NoonBrew October 26, 2022

The Benefits of Ashwagandha - Can This Plant Reduce Stress and Make You More Productive?

Stress is a common element of daily life that’s hard to avoid. It can zap your energy and tear apart your focus. It would be nice if there was a natural remedy to help ease that stress.

But wait…is there one?

Well, there are a lot of claims that ashwagandha is that remedy and today we’re going to find out whether or not that has any scientific truth.

What is Ashwagandha?

Widely known in Indian medicine, ashwagandha is an effective herb known as Withania somnifera and traditionally it is used for a wide range of diseases and conditions. In Western society, ashwagandha is gaining ground for its potential benefits on stress, anxiety, and energy-boosting effects. With these potential ashwagandha upsides, this powerful herb is one of the most effective adaptogens that adults can use each day.

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What Does Ashwagandha Do? – Its Effect on the Body

An adaptogen is a natural substance that allows the mind and body to adapt to a stressor. Ashwagandha is considered an adaptogen since it aids in reducing the amount of stress the mind and body perceives. Fortunately, ashwagandha has a wide range of potential benefits that can help you to be at your best.

What are the Proven Benefits of Ashwagandha?

Reducing anxiety

Does Ashwagandha help with anxiety? Several studies provide promising results. One article that was published in the peer-reviewed journal ‘AJTCAM’ took a look at several animal and human trials around ashwagandha. Some of this plant’s promising effects include lower stress, increased stamina, increased energy, and improved memory. But returning to the point, it was also noted that ashwagandha induces a calm anxiety-reducing effect on the body, similar to the anti-anxiety drug Lorazepam.[1] 

Reducing stress 

Cortisol is the primary stress hormone that circulates in your body whenever you are under stress. Research shows ashwagandha used as a stress aid can significantly decrease cortisol levels when compared to control groups[2]—suggesting it is ideal for times you are under pressure at work, under a deadline, or just feel generally overwhelmed.

Increased Testosterone 

Recent studies have shown using ashwagandha can have about a 15%[3] increase in testosterone when compared to control groups. This rise in testosterone for men has also the added benefits of increased energy and fertility, as well as burning more body fat.

How to Take Ashwagandha (And In What Dosage?)

While there is no universal or standard suggested dose, ashwagandha is safe anywhere from 500 milligrams per day to up to 6 grams[4]. Commonly, starting with about 500 milligrams daily is a safe bet and adjust as necessary. If you have any concerns, consult your physician.

Did you know you could consume ashwagandha in tea form?

Most people already know you can consume ashwagandha in capsule or powder form but our favorite method is through a delicious iced tea! NoonBrew makes it easier than ever! Simply mix our NoonBrew powder with water and in minutes you have a beverage that contains ashwagandha as well as 18 other incredible superfoods.

Do I Take Ashwagandha in the Morning or Night?

There is no best time to take ashwagandha, but early in the day is generally optimal to combat fatigue. Taking it at night could help improve sleep quality given its relaxing effects.

References

  1. Singh, N; Bhalla, M; de Jager, P; Gilca, M. (2011). An Overview on Ashwagandha: A Rasayana (Rejuvenator) of Ayurveda. African Journal of Traditional Compliment Alternative Medicine. Issue 8, 208-213. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3252722/
  2. Chandrasekhar, K; Kapoor, J; Anishetty, S (2012). A Prospective, Randomized Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of Safety and Efficacy of a High-Concentration Full-Spectrum Extract of Ashwagandha Root in Reducing Stress and Anxiety in Adults. Indian Journal Of Psychologic Medicine. Issue 34 (3), 255-262. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3573577/
  3. Lopresti, A; Drummond, P; Smith, S (2019). A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Study Examining the Hormonal and Vitality Effects of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in Aging, Overweight Males. American journal of Men’s Health, 13(2). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6438434/
  4. WebMD. (n.d.). Ashwagandha: Herbal information from WebMD. WebMD. Retrieved October 26, 2022, from https://www.webmd.com/diet/supplement-guide-ashwagandha

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