If the Everyday Stress is getting Too Much to Handle, try Ashwagandha to Soothe Your Mind

The desire to excel in life has reached gigantic proportions in all individuals. And as if everyday work-life hustle wasn’t enough, public health experts warn that Coronavirus might have damaging consequences on people’s mental health like mood swings, depression, and stress. In such a setting, seeking ways to soothe the mind and soul become imperative.

According to Ayurveda, one of the traditional ways to combat stress is through botanicals. The beneficial oils present in herbs can heal many diseases, including anxiety and depression. If you’re a little too stressed out, the magical herb Ashwagandha (scientific name: Withania somnifera) seems to be a great help.

science.howstuffworks | The medicinal plant Ashwagandha is proven to help with stress management

What is Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha is a medicinal plant native to India and North Africa. It has been traditionally used as an adaptogen to manage stress. It’s a small evergreen shrub whose roots and berries are used to make medicine. Also known as the “Indian Winter Cherry” or “Indian Ginseng,” this ancient medicinal herb can be consumed after the root is ground into a fine powder. You can even mix Ashwagandha powder with water or honey, among others.

Read – Ashwagandha Dosage

How does Ashwagandha act as a stress supplement?

Boosts brain functioning

Ashwagandha provides numerous benefits to the body and brain. The chemicals in this herb might help calm the mind and expand its operation. Not only does it relieve stress, but it also increases energy levels and improves concentration. The shrub is also linked to fighting inflammation and tumor growth.

medicalnewstoday | The herb is consumed after its root is ground into a fine powder

Reduces blood sugar levels

The herb lowers blood pressure and alters the immune system. Research suggests that Ashwagandha increases insulin secretion and improved insulin sensitivity in muscle cells. However, there’s quite less scientific evidence to support this claim.

Anticancer properties

Withaferin, the bioactive compound in Ashwagandha, aids in inducing apoptosis, which helps kill cancer cells. Hence, the herb impedes the growth of new cancer cells. Withaferin promotes the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) inside cancer cells, disrupting their function. The research is based on several animal and test-tube studies.

Can diminish cortisol levels

Ashwagandha supplements are known to reduce cortisol levels and swelling (inflammation). Cortisol is the stress hormone that is usually released by the adrenal glands in response to stress, and also when the blood sugar levels get too low.

If cortisol levels become chronically elevated, the blood sugar levels escalate. Hence the fat storage in the abdomen also increases. As per research, Ashwagandha supplements may help lower cortisol levels in chronically stressed individuals.

healthline | Ashwagandha supplements can benefit the body immensely, but you should consult your doctor before taking them

Read – Other Vitamins and Supplements to Combat Stress

To Conclude

It is common for people to get stressed out about almost every situation in life. It would be best if you found some calm to combat the effects of the storm. The botanical supplements available in capsule form or edible powder may benefit you to the most. Undoubtedly, Ashwagandha can be of great help in beating stress, but you must consult any healthcare practitioner before consuming Ashwagandha supplements.