The TikTok girlies have discovered an ancient herb that allegedly helps with their long-distance relationships (LDRs). Experts weigh in on the benefits of ashwagandha in coping with stressful situations and the risks associated with relying on supplements for your relationship. Read more about the viral trending topic inside.

Someone let the TikTokers find out about the ashwagandha. They are turning to the herb often used in Ayurvedic medicine to help relieve them of the stress that comes with managing a LDR and regulating their emotions while their partners are miles away.

Some TikTok users claim that they’re not “crying as much anymore” thanks to the helpful supplement.

What exactly is ashwagandha?

According to WebMD, ashwagandha is an evergreen shrub that grows in Asia and Africa. It is commonly used for stress. There is little evidence for its use as an “adaptogen.”

Yet, this is what the wellness world might refer to it as, an adaptogen, which is a fancier way of saying it helps your body deal with stress.

It is a beloved herb in Ayurvedic medicine and notable used for those dealing with anxiety and supporting overall emotional well-being. So, the girls and guys using it for their LDRs makes sense, but it makes us wonder how healthy a relationship is if you need additional supplements to experience it.

How’s ashwagandha for LDRs become a trending topic?

Well, the herb is said to lower your cortisol levels, also known as the stress hormone. The idea of taking the herb relieves the pressure for those who are working to commit to their long-distance bae who may be time zones away.

A long distance relationship can be taxing on a relationship when you aren’t able to spend time together or your schedules are difficult to keep in sync. Are they truly busy, tired or preoccupied? Or are they spending time with someone closer?

Instead of constantly worrying about whether your significant other is blowing you off for someone else because they are across the country, the girlies and guys are popping ashwagandha like skittles as a “healthy” distraction to better their moods.

When you’re less stressed, it’s easier to be happy with your reality and maintain a more positive outlook.

Still, is the LDR worth an additional supplement?

We don’t know sis/bro. It feels a little strange that people are turning to a daily dose of ashwagandha to relieve something that should feel easeful. While it may help relieve the stress temporarily, the root of the problem still exists. Issues of trust, communication and distance are still going to be constant factors in the relationship whether you take ashwagandha for the rest of your life.

So, while the supplement is safe and fine to help you cope, maybe start with the root so you aren’t relying on an herb to create happiness in your long distance relationship.