Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera, is an adaptogenic herb that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries to help the body cope with stress, boost energy levels, and promote overall well-being. In recent years, researchers have been exploring the potential anti-depressant and anxiolytic properties of Ashwagandha, and the results have been promising.

 

Ashwagandha and it’s Anti-Anxiety Properties

Anxiety is a common mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While there are several conventional treatments available, some individuals may prefer natural remedies to manage their symptoms. Ashwagandha has been shown to have anxiolytic effects, meaning that it may help to reduce symptoms of anxiety.

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology found that a group of individuals with moderate to severe anxiety who received an Ashwagandha extract had a significant reduction in anxiety symptoms compared to the placebo group. The study measured anxiety levels using the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A), which is a commonly used tool to assess anxiety severity. The results showed that the group taking the Ashwagandha extract had a 56.5% reduction in their HAM-A scores, while the placebo group had a 30.5% reduction.

So how does Ashwagandha work to reduce anxiety symptoms? It’s believed that Ashwagandha may regulate the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin, dopamine, and GABA. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, while dopamine is associated with pleasure and reward. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that helps to calm the brain and reduce anxiety. By regulating these neurotransmitters, Ashwagandha may help to reduce anxiety symptoms and promote feelings of calm and relaxation.

 

Ashwagandha and and it’s Antidepressant Properties

 

Depression is another common mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While there are several conventional treatments available, some individuals may prefer natural remedies to manage their symptoms. Ashwagandha has been shown to have antidepressant effects, meaning that it may help to reduce symptoms of depression.

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that Ashwagandha root extract was effective in reducing symptoms of depression in individuals with mild to moderate depression. The study measured depression levels using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), which is a commonly used tool to assess depression severity. The results showed that the group taking the Ashwagandha root extract had a 79% reduction in their BDI scores, while the placebo group had a 10% reduction.

So how does Ashwagandha work to reduce depression symptoms? Like with anxiety, it’s believed that Ashwagandha may regulate the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin, dopamine, and GABA. By regulating these neurotransmitters, Ashwagandha may help to reduce symptoms of depression and improve mood.

 

Precautions and Considerations

While Ashwagandha is generally considered safe, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any new dietary supplement, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications. Additionally, it’s important to follow the recommended dosage on the label and not exceed it.

Ashwagandha may also interact with certain medications, If you are taking any medications, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking Ashwagandha.

 

Lastly, it’s important to note that natural remedies like Ashwagandha should not be used as a substitute for conventional treatments for anxiety and depression. If you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression, it’s important to seek professional help and explore all available treatment options.

 

Conclusion

Ashwagandha is a natural remedy that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries to promote overall well-being. Recent research has shown that Ashwagandha may have antidepressant and anxiolytic properties, making it a potential natural remedy for individuals experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression.

 

Overall, Ashwagandha may be a helpful complementary approach to conventional treatments for anxiety and depression. By regulating neurotransmitters in the brain, Ashwagandha may help to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression and promote feelings of calm and relaxation.