalued? We think so. It’s great that they’re finally getting the recognition they deserve. Now it’s over to you to decide. Read more