Ashwaganda and Stress Resilience
Ashwagandha is a plant that is native to India and has been used for centuries in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. It is a member of the nightshade family, and its roots and berries are used to make a variety of medicinal products.
Ashwagandha is commonly referred to as "Indian ginseng," although it is not related to ginseng. It is often used as a general tonic to improve overall health and well-being, and it is thought to have a number of potential health benefits.
Traditionally, ashwagandha has been used to treat a wide range of conditions, including stress, anxiety, insomnia, and fatigue. It has also been used to boost the immune system, improve memory and cognitive function, and reduce inflammation. In addition, ashwagandha has been used to treat arthritis, asthma, and other respiratory conditions, as well as to improve fertility and sexual function.
There is some scientific evidence to support the use of ashwagandha for certain health conditions. For example, several studies have found that ashwagandha may be effective in reducing stress and anxiety, and it may also have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting effects. In addition, some studies have found that ashwagandha may be helpful in improving memory and cognitive function, particularly in people with dementia or Alzheimer's disease.
Ashwagandha is available in a variety of forms, including capsules, tablets, and liquid extracts. It can also be taken as a powder, which can be mixed into water or added to food. Ashwagandha is generally considered safe when taken in recommended doses, but it is not recommended for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
It is thought to have a number of potential health benefits. One area of interest in research on ashwagandha is its potential effects on hormones. Here is a summary of some of the key findings from scientific studies on the hormonal actions of ashwagandha:
Ashwagandha may help to regulate the stress hormone cortisol: Chronic stress can lead to elevated levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which can have negative effects on the body. Some studies have found that ashwagandha may help to regulate cortisol levels, leading to a reduction in stress and anxiety.
Ashwagandha may have an effect on testosterone levels: Some studies have found that ashwagandha may have a positive effect on testosterone levels in men. In a study of men with infertility, those who took ashwagandha experienced a significant increase in testosterone levels and sperm count compared to those who took a placebo.
Ashwagandha may have an effect on estrogen levels: Some studies have found that ashwagandha may have a beneficial effect on estrogen levels in women. In a study of women with breast cancer, those who took ashwagandha experienced a decrease in estrogen levels, which may have a protective effect against the development of breast cancer.
Ashwagandha may have an effect on thyroid function: The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate metabolism, and some studies have found that ashwagandha may have a positive effect on thyroid function. In a study of people with hypothyroidism, those who took ashwagandha experienced an improvement in thyroid function and a reduction in symptoms such as fatigue and weight gain.
In Ayurvedic practices, ashwagandha is often taken with food, paired with Shilajit, and it is commonly taken with breakfast. It is usually taken in the form of a powder, which can be mixed into water or added to food. It can also be taken as a capsule or tablet.
*As with any dietary supplement, it is important to talk to a healthcare professional before adding ashwaganda to your diet.