Ashwagandha and Anxiety: What the Latest Research Says
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Ashwagandha has gone from obscure Ayurvedic root to supplement aisle celebrity—and for good reason. If you’ve been feeling anxious, wired, or just “off,” this adaptogen might be worth your attention.
But does it actually work? Let’s unpack the science behind ashwagandha and anxiety, and whether it lives up to the hype.
Adaptogens 101: What Ashwagandha Actually Does
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is classified as an adaptogen, meaning it helps your body “adapt” to stress. It doesn’t sedate you like a pharmaceutical or give you a caffeine-like buzz—it works in the background to stabilize hormone and nervous system responses.
Its most studied benefits center around cortisol reduction, which is key if you’re dealing with chronic stress or burnout.
The Science: What Recent Studies Reveal
A 2022 systematic review published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine analyzed multiple randomized controlled trials and found that ashwagandha significantly reduced anxiety scores compared to placebo. The best results occurred after 8 weeks of daily supplementation.
Another study in Nutrients (2023) observed improvements in sleep quality, perceived stress, and heart rate variability—all markers of nervous system balance. Importantly, participants didn’t just feel “less anxious”—their physiological stress markers improved too.
Does It Work for Everyone?
While the results are promising, not everyone responds the same way. Ashwagandha seems most effective in individuals with moderate anxiety or chronic stress—not necessarily those with panic disorders or more complex mental health conditions.
Also worth noting: high doses can interact with thyroid hormones or sedatives, so it’s always best to check with a healthcare provider if you’re on medication.
Natural Calm That Builds Over Time
Ashwagandha isn’t a magic bullet—but that’s its strength. It works gently and cumulatively, helping your body recalibrate over time. Many users report feeling a subtle but steady shift: less racing thoughts, deeper sleep, and calmer mornings.
Look for full-spectrum extracts standardized for withanolides, the active compounds responsible for its stress-buffering effects.
Whether you're burnout-prone or just craving more balance, ashwagandha offers a research-backed path to calmer days. Greenlabco’s Calm formulations feature adaptogens like ashwagandha for steady, natural support you can actually feel.
Try our Calm supplements and give your nervous system the rest it deserves.