Ashwagandha Lowers Stress Levels

Stress can have serious psychological and physical effects. Lifestyle changes can be useful in lowering stress levels, but sometimes additional help is necessary. This study suggests that taking supplements of an Indian herb known as ashwagandha may lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol by 27.9%.

The study included 64 adults with a history of chronic stress. For 60 days half of the group took 300 mg of high-concentration full-spectrum extract of ashwagandha while the other half took a placebo.

At the conclusion of the study, the supplement group showed the 27.9% reduction in cortisol, a 72.3% reduction in stress as measured by the General Health Questionnaire-28, a 71.6% reduction on the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale, and a 44% reduction on the Perceived Stress Scale.

The study was conducted by researchers at Asha Hospital in India. It was published in the July 2012 issue of the Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine.

Previous studies suggest that ashwagandha may help with memory, cognitive function and brain health, increase strength, and help with sexual dysfunctions. The best way to consume ashwagandha is by taking a high quality supplement.