How Ashwagandha Powder Can Help with Stress and Anxiety
- Written by Telegraph Magazine
Millions of individuals worldwide suffer from stress and anxiety as serious mental health problems. Although there are various pharmacological choices for treating these diseases, many opt for natural therapies instead due to concerns over side effects. Ashwagandha powder, made from an Indian medicinal mushroom, is one such treatment that has become popular in recent years. In this article, we'll discuss the benefits of ashwagandha powder for stress and anxiety and why more and more people are turning to it as a natural means of coping with these issues.
Understanding the Benefits of Ashwagandha Powder
The adaptogenic herb ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera) has a long history of usage in Ayurvedic medicine. Mainly, it's used to lower cortisol levels, a hormone the body produces when under pressure. Ashwagandha has been linked to improved cognitive performance and reduced inflammation.
Ashwagandha Powder Stress and Anxiety Benefits
Brings Down Cortisol Levels
Cortisol is the "stress hormone" because it is secreted in reaction to emotional or physical stress. Weight gain, elevated blood pressure, and impaired immunity are only some of the unfavourable outcomes of chronic cortisol production. The use of ashwagandha powder has been linked to lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol.
Reduces Inflammation
Stress and anxiety are among the many health issues that have been related to chronic inflammation. The anti-inflammatory qualities of ashwagandha powder make it helpful in treating inflammation. Ashwagandha's anti-inflammatory properties make it a useful treatment for stress and anxiety, among other health benefits.
Aids Cognitive Performance
Using ashwagandha powder has been linked to an enhanced cognitive performance by lowering inflammation and oxidative stress levels. Ashwagandha supplements have been demonstrated to enhance learning capacity, working memory, and reaction time. Improved concentration and clarity of thought might be helpful for people struggling to cope with stress and worry.
Enhances Sleep
Insomnia or a disruption in your normal sleep cycle might result from stress and anxiety. Evidence suggests that ashwagandha powder's calming and stress-reducing properties make it an effective sleep aid.
Supports Adrenal Health
The adrenal glands produce hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, which play an important part in the body's response to stress. Adrenal fatigue occurs when the adrenal glands become overworked and unable to produce enough hormones, as might happen in cases of chronic stress. By lowering stress and increasing the body's resilience to stress, ashwagandha powder can help the adrenal glands function well. This is a great way to boost your health and stave against adrenal exhaustion.
Boosts GABA Concentrations
The neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) can control anxiety and stress. Anxiety and depression are common in those with low GABA levels. The use of ashwagandha powder has been linked to higher levels of the neurotransmitter GABA, which has been found to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.
Improves Mood
The antidepressant properties of ashwagandha powder have been demonstrated by its ability to lower anxiety and boost cognitive performance. Those who suffer from stress and anxiety may find that this helps them feel calmer and better about themselves.
Ashwagandha Powder Use for Anxiety and Stress
Ashwagandha powder is sold as capsules, tinctures, and teas, among other products. Always check with your doctor before starting any new supplement, and make sure to take the product exactly as directed. Medications, including sedatives and thyroid hormone replacement treatment, may not mix well with ashwagandha powder.