Ashwagandha and the Reduction of Stress/Anxiety.
I'm very excited to talk about stress, anxiety, and a natural supplement called Ashwagandha. This herb has been used for over 3,000 years by indigenous and Hindu populations. Ashwagandha is a small shrub found in Central/South Asia and Africa. It is known as an adaptogen, which helps the body manage stress without side effects and supports the body's ability to cope with stress.
This helps with stress because it's an adaptogen, which can support stress management by balancing cortisol levels. Stress and anxiety impact cortisol, a stress hormone that adaptogens can help regulate.
Our bodies react to stress like being chased to protect us. The brain's alarm system triggers hormones like adrenaline and cortisol from the adrenal glands.
Adrenaline is a powerful hormone that significantly impacts your body's functions when faced with stress. It plays a vital role in increasing your heart rate, raising blood pressure, and providing a surge of energy. Additionally, cortisol, another key stress hormone, works alongside adrenaline by boosting glucose levels in the blood, improving brain function, and facilitating tissue repair. Moreover, cortisol helps prioritize essential bodily functions during moments of fight-or-flight responses by suppressing noncritical systems like digestion, reproduction, and growth. This intricate alarm system also interacts with brain areas responsible for regulating emotions, drive, and fear perception, showcasing the interconnection of our physical and mental well-being.
You realize that it’s only baby poodles and turn around to gently toss a twig in their direction; sensing no threat, they quickly retreat. Now, as evolution has designed for our survival, within just a few minutes, your body and all its functions gradually return to a state of equilibrium. The adrenal glands effectively decrease the release of adrenaline and cortisol, allowing your system to regain balance. Your body efficiently metabolizes the excess cortisol and blood glucose, restoring harmony and tranquility. And so, the brief episode concludes, demonstrating the remarkable resilience and self-regulating capabilities of the human body.
What if we were chased by animals on a daily basis, or worse, what if our environment, encompassing our job, family dynamics, food choices, and constant exposure to distressing news, kept us in a perpetual state of fight-or-flight, leaving our bodies on high alert at all times? This unfortunate scenario is a reality for many individuals. Despite the sharpness of our minds, evolution has hardwired us this way, triggering these primal responses whether faced with a genuine threat or merely a temporary social media restriction. Alarmingly, a staggering 264 million people worldwide are currently grappling with the effects of anxiety and depression, highlighting the urgent need for holistic approaches to mental health and wellness.
Can a natural herb such as ashwagandha be beneficial in managing and reducing stress in our daily lives? Ashwagandha, known for its adaptogenic properties, works to combat stress hormones and support our energy levels, assisting our systems in recovering from exhaustion to maintain optimal functioning. Research suggests that ashwagandha root extract may inhibit the brain's stress response pathway by enhancing inhibitory signaling, potentially contributing to its anxiety-reducing effects and lowering cortisol levels. Additionally, incorporating ashwagandha into our routine could potentially contribute to regulating healthy blood sugar levels, offering a holistic approach to overall well-being.
I won’t delve into the specifics of dosage and timing, as these aspects are best discussed with your healthcare provider. Stress levels vary among individuals, making it crucial to have an open dialogue with your medical practitioner. Ashwagandha powders and extracts are derived from either the plant's leaves or roots, each carrying distinct levels of active compounds that contribute to its mental and physical effects. It is important to be discerning of the marketing surrounding this product, as some companies may prioritize profit over quality. When considering Ashwagandha products, remember to scrutinize labels for the following key information.
Withanolide A is the more concentrated root of ashwagandha, known as the "top shelf" choice. When selecting a supplement, ensure the bottle is certified branded after thorough research into its herbs. Withanolide A is approximately 10% more potent than non-branded extracts, with non-branded versions typically ranging from 0-3% potency.
Withaferin A is derived from the leaves of the ashwagandha plant, offering decent benefits though not as potent as Withanolide A. It's important to note that individuals allergic to nightshades like eggplants should avoid this supplement. Given ashwagandha's impact on blood glucose levels and blood pressure, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating it into your routine.
