Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is one of the most revered plants in Ayurvedic medicine. Because the rejuvenating effects of Ashwagandha parallel those of Panax ginseng, it is frequently referred to as “Indian ginseng.” However, it is not a member of the same botanical family as ginseng.

Like ginseng, recent scientific investigations have shown high quality Ashwagandha extracts to be particularly restorative in dealing with stress and improving brain function and mood. Several mechanisms have been proposed to explain Ashwagandha benefit on brain function.

The consensus is that compounds known withanolides in Ashwagandha improve the overall health of brain cells as well as the communication between brain cells. A new study provides an additional mechanism of action: boosting the levels of a key compound within brain cells that acts to protect the brain against aging and damage.

Background of Ashwagandha:
Ashwagandha extracts standardized for withanolide content have been shown to work with the body’s natural biological systems to help restore balance and normalize function. For example, these extracts have been shown to help to increase the body’s resistance to stress and reduce physiological responses to stress events.

Benefits of Ashwagandha: