Ashwagandha To Ease Stress And Anxiety

Ashwagandha is an ancient medicinal herb that has long been used in traditional Indian medicine (Ayurvedic medicine). The scientific name of Ashwagandha isWithania Somnifera.It is also called Indian ginseng or winter cherry. While this herb is said to have numerous, amazing health benefits such as the ability to stabilise blood sugar and boost brain function, what makes it extremely popular is its potent adaptogenic properties.

Adaptogens are certain herbs that have properties that help the body adjust to physical, chemical, or biological stress. They promote the stabilisation of physiological processes and regulate the body’s stress response to help it return to a balanced state called "homeostasis."

When the body is constantly under stress, there is overproduction of hormones that disrupt "homeostasis." Cortisol is the hormone secreted by the adrenal gland to regulate important bodily processes including metabolism and immune response. It also plays a significant role in helping the body respond to stress.

Cortisol’s function, among others, is to shut down non-essential functions in a fight or flight situation and redirect the body towards self preservation. Thus, functions like immune system response, reproduction, digestion, and growth - all deemed non-essential when the body is in “danger'' - are suppressed. Long term exposure to this stress hormone impairs bodily functions and puts you at risk of developing many health problems such as:

• Sleep problems such as insomnia
• Weight gain/loss
• Memory impairment
• Headaches
• Anxiety 
• Depression
• Heart disease
• Muscle tension
• Fatigue
• High blood pressure
• Digestive problems

Ashwagandha is among a supplement class called adaptogens that can bring balance back to your body. In 2019, a small clinical study involving the efficacy of Ashwagandha in the reduction of stress and anxiety of 58 participants, was run over a period of 8 weeks. The participants’ cortisol levels were monitored and those who took Ashwagandha showed a reduction of the stress hormone compared to those who took the placebo. Those who took Ashwagandha also reported a bonus effect of having improved sleep quality.

Ashwagandha can help people who suffer from chronic stress by lowering their cortisol levels without adverse effects. This reduction in stress hormones mitigates the consequences of stress like anxiety, sleeplessness, irritability, and the inability to concentrate. 

Ashwagandha is safe for most people and can be taken in powder form, liquid form, or in the form of supplements. If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, nursing, or have other health concerns, please consult your doctor before starting to take Ashwagandha.

Vanilla Happy and Latte Liberate with Ashwagandha

Our best selling hormone balancing formulas both include Ashwangandha. Vanilla Happy is perfect for those wanting balance, whilst Latte Liberate is best for those who have entered menopause or experience severe hot flashes.