Ashwagandha Ancient Remedy for Cognitive Health
Brain fog, chronic stress and memory loss can considerably impact your day-to-day life. Whether you are seeking stress and anxiety relief, or would like to support your cognitive health, you may benefit from introducing ashwagandha into your regimen.
Withania somnifera, commonly known as ashwagandha, has been prized for its stress-relieving and cognitive-boosting properties for over 3,000 years. Modern research has validated its traditional use, with numerous studies exploring its role in managing neurological conditions and enhancing memory (1).
Ongoing research continues to highlight ashwagandha’s impact on brain health, particularly its potential to lower cortisol levels—a hormone released during stress. Elevated cortisol levels over time can be harmful, contributing to cognitive decline. Clinical trials have shown that daily supplementation with 600mg of ashwagandha significantly reduces cortisol levels and alleviates stress symptoms within two months (2). This suggests that ashwagandha could help protect the brain from stress-related cognitive impairments.
Preliminary findings also indicate that ashwagandha may enhance memory and mental clarity (1). A pilot study involving 50 adults with mild cognitive impairment found that daily intake of 600mg of ashwagandha significantly improved memory, attention, and processing speed (1). These promising outcomes offer hope for those dealing with memory loss.
Ashwagandha’s potential cognitive benefits are thought to stem from its adaptogenic effects, which help regulate the body’s energy and stress responses. While the exact mechanisms remain unclear, this emerging evidence could lead to further research exploring ashwagandha’s role in supporting cognitive health. If you're seeking a natural supplement to reduce stress and improve mental clarity, ashwagandha may be worth considering.
Author: Salma Dawood, Technical Advisor at Viridian Nutrition, holds a BSc Honours degree in Human Nutrition.
References:
- Choudhary D, Bhattacharyya S, Bose S (2017), Efficacy and Safety of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal) Root Extract in Improving Memory and Cognitive Functions. J Diet Suppl. 14(6):599-612. doi: 10.1080/19390211.2017.1284970.
- Chandrasekhar K, Kapoor J, Anishetty S. 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 J Psychol Med. 2012 Jul;34(3):255-62. doi: 10.4103/0253-7176.106022.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is not intended to treat, diagnose, or replace medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional if you have pre-existing conditions or are on medication. Supplements should not substitute a balanced diet.
Credit: This content is provided by Viridian Nutrition.
