Navigating Stress & Anxiety with Ashwagandha
As someone who has drastically reduced my anxiety via hypnosis, the ups and downs of COVID-19 have tested me. I do believe what we mentally ingest is just as important as our physical intake. Over the last few months, I've been testing the impact of nutrition on my overall wellbeing, and I’ll be sharing my experiences with you.
Ashwagandha is likely one of those buzzy cure-alls for stress and sleep that you've considered. If you're like me, you've wondered whether this adaptogen (aka medicinal "super" herb) is worth the investment. Between my hypnosis practice, lifestyle changes, and the use of Ashwagandha products, I've been able to keep my anxiety and stress levels in check. So check this out for yourself!
BRIEF HISTORY |
Ayurveda, the traditional medicine system practiced in India, has used Ashwagandha (known as Indian ginseng) since 6000 BC for its properties that assist with stress, sleep, and libido.
Ashwagandha means "smell of a horse," and yes, some of the products on the market do smell kind of horsey, but the powerful herb was intended to give someone the strength and stamina of a horse.
SCIENTIFIC PROOF |
And like with most ancient remedies, scientific research has finally lent real credibility to this root. In a randomized study of 64 subjects over 60 days, Ashwagandha reduced cortisol levels by 20% more than the placebo. Meaning it helped the body gently down-regulate in moments of high psychosomatic stress when one's fight, flight, or freeze response could be activated. People also self-reported a 44% reduction in stress vs the placebo group at 5.5%.
Now, stress and the release of cortisol are quite helpful at times in our life, but chronic stress can wreak havoc on bodies long-term, leading to gastrointestinal issues and a weakened immune system.
In other studies, Ashwagandha was also found to aid in the prevention of stress-induced ulcers.
Now, I do want to add that too much of any herb can lead to issues follow recommended doses, and you should always speak to your medical doctor if you’re already taking other medications or have concerns.
HOW IT WORKS |
Over a 30-day use, Ashwagandha helps increase Super Oxide Dismutase and Catalase - two antioxidant enzymes that fight oxidative stress by destroying cellular hydrogen peroxide to produce water and oxygen. Deficiencies in these enzymes are often related to degenerative diseases like hypertension Alzheimer's disease, cancer, and bipolar disorder.
Ashwagandha also regulates GABA and serotonin's release and reuptake, which calms you down and regulates your mood.
MY FAVS |
SAKARA Dark Chocolate Granola - $16
This one is amazing, and it tastes delicious with ingredients like Ashwagandha, Dark Cacao, and Brazil Nuts. I have 1/2 cup of it for breakfast with some almond milk at least once a week, and I eat a handful of it as an afternoon snack most days.
Psst, use my code XONICOLEH at checkout to save 20% on your first order.
YOURSUPER.COM Magic Mushroom Mix - $37
If you are looking for a healthy substitute for your coffee or hot chocolate, this is it. The Magic Mushroom Mix tastes like hot chocolate with a pinch of cinnamon. Mix a teaspoon of the powder with warm almond milk (add Stevia if you'd like). This is my go-to on cooler evenings when I want to feel like I've indulged without sugar and calories. Ingredients include Cacao, Chaga, Ashwagandha, Reishi, Lucumaand Cinnamon.
HUM Raw Beauty Vanilla & Berry - $39
A scoop a day may keep you feeling better than okay. This powder is a great addition to your daily routine if you want to add a little more power to your water or shakes. It is on the sweet side, and it's a strange brownish-green color. However, it includes several powerhouse ingredients, including Ashwagandha, Wheat Grass, Barley Grass, Spirulina, Rhodiola Rosea Root Powder, Apple Pectin, and more!
DISCLOSURE: I may be an affiliate for some of the products I recommend on my blog. If you purchase those items through my links or discount codes, I will earn a very small commission. You will NEVER pay more when buying a product through my link. I frequently negotiate a discount or bonus for my readers when possible. Plus, when you order through my link it helps support my growing team to continue creating free content that supports your own journey. !
