Under Attack by Stress and Cortisol? Reclaim Calm Days and Deep Sleep with the Benefits of Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha fruit just starting to grow
(Source : https://www.nccih.nih.gov )


Hello.

Your body feels heavy as lead, yet your mind races with a thousand worries, keeping you from sleep. It's the paradox of stress that every modern person has experienced. What if there was an ancient wisdom that could break this vicious cycle of stress and chronic fatigue? Today, I want to talk about a herb known as 'Indian Ginseng,' which has been used for thousands of years to balance mind and body: Ashwagandha.


"Turn off the switch of stress with the ancient wisdom of Ashwagandha."



Ripening fruit on the ashwagandha tree
(Source : https://flarer.ch/ )




How does Ashwagandha help restore our body's balance?

Ashwagandha is a leading example of an 'Adaptogen,' a substance that increases resistance to stress. It's a smart herb that helps our body 'adapt' better to stressful situations.

[Summary of Benefits]

  • Stress relief and stabilization of cortisol levels
  • Improved sleep quality and relief from insomnia
  • Reduced chronic fatigue and increased energy
  • Enhanced male vitality and physical performance

1. Stress Relief and Cortisol Stabilization (Core Benefit)
When we are stressed, our body releases a stress hormone called 'cortisol.' While appropriate levels of cortisol keep us alert, excessive secretion due to chronic stress becomes the main cause of anxiety, fatigue, and insomnia.

Ashwagandha directly helps to stabilize these cortisol levels. It regulates our body's response to stressful situations, preventing overreaction and helping to maintain a state of calm.


2. Improved Sleep Quality
"High cortisol levels at night prevent deep sleep." This is the core principle behind stress-induced insomnia. Ashwagandha helps lower evening cortisol levels and positively influences GABA receptors, which calm the brain, helping you fall asleep easily, stay asleep through the night, and achieve deep, restorative sleep.


3. Reduced Chronic Fatigue and Increased Energy
Constant stress and shallow sleep deplete our body's energy, leading to chronic fatigue and burnout. Ashwagandha prevents unnecessary energy expenditure by reducing the stress response and allows the body to recover properly through deep sleep. This, in turn, boosts daytime vitality and concentration.


4. Enhanced Male Vitality
Traditionally, Ashwagandha has been used to replenish men's energy and strengthen reproductive function. In addition to its stress-reducing effects, studies have shown that it can help maintain healthy levels of the male hormone testosterone, which may positively impact athletic performance and overall male vitality.


Ashwagandha harvested by farmers
(Source : https://www.reverencebotanicals.com )



Precautions for Ashwagandha Intake (Are there any side effects?)

As it is a potent herb, you should consume it with an understanding of your own body's condition.

[Summary of Precautions]

  • Should be avoided by pregnant and breastfeeding women.
  • Patients with autoimmune diseases must consult a professional.
  • Use with caution if you have a thyroid condition or are taking related medications.
  • Stop taking at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Since Ashwagandha can activate the immune system, patients with autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus must consult their doctor before taking it. It can also affect thyroid hormone levels, so caution is needed for those with related conditions.


Ashwagandha and dried root
( Source : https://www.centrum.com/ )



How can you take Ashwagandha effectively? (How to Take)

Ashwagandha is usually consumed in capsule or powder form, derived from the root extract.

  • Timing Based on Your Goal
    • For Stress Relief and Daytime Vitality: Taking it after breakfast can help increase your resilience to stress throughout the day.
    • For Improved Sleep Quality: Taking it after dinner or 1-2 hours before bed is effective for promoting relaxation and inducing restful sleep.

  • Dosage and Form
    • A daily intake of 300-600 mg of a standardized extract is generally recommended. It's best to start with a lower dose and adjust while monitoring your body's response.
    • Products that use trademarked extracts like KSM-66 or Sensoril, which guarantee the content of active ingredients, are considered more reliable.

Dried ashwagandha root and powder
( Source : https://naturalpoland.com



In Conclusion

Today, we've explored Ashwagandha, the ancient herb that gifts calm days and deep sleep to the modern person weary from stress. Don't let your body exhaust all its energy fighting stress.

I hope you will borrow the wisdom of Ashwagandha to build your resistance to stress, restore balance to your mind and body, and greet a vibrant tomorrow.

[References]

  • National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), 'Ashwagandha'
  • Salve, J., et al. (2019). Adaptogenic and Anxiolytic Effects of Ashwagandha Root Extract in Healthy Adults: A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled Clinical Study. Cureus, 11(12).
  • Lopresti, A. L., et al. (2019). A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study examining the hormonal and vitality effects of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in aging, overweight males. American journal of men's health, 13(2).


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