In this video, the pharmacist discusses the benefits of ashwagandha, a plant native to India and North Africa. Ashwagandha is known as an adaptogen, believed to help the body manage stress better. The video explores the science behind ashwagandha, its effects on stress reduction, and how to take it. The studies mentioned suggest that ashwagandha can reduce perceived stress levels and decrease cortisol levels in individuals with chronic stress. However, the pharmacist advises caution and recommends consulting a doctor before taking any supplements. The video emphasizes the importance of seeking help for chronic stress and highlights that herbal supplements are not FDA-regulated.
Key Insights:
- Ashwagandha, also known as withinia simnifera, is a small woody plant with yellow flowers native to India and North Africa.
- Ashwagandha is an adaptogen and is believed to help the body manage stress better.
- It is best known for its stress-lowering effects.
- Ashwagandha has been used in Ayurvedic medicine in India for thousands of years.
- Adaptogens are herbal aids that support the body in reacting to and recovering from physical or mental stress.
- Scientific studies suggest that ashwagandha may be beneficial for stress reduction.
- Two studies have shown that ashwagandha root extract significantly reduces perceived stress levels and cortisol levels in adults with chronic stress.
- Ashwagandha root extract may also prevent stress-related weight gain.
- Ashwagandha is believed to work by suppressing stress-induced increases in dopamine receptors in the brain.
- There is no standard dosage for ashwagandha, but studies suggest a dosage of 300 milligrams twice a day after food.
- Ashwagandha is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, those with autoimmune diseases, type 1 diabetes, or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
- Ashwagandha may interact with medications for diabetes, blood pressure, thyroid, and benzodiazepines.
- It is important to seek help and look for additional methods to tackle chronic stress.
- Ashwagandha and other Ayurvedic herbs are not FDA regulated, so it is important to discuss with a doctor and choose reliable, third-party tested products.
Transcript
Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera, is a small woody plant with yellow flowers native to India and North Africa. It is considered an adaptogen, believed to help the body manage stress better, and is well-known for its stress-lowering effects. In this video, we will discuss what ashwagandha is, how it works for stress, the science behind it, how to take it, and what to watch out for.
The name „ashwagandha“ comes from the Sanskrit language and is a combination of the words „ashva,“ meaning horse, and „ganda,“ meaning smell. The root of the plant has a strong aroma described as a horse-like smell.
Scientific studies have suggested that ashwagandha may be beneficial for various conditions, although it’s important to note that not all studies suggesting benefits are conclusive. The most significant studies have focused on its use for stress reduction.
There is evidence to support the use of ashwagandha for stress, with studies showing reduced perceived stress levels and decreased cortisol levels (a stress hormone) in individuals with chronic stress. It has also been shown to prevent stress-related weight gain.
Ashwagandha has been used in Ayurvedic medicine in India for thousands of years and is considered an adaptogenic herb. Adaptogens are herbal aids that support the body in reacting to and recovering from physical or mental stress.
However, more research is still needed before ashwagandha can be widely recommended for treating stress and anxiety. It should not replace any medications prescribed by your doctor, and it is crucial to continue your regular routine of medicine.
The recommended dosage of ashwagandha is not standardized based on modern clinical trials, but the studies for stress reduction used 300 milligrams of ashwagandha root extract twice a day, taken after food. Some products may contain higher doses, so it is essential to follow the directions on the label of the supplement you choose.
Ashwagandha is not suitable for everyone, particularly pregnant or breastfeeding women, individuals with autoimmune diseases, type 1 diabetes, and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. It also interacts with certain medications for diabetes, blood pressure, thyroid, and benzodiazepines. Therefore, it’s important to consult your doctor before taking ashwagandha.
While ashwagandha may help with stress, it is essential to seek help if your stress has taken over your daily routine. There are multiple options available for managing stress, and your doctor can guide you towards the most suitable approach for you.
It is important to note that Ayurvedic herbs, including ashwagandha, are not FDA regulated like pharmaceutical companies and food producers. Therefore, it is crucial to discuss any supplements with your doctor and choose products that have been tested and verified by a reliable third-party for purity.
Remember, one supplement alone cannot prevent all the negative impacts of stress, and seeking professional help is always recommended.
