Ashwagandha for almost 6000 years has been used as a Rasayana and is considered an ancient herb. The word (Ashwa) means the root smells like a horse, that is why it's called Ashwagandha (on consuming, it gives the individual the power of horses), so it is believed. The root of Ashwagandha is made of tonic, aphrodisiac, narcotic, diuretic, anthelmintic, astringent. Ashwagandha is known as an **adaptogen**, meaning that it can help your body manage stress. (3), (2)
Studies have shown that the consumption of Ashwagandha may help with reducing the production of **Cortisol**. Why is that important? Cortisol is known as the **stress hormone** that is released from the adrenal gland in response to stress, low blood sugar levels, (1), (3)
Ashwagandha contains **anti-inflammatory properties**, and as we know, **Inflammation** is the body's response to infection or stress, while Chronic Inflammation over time is linked to life-threatening diseases such as heart disease, cancer, arthritis, and bowel diseases, to name a few. (4) (5)
There was a randomized 8-week place-bo study of the stress-relieving effect of Ashwagandha root extract was investigated in stressed healthy adults. The study included 60 male and female participants with a baseline of a high-stress level. They received 125mg capsules of Ashwagandha extract. Out of the 60 participants, 58 of participants completed the study. The studies showed that the participants who finished the studies saw a **significant improvement in sleep quality** and, in turn, **reducing overall stress and anxiety levels** from the Ashwagandha root aqueous extract. (6)
For an adult that are overweight and obese with chronic stress, Ashwagandha has been reported to improve the **mental health**, **eating habits** and **reduce stress** through its adaptogenic properties while maintaining the normal endocrinological balance. It was also reported to maintain an appropriate range of testosterone, boosting cognitive capabilities in people with mild cognitive impairment and enhancing cardiorespiratory endurance. (6)
