Boost Your Brain, Body, and Mood Naturally with Ashwagandha

Botaniacal Name: Withania Somnifera

Common Names: Ashwagandha, Indian ginseng, Indian Winter cherry

What is Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha is an evergreen shrub belonging to the Solanaceae family. It’s found in parts of Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Ashwagandha has been used for thousands of years in the traditional Ayurvedic and Unani holistic medicine systems which focus on natural remedies, dietary modifications, individualized treatments and addressing root causes of illness to restore balance within the body.

Ashwagandha is classified as an adaptogen which can be defined as a natural substance that promotes homeostasis by enhancing the body’s ability to resist, adapt, or become resilient to biological, physical, or chemical stressors. Adaptogens aid the body by 


• Regulating the release of stress hormones such as cortisol
• Improving energy levels
• Enhancing the immune system
• Fights oxidative stress and cellular damage

In order to be considered an adaptogen, an herb must:

• Be nontoxic at normal doses
• Fights oxidative stress and cellular damage
• Support the body return to a state of homeostasis

Health Benefits of Ashwagandha  

Brain function, cognition and memory
Ashwagandha has been clinically shown to enhance cognitive function making it a valuable herb for brain health and mental clarity. Comprehensive studies have shown Ashwagandha to be effective in treating and reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s, and Parkinson’s. Due to the strong correlation between stress and neuropsychiatric disorders, the anti-stress properties of Ashwagandha are believed to play a significant role in its possible benefits for depression, anxiety, and insomnia.

Reduces cortisol and stress
Ashwagandha has been found to lower cortisol levels, the stress hormone that, when elevated, can impair memory and executive function.

Neuroprotective properties
Rich in antioxidants, ashwagandha protects brain cells from oxidative damage which is caused by free radicals which supports long-term brain health.

Improves Neuroplasticity
Ashwagandha may promote the growth and repair of neurons and dendrites which improves the brain's ability to adapt, learn new tasks, and recover from injury or stress.

Boosts Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF)
Ashwagandha is thought to increase levels of BDNF which is a protein critical for growth and survival of neurons which enhances learning, memory formation, and overall cognitive resilience.

Regulates Neurotransmitters
Ashwagandha influences levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid GABA, which are important for mood regulation and cognitive accuracy, promoting mental clarity, focus, and calmness.

Improves blood flow to the brain
Ashwagandha improves mental alertness and cognitive performance by supporting better circulation and oxygen delivery to brain tissues.

Decreases inflammation in the brain
Ashwagandha contains bioactive compounds like withanolides, which have been found to reduce inflammation and protect against chronic neuroinflammation. This protects against brain fog and supports clear thinking.

Enhances Learning and Memory
Ashwagandha has been shown in studies to improve both working memory and spatial memory, potentially by modulating acetylcholine levels, a neurotransmitter critical for learning and memory. It has been shown to improve recall, learning speed, and cognitive efficiency.

Practical Use

To improve cognitive function, ashwagandha can be taken as:
* Capsules/Tablets: Standardized extracts (250-600 mg per day) taken in 2 or 3 divided doses
* Powder: Mixed with water, non dairy milk, or smoothies.
* Tea: 1 tsp of powdered root in 1 cup of hot water for 10 minutes. Strain, add lemon juice if desired, drink three times daily.
* Tinctures: 2-4 mL, 3 times daily for a calming and focus-enhancing effect.

Consistency in use is key for noticeable cognitive benefits which are typically observed over weeks or months of regular intake.

Try our Brain & Focus and Mind at Ease capsules which contain Ashwagandha

Please always consult with your physician before starting any herbal remedies.