If you’ve heard of adaptogens, you’re probably aware of the hype that surrounds Ashwagandha - aka, Withania somnifera.

This adaptogenic herb has been utilised for thousands of years, and it’s one of the most traditionally used herbs in Ayurvedic medicine. While this herb comes with a laundry list of health benefits from support energy and performance to bolstering the immune system, Ashwagandha has an affinity for the nervous system - making it an incredible ally for anyone who needs that extra support during hard times. 

 

Adaptogens and the HPA-axis

Adaptogens are herbs that support the body’s ability to adapt to stress. This hard-working class of herbs have a non-specific effect, helping to bring balance and alignment back to the body when we are experiencing stress of all kinds. Adaptogens have a modulating effect, particularly where the HPA axis is concerned.

The HPA axis (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis) is the line of communication between these three organs, which are responsible for regulating hormones and neurotransmitters that influence how the body responds to stress (and so much more!). The HPA axis is our body’s built in stress response and all organs involved are in constant communication with one another to support this process. When the body perceives stress, the HPA axis is activated to help the body respond and adapt accordingly. 

While stress is a normal, healthy response in the short term, in the long term it can cause a whole host of health consequences. The HPA axis is constantly in flux, trying to help the body regulate itself in the face of our everyday stressors, but there comes a point when these stressors take a toll on the body. Operating from a chronic state of stress can compromise the regulation of the HPA-axis, which creates a ripple effect that influences the body as a whole. 

 

How adaptogens can help

Because of their non-specific ability to reduce stressors on the body, adaptogens work to normalize the effects of stress (physical, mental, emotional) to restore normal body function. While all adaptogens support the body in this non-specific way, they each have their own unique affinity for different body systems and/or conditions. There are adaptogens like Rhodiola and Korean ginseng that are more stimulating, or hormone balancing adaptogens like Schisandra to support the reproductive system. 

 

Ashwagandha: potential benefits related to stress and mood

Both clinical and experimental studies have confirmed the efficacy of Ashwagandha in supporting low mood and anxiety states. The mechanism of action is thought to be related to its ability to modulate the HPA-axis, influence inflammatory pathways and support neurotransmitter function.

• Studies have shown that the consecutive use of Ashwagandha (300mg) over 90 days helped to improve memory, attention, sleep and stress.
• One study concluded that Ashwagandha extract could potentially support SSRI therapy. 
• Another study suggested that Ashwagandha may potentially enhance cognitive function and support mood in adults.

You can find Ashwagandha in the new Supercalm formulation here.

 

References: 
Remenapp A., Coyle K., Orange T., Lynch T., Hooper D., Hooper S., Conway K., Hausenblas H.A. Efficacy of Withania somnifera supplementation on adult’s cognition and mood. J. Ayurveda Integr. Med. 2022;13:100510. doi: 10.1016/j.jaim.2021.08.003.
 Gopukumar K., Thanawala S., Somepalli V., Rao T.S.S., Thamatam V.B., Chauhan S. Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha Root Extract on Cognitive Functions in Healthy, Stressed Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study. Evid.-Based Complement. Altern. Med. 2021;2021:1–10. doi: 10.1155/2021/8254344.
Lopresti A.L., Smith S.J., Malvi H., Kodgule R., Wane D. An investigation into the stress-relieving and pharmacological actions of an Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Medicine. 2019;98:e17186. doi: 10.1097/MD.0000000000017186.
Salve J., Pate S., Debnath K., Langade D. Adaptogenic and Anxiolytic Effects of Ashwagandha Root Extract in Healthy Adults: A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled Clinical Study. Cureus. 2019;11:e6466. doi: 10.7759/cureus.6466.
Pratte M.A., Nanavati K.B., Young V., Morley C.P. An alternative treatment for anxiety: A systematic review of human trial results reported for the Ayurvedic herb Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) J. Altern. Complement. Med. 2014;20:901–908. doi: 10.1089/acm.2014.0177.