Reduce Anxiety Symptoms Naturally With Ashwagandha

Withania somnifera, known commonly as ashwagandha, sounds like a good name for an avatar in a fantasy game, but it is already the name of an herb that has been used for more than 3,000 years by some medical philosophies, including Ayurveda.

One of the benefits of Withania is the reduction of anxiety symptoms.

Withania somnifera is a sturdy, upright shrub native to India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangla Desh, and parts of northern Africa. It is also called Physalis somnifera, Ashwagandha, Kanaje, Amukkara, Winter Cherry, Indian Ginseng, or Shui Qie.

Why Withania Works

The biochemical makeup of the Withania somnifera root is steroidal lactones, steroidal alkaloids, and substances called withanolides. The withanolides are precursors to human hormones.

Plant-based withanolides can attach themselves to hormone receptor sites in our body. So, if there is too much of a certain hormone, the withanolides sitting at the receptor sites block the attachment of the excess human hormone.

Using Withania

Withania is a naturopathic medicine, meaning it assists the body’s innate ability to heal itself. It works best when coupled with a healthy diet that is low in alcohol, refined sugars, nicotine, and other stimulants.

It has an anti-inflammatory and anti-stress effect. It supports the immune, cardiovascular, endocrine, and central nervous systems. Withania improves cognition, rejuvenates brain cells, and stabilizes blood sugar. There are no reported toxic side effects.

There is a side benefit to Withania somnifera as well. It has been used for centuries as an aphrodisiac and is recommended in the Kama Sutra for enhancement of sexual experience; quite an all-around herb.

Withania, or Ashwagandha, is available in both powder and tablet forms:

• Traditionally, the powder is mixed with warm milk and honey, and taken before bed. It calms the body and fosters both strength and healthy sleep patterns.
• A typical dose is 1-6 grams of powder daily.
• Withania can also be used with ghee and sugar to support joints and the female reproductive system.
• For convenience, many people take Withania in tablet form.
• Although considered safe if taken as directed on the supplement package, consult your doctor before using Withania if you take other medications or you are pregnant.

Sources: Plos One, The Chopra Center
Photo: Px Here