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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
More in Mind & Mental
-
`
Meet the Woman Who ALMOST Married Barack Obama
Barack Obama’s life has been a captivating narrative, often told and retold, with each revelation adding layers of intrigue to his...
November 5, 2023 -
`
The Rise of Caviar Bumps, Thanks to Gen Z
In an intriguing twist of culinary culture, millennials and Gen Zers are drawn to an unusual indulgence – fish eggs, or...
October 28, 2023 -
`
Everything You Need to Know About Acid Reflux, Heartburn and GERD
Ever had that burning-in-the-chest sensation after a meal? Or perhaps you have lain awake at night with an odd sour taste...
October 17, 2023 -
`
Best AI Apps for Mental Health
Mental health has long been a topic of discussion and concern. With technological advancements, AI (Artificial Intelligence) has emerged as a...
October 10, 2023 -
`
Jamie Watson: The Man Behind Jamie Lynn Spears’ Heart
Jamie Lynn Spears, the talented actress and sister of pop sensation Britney Spears, has a rock in her life that she...
October 6, 2023 -
`
3 Drawbacks of Dollar Stores You Never Knew
If you’re all about saving a buck or two, you’re probably quite thankful for those dollar stores in your neighborhood. As...
October 1, 2023 -
`
Is Coffee a Dehydrating Agent? Learn the Science Behind It
Coffee is an essential part of daily life for millions of people around the world. From a quick pick-me-up in the...
September 19, 2023 -
`
Why Crying Is Good for You
Crying is a fundamental human experience, often associated with sadness, frustration, or distress. However, tears are not just a display of...
September 14, 2023 -
`
The Lesser-Known Positive Aspects of Anxiety
Anxiety can be a debilitating disorder, causing those who suffer from it to live in constant fear of the unknown. However,...
September 5, 2023
You must be logged in to post a comment Login