Say hello to our friend Maggie and check out our interview with her about all things wellness when it comes to plants, sustainability and overall health.

We all know some of the basics of living with the power of the summer sun, such as avoiding the heat of the day, staying hydrated, using healthy sunblock and wearing a hat. Once you’ve got your sun protection game worked out, it’s time to take it to the next level with cooling plants and icy herbal preparations to combat the inflammation that can build up when things get steamy.

According to Ayurveda, this tonic gives the strength and stamina of a horse. In contrast, its Latin name, withania somnifera, translates as sleep inducing, due to its calming effect on the nerves. This dual action of both increasing energy and decreasing anxiety, makes Ashwaganda root an ideal adaptogenic food to add to the modern diet. It has a sweet earthy flavor that blends well with a variety of foods making it easy to incorporate.