Anxiety And The Natural Power Of Plants
After taking a look at Lemon Balm and learning how it can be implemented as a natural avenue for conquering anxiety, we will continue this series through this in-depth review of another valued plant: Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera), a popular Ayurvedic herb from the traditional Hindu system of medicine, has an expansive history, prescribed by holistic practitioners to bolster the immune system after an illness. Commonly known as winter cherry, this perennial is also an adaptogen: a non-toxic plant that helps the body resist and adapt to stressors. The medicinal properties of its roots and leaves benefit three key systems of the body: immune, neurological and endocrine.
The power of this revered nervine is its ability to lower cortisol levels and regulate the body through homeostasis (to maintain a state of steady internal stability). Ashwagandha stabilizes hormones through thyroid function and has been used to minimize the negative impact of mood disorders, stress-induced insomnia and abating depression. As the HPA (hypothalamic pituitary adrenal) axis is balanced, one’s ability to cope and combat stress is improved.
Emerging Research
Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies (RDBPC) are significant by cause of eliminating the influence of unknown or confounding variables.
One RDBPC found Ashwagandha extract successfully combats and significantly reduces stress and anxiety. This study concluded that Ashwagandha effectively improved self-assessed quality of life.
Another study found that once participants began taking ashwagandha, their psychological tests experienced a 72% drop in anxiety and general well-being as well as a 44% drop in stress.
Results have even found this herb to reverse damage from long periods of intense stress. We continue to learn about its many benefits through various clinical trials.
Benefits
Ashwagandha has shown positive results in lowering cholesterol, stabilizing blood sugar, and reducing brain cell degeneration. Ashwagandha has been studied as a possible approach to preventing and treating cancer, resulting in antineoplastic (anti-cancer) development and the reduction of chemotherapy-induced immunosuppression. It is a traditional and effective botanical aid for pain relief. Ashwagandha’s adaptogenic, neuroprotective attributes are as valuable as its anti-anxiety and anti-inflammatory properties. This ensures ashwagandha is a favoured option for alternative medicine.
Conclusion
While Ashwagandha has anxiety-preventive attributes, there are additional benefits to reap which makes it an advantageous naturopathic choice in conquering anxiety naturally.
Ashwagandha is only one of the many anxiolytic herbs available to us. If you are interested in learning more about the power of plants, visit us next week as we take an in-depth look at how Lemon Balm can positively impact your life.
*While herbal medicine acts on the same pathways as pharmaceuticals, it is still important to converse with a qualified health practitioner about the safety, dosage, quality and effectiveness of your preferred herbs.
