If you're on the path toward health improvement, you may want to start with your gut health. Your stomach and digestive system work hard to keep your body running efficiently. Between a healthy diet, regular exercise, and herbal supplements, you're on a course to support your health in the long run.

As you start your journey, you may have heard of Ashwagandha. But what is it and how can it improve your health?

Here's what you need to know about the history and benefits of this remarkable plant.

Ashwagandha: What is it?

Ashwagandha is a well-known traditional plant that is said to help your body better manage daily stress. The roots and berries of the plant are used by wellness professionals to create herbal supplements which usually take oral form. For example, Himalaya's very own Organic Ashwagandha. However, some people have even crafted ointments to be applied directly to the skin.

Ashwagandha's name comes from Sanskrit and translates roughly to "the strength of the stallion" because it has traditionally been used to support the immune system (but it also smells a little like horse). Other terms for the Ashwagandha plant include Indian Ginseng and Winter Cherry.

The scientific name, however, reveals a little more about this trusty plant. It is known as Withania somnifera, with somni referring to the Latin word for sleep. Home remedies have taken advantage of this factor to promote relaxation and work as a type of natural stress relief during times of occasional sleeplessness.

Uses and benefits

People have used Ashwagandha as a health-supportive plant for centuries stemming from a variety of reasons, including stress, energy, relaxation, and body balancing. As such, the root has been used in traditional African. Indian, Unani, and Ayurvedic medicines. Himalaya's Organic Ashwagandha hopes to follow their lead.

Some research has shown that Ashwagandha can improve adrenal function, a primary system that works to support hormone levels throughout the body, particularly the "stress hormone" cortisol. As such, your adrenal system helps control mood, stress, strength, and more. Even though your adrenal glands are only one inch by two inches in size, they can play a big role in living a healthy life.

Do you want to plant seeds of wellness in your own life in 2019? Rely on the herbal experts at Himalaya to support your good health with the plant-based, energizing, stress-supportive wisdom of Himalaya's Organic Ashwagandha.