• Dr. Bill Rawls

    ABOUT BILL RAWLS, M.D.

    Dr. Rawls' groundbreaking approach to wellness comes from decades of practicing medicine, extensive research in alternative therapies, and firsthand experience helping thousands find their path to wellness. Dr. Rawls is a best-selling author, Medical Director and Co-Founder of Vital Plan, a holistic health company and Certified B Corporation.
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  • Ashwagandha
    By Vital Plan
    Reviewed by Bill Rawls, MD
    Medical Director of Vital Plan

    Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is native to India and Africa and has been used for thousands of years as a revitalizer. This adaptogenic herb is derived from the root of a plant distantly related to tomatoes and potatoes.

    Benefits of Ashwagandha

    Ashwagandha is one of the most effective herbs for balancing hormones and reducing the detrimental effects of occasional stress.* Studies have shown that ashwagandha helps:*

    • Support stress management
    • Encourage mental focus
    • Promote homeostasis (hormonal balance in the body)

    Ashwagandha also offers antioxidant and immune-supporting properties.*

    Stress and the HPA Axis

    When feeling stressed, the body goes into a “fight-or-flight” response and secretes increased amounts of the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline. This occurs through the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, a central hormone pathway that includes the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland, and the adrenal glands.

    HPA axis

    A prolonged stress response can disrupt the hormone levels in the body and lead to a number of different stress-induced symptoms.

    How Does Ashwagandha Work?

    Ashwagandha is a calming herb that helps support the entire HPA axis, providing a subtle balancing effect on all the systems of the body.* Ashwagandha supports the hypothalamus (included in the HPA axis), which regulates important functions such as hormone levels, temperature, and sleep cycles.*

    By restoring balance in the HPA axis and increasing resistance to stress in the body, ashwagandha helps to improve occasional sleeplessness and support stress management.*

    Patented Ashwagandha, 8x as Powerful

    Sensoril® ashwagandha is the most potent form available on the market—it is eight times the strength of standard ashwagandha. This special extract is derived from specially-grown ashwagandha leaves and roots through a patented, water-based process.

    Sensoril ashwagandha

    Sensoril® is supported by a double-blind, placebo-controlled, human clinical trial study with results that demonstrate its ability to balance the hormonal systems of the body.

    With its adaptogenic properties and clinical trial support, this ingredient provides multiple health benefits.* Sensoril® has been substantiated to provide support for the following:*

    • Stress reduction
    • Energy
    • Mental acuity and concentration
    • Healthy cardiovascular function
    • More restful sleep

    Sensoril® has one of the most comprehensive safety records of any ashwagandha extract sold.

    Suggested Serving

    The recommended serving of ashwagandha extract is 450 mg per day, standardized to 10% withanolides. Sensoril® is the only ashwagandha extract on the market that is standardized to 10% withanolides (many ashwagandha extracts on the market contain 1.5% to 3% withanolides).

    Side Effects of Ashwagandha

    Side effects of any type are unusual and mild, as ashwagandha has been used as both a food and herbal supplement for thousands of years. Ashwagandha is appropriate for men, women, and adolescents. Though ashwagandha balances the HPA axis, some individuals may experience mild stimulation.

    Caution: ashwagandha contains iron and should be avoided by individuals who retain iron (hemochromatosis). As with any natural supplement, consultation with a healthcare provider should be obtained before using during pregnancy.

     

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    The Cellular Wellness Solution

    Discover more in Dr. Bill Rawls’ new #1 Bestselling book: The Cellular Wellness Solution: Tap Into Your Full Health Potential with the Science-Backed Power of Herbs.

    An eye-opening and empowering book that the world needs right now: The Cellular Wellness Solution will fundamentally change how you think about herbs and the powerful role they play in cultivating wellness at the cellular level.”

    Mark Hyman5 stars
    Mark Hyman, MD
    Fourteen-time #1 New York Times Bestselling Author

    *This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your qualified healthcare provider before beginning any diet or program.
    About the Medical Director
    Dr. Bill Rawls
    Dr. Rawls is a licensed medical doctor in North Carolina and a leading expert in integrative health. He has extensive training in alternative therapies, and is the Medical Director of Vital Plan, a holistic health and herbal supplement company in Raleigh, NC.

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