With a generation obsessed with wellness, it seems like everyone is popping supplements, be it Vitamin D, B12, or magnesium. Taking supplements has become more of a lifestyle trend than an actual health need. But among all these, there’s one name that keeps coming up again and again and it’s Ashwagandha.
Being called a “miracle pill,” Ashwagandha is the new favourite of many celebrities, including Jennifer Aniston, Meghan Markle, Oprah Winfrey, Emily Weiss, and Jennifer Lopez. But what exactly does it do? Why is everyone from Hollywood stars to wellness coaches swearing by it?
We spoke to an Ayurvedic expert to understand what Ashwagandha really is, how it works, and whether it actually lives up to the hype.
Why celebrities love ashwagandha
It’s no secret that celebrities live high-stress lives, with tight schedules, constant public attention, and demanding work routines. That’s where Ashwagandha comes in.
“Ashwagandha works as an adaptogen. It helps the body adapt to physical and emotional stress by calming the nervous system,” says Dr. Mandeep Sahanpal, Senior Ayurveda Doctor at Girlyveda.
Celebrities like Meghan Markle, Jennifer Aniston, Oprah Winfrey, and Jennifer Lopez have reportedly included it in their wellness routines. Whether it’s in the form of capsules, powder in smoothies, or part of herbal teas, Ashwagandha is slowly becoming Hollywood’s go-to natural stress buster.
What exactly is ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an ancient herb used in Ayurveda for over 3,000 years. Traditionally, it’s been used to increase energy, improve concentration, and relieve stress.
Today, it’s one of the most talked-about herbal supplements around the world.
What are the health benefits?
Dr Sahanpal explains why wellness experts and celebrities alike are adding Ashwagandha to their daily routines:
1. Reduces stress and anxiety
Ashwagandha helps lower cortisol, the body’s main stress hormone. That means less anxiety, better emotional balance, and a calmer mind.
“In my practice, many patients report feeling less overwhelmed and more emotionally stable within a few weeks of regular use,” says Dr. Sahanpal.
2. Improves sleep quality
Struggling with sleepless nights? Ashwagandha helps promote restful sleep by soothing the nervous system. It’s a gentle, natural alternative to sleeping pills.
3. Boosts energy and physical endurance
It’s not just about relaxation. Athletes and fitness buffs use Ashwagandha to improve stamina, speed up recovery, and reduce post-workout fatigue.
4. Supports brain function
Ashwagandha may help improve memory, focus, and cognitive abilities by reducing oxidative stress in the brain. It’s believed to support nerve regeneration as well.
5. Balances hormones
In men, it has shown promise in boosting testosterone and improving fertility. In women, it may help ease symptoms of PMS, PCOS, and menopause.
6. Strengthens immunity
Due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, Ashwagandha helps build overall immunity, especially helpful during times of high stress or seasonal change.
Who should not have ashwagandha?
Despite its long list of benefits, Ashwagandha isn’t suitable for everyone. Some people may experience:
- Stomach issues like nausea or bloating (especially if taken on an empty stomach)
- Hormonal changes, especially if you already have thyroid problems
- Pregnancy risks—it’s not safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women
- Interactions with medications (blood pressure, thyroid, sedatives, etc.)
“Ashwagandha is a powerful herb. It’s best to speak to a doctor before starting it, especially if you’re already on medication,” says Dr. Sahanpal.
Who should consider taking ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha may be helpful if you:
- Constantly feel anxious, stressed, or burned out
- Struggle with poor sleep
- Want to improve energy levels naturally
- Need hormonal balance (under medical guidance)
- Want a natural immunity boost
Who should avoid it?
You should avoid Ashwagandha if you:
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have thyroid issues or autoimmune disorders
- Are on medication for diabetes, blood pressure, or mental health
- Are under 18
Do you really need it?
“Ashwagandha isn’t something everyone needs,” says Dr. Sahanpal. “If you sleep well, manage stress, eat a balanced diet, and move regularly, your body may not need extra support.”
But with modern lifestyles being what they are all about late nights, constant screen time, work stress, ashwagandha can be a gentle aid to bring your body and mind back into balance.
Natural alternatives to try
Not into supplements? Here are other ways to beat stress naturally:
- Meditation or deep breathing to lower cortisol
- Exercise or yoga to lift mood and energy
- Nutritious food with whole grains, fruits, and leafy greens
- Soothing teas like tulsi or chamomile
- Adaptogens in food like ginseng, holy basil, or licorice root
“Ashwagandha works best as part of a healthy lifestyle,” says Dr. Sahanpal. “It’s not a replacement for sleep, exercise, or good food—it’s just a natural support.”
Ashwagandha may not be the ultimate magic pill, but it has some benefits to help you cope with stress. So, whether you’re a busy professional, a new mom, or simply someone trying to feel more balanced in a hectic world, Ashwagandha could be worth giving a shot, but under the right guidance.
