Feeling stressed? There’s an herb for that. Ashwagandha is a medicinal herb with an ancient history. With native roots in India, it has had a place in both Indian and Chinese traditional medicine for thousands of years.
With impressive health benefits, like leveling blood sugar and fighting cancer, this herb has held onto its status as a popular, daily supplement. Today, we’ll explore how it may be the key to managing stress.
Ashwagandha is an ancient herb that has been used in traditional medicine in India and China. Research has linked consumption of this herb to lower cortisol levels. Continue reading to learn how to use ashwagandha to manage stress.
Take This Herbal Supplement to Help Manage Stress.
Ashwagandha the Adaptogen
Ashwagandha is an adaptogen, or an herb that helps with the management of stress. For individuals facing chronic stress, this herb could be the key to managing the consequences of long-term stress.
One older study published in the Journal of the American Nutraceutical Association observed a significant reduction in the cortisol levels of those regularly taking a high dose of ashwagandha compared to those who took a control agent.
In 2012, 64 individuals were observed for a study of the effects of ashwagandha on stress and anxiety. After 60 days, the group taking a full-spectrum ashwagandha supplement had much-improved scores on an assessment measuring stress.
How to Start Taking Ashwagandha
While ashwagandha isn’t generally recommended for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, have an autoimmune disorder or are prescribed thyroid medication, it is considered to be safe for everyone else. Research has observed lowered blood sugar in individuals using ashwagandha, so those who are being treated for diabetes may need to make adjustments to their medication with their doctor’s help.
Extracts are the recommended form of ashwagandha, according to Healthline. The suggested serving is typically between 450 and 500 milligrams one to two times a day.
Not a Magic Pill
Like any medication or treatment for managing stress, ashwagandha is not a magic pill that can erase stress from your life. In addition to using the supplement to deal with the difficult circumstances you cannot change, it is always recommended that you make adjustments to your lifestyle to lower stress. This could mean changing the way you work, increasing exercise and setting boundaries in difficult relationships.
Ashwagandha may be an ideal option for the right candidate. Be sure to discuss this herb with your doctor to find out if it may be a good fit for you.
~ Here’s to Your Healthy Ascension!
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