From health shops and pharmacies to TikTok and gym locker rooms, one herbal supplement seems to be everywhere: ashwagandha. Once largely associated with traditional Ayurvedic medicine, the ancient herb has become one of South Africa's fastest-growing wellness trends. Supporters claim it helps reduce stress, improve sleep, boost energy levels, enhance gym performance and even increase testosterone. At a time when many South Africans are dealing with anxiety, burnout and financial pressure, it's not surprising that more people are looking for natural ways to cope. But as demand grows, so do questions about safety. Is ashwagandha really the stress-busting super herb it's marketed to be, or are consumers getting ahead of the science? Tonight, we unpack why South Africans are embracing ashwagandha, what the research actually says, and whether there are risks
people should know about before adding it to their daily routine.