Ashwagandha, a herb lauded in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for its wide array of benefits, is experiencing a surge in popularity. Its stress-busting and cognition-enhancing qualities are particularly lauded. But does ashwagandha make you happy?
Let’s delve into the research and science behind this remarkable herb, with a special focus on ashwagandha products available in Ireland.
UNDERSTANDING ASHWAGANDHA
Ashwagandha, or Withania somnifera, is commonly referred to as the “Indian ginseng”. Its roots have been used for thousands of years for their medicinal properties. Known for reducing stress, improving sleep, and enhancing mood, this plant seems to be a natural ally for mental well-being[^1^].
THE ASHWAGANDHA-HAPPINESS CONNECTION
What do we mean when we ask, “Does ashwagandha make you happy?” It’s crucial to understand that happiness in this context refers to an improved mood, reduced anxiety, and overall better mental well-being.
Ashwagandha and Stress
A significant part of feeling happy involves managing stress. Ashwagandha has been observed to help regulate cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone[^2^]. By moderating cortisol levels, ashwagandha can help mitigate the physical and mental effects of stress.
Ashwagandha and Mood Enhancement
Several studies have shown that ashwagandha can enhance mood. One study found that individuals who took ashwagandha extract reported improved happiness, calmness, and overall well-being[^3^].
Ashwagandha and Sleep Quality
Good sleep is an essential component of overall happiness and well-being. Ashwagandha contains active compounds called triethylene glycol, which promote sleep induction[^4^]. By improving sleep quality, ashwagandha may contribute to a happier state of mind.
INTEGRATING ASHWAGANDHA INTO YOUR ROUTINE WITH DR. ASHWAME
Now that we understand the potential benefits of ashwagandha, it’s crucial to source high-quality supplements for effective use. Dr. AshwaMe, an Irish e-commerce store, offers a curated range of ashwagandha products, accessible at Dr. Ashwa Me.
The Dr. AshwaMe Difference
At Dr. AshwaMe, every ashwagandha product is carefully sourced and produced with the utmost attention to quality and efficacy. Products are designed to make it easy to integrate ashwagandha into your routine, whether in the form of capsules, powders, or tinctures.
THE HISTORY OF ASHWAGANDHA USE
As one of the most ancient medicinal herbs, Ashwagandha has a storied past. This remarkable plant has been used for millennia, with roots firmly entrenched in the ancient tradition of Ayurvedic medicine. Understanding the history of Ashwagandha usage can provide a unique perspective on its current applications and benefits.
ASHWAGANDHA IN AYURVEDIC MEDICINE
Ayurveda, a form of traditional medicine native to India, has used Ashwagandha for more than 3000 years[^7^]. In Sanskrit, ‘Ashwagandha’ translates to “smell of the horse,” alluding not only to its unique aroma but also to its reputation for imparting strength and vitality, much like a horse.
Ashwagandha is classified as a “Rasayana” in Ayurveda, which means it is used to promote physical and mental health, rejuvenate the body, and prolong life[^8^]. The roots of the Ashwagandha plant were traditionally used in various formulations intended to strengthen the immune system, enhance cognitive function, alleviate symptoms of stress and anxiety, and promote general well-being.
FROM AYURVEDA TO THE MODERN WORLD
The use of Ashwagandha expanded beyond Ayurvedic medicine as its benefits started to attract global attention. The 20th century saw a surge in interest in natural and traditional remedies, and researchers began to scientifically investigate Ashwagandha’s potential therapeutic benefits.
Contemporary scientific studies began validating many of the traditional uses of Ashwagandha, bringing this ancient herb into the limelight of modern integrative health and wellness practices[^9^]. Today, Ashwagandha is sold globally, including in Ireland, with the Dr. Ashwa Me online store offering a wide variety of high-quality Ashwagandha products.
CONCLUSION
Ashwagandha offers a natural way to potentially manage stress, improve mood, and enhance sleep. Dr. AshwaMe’s ashwagandha offerings make it easy to integrate this powerful herb into your wellness routine.
Remember to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, and to carefully consider the quality and source of your ashwagandha supplement.
Does ashwagandha make you happy? It appears that it could indeed play a significant role in your journey towards improved well-being and happiness.
REFERENCES
- Mishra, L. C., Singh, B. B., & Dagenais, S. (2000). Scientific basis for the therapeutic use of Withania somnifera (ashwagandha): a review. Alternative Medicine Review, 5(4), 334-346.
- Chandrasekhar, K., Kapoor, J., & Anishetty, S. (2012). A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of a high-concentration full-spectrum extract of ashwagandha root in reducing stress and anxiety in adults. Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine, 34(3), 255.
- Auddy, B., Hazra, J., Mitra, A., Abedon, B., & Ghosal, S. (2008). A standardized Withania somnifera extract significantly reduces stress-related parameters in chronically stressed humans: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study. Journal of the American Nutraceutical Association, 11(1), 50-56.
- Kaushik, M. K., Kaul, S. C., Wadhwa, R., Yanagisawa, M., & Urade, Y. (2017). Triethylene glycol, an active component of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) leaves, is responsible for sleep induction. PloS one, 12(2), e0172508.
- Singh, N., Bhalla, M., De Jager, P., & Gilca, M. (2011). An overview on ashwagandha: a Rasayana (rejuvenator) of Ayurveda. African Journal of Traditional, Complementary, and Alternative Medicines, 8(5S).
- Bhat, J., Damle, A., Vaishnav, P. P., Albers, R., Joshi, M., & Banerjee, G. (2010). In vivo enhancement of natural killer cell activity through tea fortified with Ayurvedic herbs. Phytotherapy Research: An International Journal Devoted to Pharmacological and Toxicological Evaluation of Natural Product Derivatives, 24(1), 129-135.
- Kulkarni, S.K., Dhir, A. (2008). Withania somnifera: An Indian ginseng. Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry, 32(5), 1093-1105.