What is Ashwagandha and its Effects on Cortisol Levels
Do you know much about Ayurvedic medicine? Some of the natural supplements I often recommend belong to this old medical system. Ayurvedic medicine is one of India’s traditional ways to treat illnesses. It combines diet, exercise, lifestyle, and products (mostly plants, but may also contain animal parts, metals, and minerals). It is always great to have the option of using a remedy that has been used successfully for many years in traditional medicine.
Handling Stress Better With Ashwagandha
One of my favorite botanical Ayurvedic supplements is an adaptogen called ashwagandha. Adaptogens are natural substances that may help the body handle stress better. For over 3,000 years, ashwagandha has been used to promote youthful energy, muscle strength, and endurance. This amazing herb has been used as a “Rasayana” or rejuvenator in Ayurvedic medicine.
It is believed that ashwagandha can help balance your hormones and your adrenal glands. Clinical research has shown that this plant can help with thyroid hormones, sexual function, memory, and your body’s ability to handle stress and anxiety. Ashwagandha may even help bring your cortisol level under control.
Cortisol, also known as the stress hormone, can be affected during stressful times. The stress can be physical (illnesses, injuries, etc.), emotional (divorce, loss of a loved one, being in a bad relationship, switching jobs, etc.) or related to other factors (running a marathon, exams, and more).
Your Cortisol Levels Are a Priority
It is best to know your cortisol levels throughout the day before starting any adaptogen. At Community Clinical Pharmacy, we carry saliva test kits that can be used to measure your cortisol levels 4 times a day. This simple test helps us determine the best adaptogen and supporting supplements you may need to help you get through high-stress events which may cause adrenal fatigue syndrome.
What is Adrenal Fatigue?
Adrenal fatigue syndrome can cause stress, difficulty sleeping through the night, and weight gain in the midsection (belly). Taking supplements is only part of the solution. Recovering from adrenal fatigue syndrome requires guidance about supplements and nutrition as well as practicing proper physical and mental habits.
Get Relief from Adrenal Fatigue
Not all herbal supplements are safe to take for everyone. It is not recommended to start yourself on adaptogens without talking to your healthcare provider or an expert. Please contact me via email or phone, and I will be happy to help you with your journey getting through adrenal fatigue syndrome after assessing your particular situation.
