The benefits of Ashwagandha for dogs
Your guide to ashwagandha for dogs
Our dogs are our world.
So when our fur baby is suffering, it becomes our problem too.
If you’re like us, we want to support our dogs in the most natural way possible. Luckily, the Ayurvedic medicine system has existed and flourished for centuries, and some of its wisdom can be passed down to our pups.
Today, we’re going to talk about the benefits of ashwagandha for dogs. Modern life is full of stressors so if your dog suffers from stress, anxiety or even inflammation, this super herb might be the solution for you.
What is Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) also known as Indian Ginseng or as the “Indian winter cherry” is an evergreen shrub grown in parts of Asia, Africa and the Middle East.
The root is the part of the plant that is used predominantly for its health benefits and often comes in a fine powder form. In the Ayurvedic medicine system, ashwagandha has been known to boost mental and physical health and help the body maintain homeostasis (a state of balance).
How does ashwagandha work?
The main bioactive compounds in ashwagandha are called alkaloids & withanolides (steroidal lactones) and exert antioxidants and anti inflammatory activities.
Ashwagandha is mainly used as an adaptogen. Adaptogens help the body adapt to physical and emotional stress by helping us find balance. As an adaptogen, ashwagandha is said to emit chemicals that calm the nervous system and lower blood pressure.
It has also been shown to reduce cortisol levels. Because of its healing properties, ashwagandha is used for many stress related conditions, including nervousness, insomnia and anxiety.
There have also been many studies on ashwagandha and serious illnesses. Interestly, it has been said that ashwagandha slows down neurodegenerative diseases in humans, like Alziemers and Parkinsons, as well as slowing the growth of tumours.
Ashwagandha therefore has an antiproliferative effect on malignant cell growth, or in other words, prevents the growth of damaged or harmful cells. Therefore, ashwagandha is thought to increase survival time for those dealing with life threatening diseases, making it truly a wonder herb.
Benefits of Ashwagandha for dogs
Ashwagandha is non-toxic and perfectly safe for use in dogs. It carries a range of benefits that can improve your pup’s physical and mental health and we always recommend talking to your veterinarian or healthcare professional to make sure you are adding the right nutritional supplement to your dog’s daily routine. Here are some of the fantastic benefits of ashwagandha for pups:
Relieve stress and anxiety by regulating the nervous system
Ashwagandha is an adaptogen, meaning it will help regulate your pup’s nervous system.
Because of its calming qualities, ashwagandha can soothe your dog if it suffers from:
- Separation anxiety
- Social anxiety
- Overstimulation
- Hyperactivity
- Fear of loud noises
- Fear of cars
- Fear of visiting the vet
- General nervousness
Ashwagandha can help balance your dog’s hormones and lower its cortisol levels, which may assist to:
- Improved mood
- Decreased feelings of stress and anxiety
- Regulated digestion
- Improved metabolism
- Improved balance of bodily fluids
But not all ashwagandha extracts are created equal.
Nectar of the Dogs’ Calm + Relax uses Ashwagandha KSM-66®, the most clinically studied ashwagandha on the market. It has the highest concentration full-spectrum root extract available today and is known for its high quality, purity and bioavailability. Most importantly, it has been clinically-trialled specifically for stress relief in dogs.
Support your dog’s immunity
Ashwagandha is also thought to support your dog’s immune system. This is great for those who want to strengthen their dog’s defences and help them fight pathogens that could bring them down.
If your dog does happen to get sick, ashwagandha is known to support the immune system in fighting infections like skin infections and allergies.
Reduce inflammation
Ashwagandha also helps reduce inflammation, which can ease symptoms of arthritis and joint pain. This is especially good for older dogs, but is helpful for dogs of any age.
How do I give ashwagandha to my dog?
If you want to give ashwagandha to your dog, we’ve got you covered.
Nectar’s Calm + Relax powder is formulated with high-grade Ashwagandha KSM-66®, making it the perfect fix when your pup’s feeling a little worried.
This powder is non sedating and the best part is, we’ve figured out the dosing for you. We’ve also combined it with other top mood enhancing ingredients like L-Tryptophan and Magnesium Phosphate. All you need to do is follow our recommended daily dosage, mix in with food or add to water and let your pup enjoy the taste and the benefits. It’s really that easy.
Soon, your pup will be able to wind down and enjoy the relaxing, nurturing benefits of nature’s medicine.
Interested in trying ashwagandha for your pup? Check out Nectar’s Calm + Relax power.
