Latest news with #ashwagandha
Yahoo
24-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Neuropsychopharmacologist says one natural pill helps you sleep
As people struggle with the hot summer nights, a scientist who specialises in brain chemistry has explained how ingredients like ashwagandha and lemon balm can help with a more restful sleep. One in five people in the UK - 13.5million of us, are not getting enough sleep, according to Mental Health UK. 63% report their sleep is disrupted by hot weather, meaning sleep is worse in warm, weather Studies have shown that organic ingredients like ashwagandha, lemon balm, l-theanine and reishi mushrooms can help people sleep better. Dr Rayyan Zafar, a Scientist at Imperial College London and the Chief Scientific Officer of Moodeys, said: . 'The key to good sleep is REM sleep. It's like hitting the reset button for your brain—it keeps you sharp, balanced, and ready to take on the day. But stress and restlessness can get in the way so it helps to find ingredients that can combat it. That's where natural sleep boosters like ashwagandha, lemon balm, reishi mushroom and l-theanine can help. READ MORE: One thing treats depression 'better than drugs or talking therapy' READ MORE: Eating this 20p fruit could help prevent wrinkles and ease arthritis pain 'Ashwagandha can help to lower cortisol (the 'stress hormone') so your body can relax. Lemon Balm can be useful in reducing anxiety and quieting a racing mind. Reishi Mushroom is a fungus that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to reduce inflammation and relax our central and peripheral nervous system. And L-Theanine? It has been found to induce relaxation and rest. These are all organic compounds found in nature that will help you drift into sleep smoothly and help you to stay there. 'These powerful ingredients work best in capsules as they are fast absorbing and have high bioavailability. The result? A calmer nervous system, less stress, and deep REM sleep that leaves you feeling amazing in the morning.' Ashwagandha, lemon balm, reishi mushroom and L-Theanine are all sold separately and are available in pharmacies and supermarkets, however, combining the ingredients in supplements could be the ultimate sleepmaxxing hack. The supplements are available in a combined pill.
National Post
20-05-2025
- Health
- National Post
What are adaptogens? Top blends for stress, focus and more
Reviews and recommendations are unbiased and products are independently selected. Postmedia may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on this page. Article content For centuries, humans have turned to nature for healing, and one of the wise allies we can lean on is adaptogens — earthy, often bitter botanicals with balancing powers that help us adapt, recalibrate and rise above stress, both emotional and physical. Article content When we experience a stressful event, consuming adaptogens can help our bodies return to a state of balance known as homeostasis. These plants and herbs, such as ashwagandha, rhodiola rosea and schisandra are also believed to improve overall energy, vitality, athletic performance and strengthen the immune system. Article content Article content This isn't new-age fluff. It's basic biology. It's the kind of ancient partnership that reminds us we're not machines that need fixing — we're ecosystems that, like nature, require tending. Article content All adaptogens help the body resist the effects of stress, but each offers unique support based on your specific needs. Article content Article content For mental clarity, focus and energy: Lion's mane and chaga are top contenders — both are revered mushrooms rich in antioxidants and neuro-protective compounds. You'll often find them in instant coffee blends, coffee creamers or daily drink mixes. Article content
Daily Mail
13-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Safety warning over celebrity-backed supplement - doctor says regular use is linked to LIVER DAMAGE
A GP has warned that those who regularly take trendy ashwagandha supplements could be at serious risk of liver damage. Speaking in a video that has already been watched 15,500 times, Dr Asif Ahmed revealed that despite ashwagandha being 'one of the most hyped supplements out there'—backed by the likes of Gwyneth Paltrow—it can have disastrous effects when taken long term. Ashwagandha, a herb found in India, that has long been touted for its supposed benefits, which include aiding sleep and boosting mental health. However, experts say it's still not clear if and how the plant works. And Dr Ahmed has highlighted a potential danger — and urged the public to undergo vita blood tests to check the function of their liver before they take the supplement. This is because like other herbal supplements, ashwagandha releases toxic compounds when metabolised by the liver. In high doses, this can trigger damage to the organ that stops it being able to effectively rid the body of toxins, leading to yellowing of the eyes and skin, medically known as jaundice. 'Ashwaganda is meant to help with stress and reducing high cortisol levels, but remember it's a herbal treatment, so make sure your liver function tests have been done and are okay before you start,' the GP warned. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dr Asif Ahmed (MBBS, MRCGP, BSc) (@dra_says) People should only take the supplement for a short period of time, and only when absolutely necessary, Dr Ahmed advised. 'It definitely shouldn't be taken long term', he said. 'Make sure you don't take more than 300 to 600 mg a day for four to six weeks max. 'And it should only to be used during very stressful periods.' The GP also warned that taking supplements alongside other medications also carries potential dangers due to unknown interactions. He said: 'Like with any other herbal treatment make sure you check with your doctor to make sure there are no interactions with any other medications, in particular with blood thinning medication.' This is because some studies have shown that ashwagandha has a blood thinning effect and can therefore exacerbate the risk of hemorrhage that already comes with prescription medication. Last year, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) warned that ashwaganda has been linked to potential liver toxicity. The FSA said that, in the UK, 'there are no safe levels established or set limits' of how much ashwagandha can be used in supplements. The supplement has also been linked with 'thyroid toxicity' and 'potential liver toxicity'. It may also impact 'thyroid hormone levels' as well having 'hypoglycaemic effects'— meaning it could cause blood sugar levels to drop, the watchdog added. Dr Ahmed also highlighted studies that suggest taking ashwagandha can significantly reduce cortisol levels and the negative effects of stress on the body. In the most recent study the GP listed, researchers studied how effective ashwagandha root extract is at alleviating stress and anxiety in otherwise healthy individuals. They found that perceived stress levels, quality of life and generalised anxiety disorder scores improved significantly in all the participants taking ashwagandha compared to the placebo. The participants taking ashwagandha also experienced a significant improvement in multitasking, concentration and decision-making time. However, Dr Ahmed flagged that other studies have found no significant benefit with people taking ashwagandha to help reduce anxiety. 'Overall the evidence is not absolutely amazing, but its pretty decent. So I think its a pretty decent option for some people, but remember it's a herbal supplement', the GP concluded.
