Ashwagandha, the Ancient Adaptogenic Herb

Statistics suggest that stress in America is on the rise, with as much as 63% of the U.S. workforce having considered leaving their jobs to escape work-related stress.1 According to a Harris Poll conducted for the American Psychological Association, the economy, our jobs and health issues rank among the top stressors for survey respondents.2 The World Health Organization estimates that 12 billion workdays are lost annually worldwide due to anxiety or depression, at a cost of one trillion U.S. dollars per year.3

With the ever-rising costs of healthcare and less access to in-person doctor visits, self-care is becoming a more important means of maintaining our physical and mental wellbeing.

As APA President Rebecca W. Brendel, M.D., J.D. states, “What’s promising is that many Americans are aware of their mental health needs and taking steps to improve their own mental health.”4

The Ashwagandha Plant, Withania Somnifera

Stress is not just a modern-day dilemma. People have sought solace from worry and anxiety for centuries. Since life began in a Garden, it makes sense to consider the plants that God has given us as potential sources for wellness solutions. One plant in particular has shown great promise in this area, both practically and scientifically: Ashwagandha.

Originally found in the driest parts of India, the Middle East and parts of Africa, Ashwagandha grows as a desert shrub. This hearty evergreen goes by many names, including winter cherry, Indian ginger and even poison gooseberry.

Traditional Uses

The ancient peoples of the Indian subcontinent used the plant’s roots, leaves, berries and even bark for myriad medicinal purposes.

The American Botanical Society says that the dried root and whole plant are used in Indian folk medicine and references the claims of ethnobotanist James adaptogen - Adaptogens are natural substances, such as herbs and roots, that may help the body adapt to and better manage stress.

Duke, PhD, that various parts of the Ashwagandha plant are used as folk remedies for everything from hypertension and senility to asthma and hiccups.5 This ancient herb has garnered newfound interest in our day for its adaptogenic properties.

The Role of Cortisol

Cortisol is a hormone our body releases as part of the fight-or-flight response. When we feel threatened, our adrenal glands release hormones including cortisol and adrenaline into the bloodstream. These hormones work together to raise heart rate, increase glucose in the bloodstream and help ensure your body can repair itself more efficiently. cortisol - Cortisol is the body’s primary stress hormone, which is released by the adrenal glands in response to a perceived threat.

This natural process is helpful if you’re facing a dangerous or threatening situation. However, when your body is constantly in fight-or-flight mode because of work deadlines or difficulties in a relationship, chronic stress can lead to a number of health problems.

According to the Mayo Clinic, overexposure to cortisol puts you at increased risk for health problems such as these:6

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Digestive problems

• Headaches

• Muscle tension and pain

• Heart disease, heart attack, high blood pressure and stroke

• Sleep problems

• Weight gain

• Memory and concentration impairment

Studies have shown that Ashwagandha helps balance the stress hormone cortisol, which should be higher in the daytime and lower at night.7