The stresses of modern life can feel overwhelming at times, with work, family, and daily responsibilities all contributing to a sense of unease. Finding natural solutions that effectively tackle these stressors while also supporting mental well-being is increasingly important, and this is where ashwagandha comes into play. Known as one of the most powerful adaptogens, ashwagandha is a key ingredient in Focus Fuel, one of our functional wellness drinks, designed specifically to elevate cognitive function and stabilise mood. But how exactly does ashwagandha work to reduce stress and improve mood? Let's take a closer look at the science and benefits behind this incredible herb.
What Is Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera or Indian ginseng, is a traditional herb used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years. Its benefits range from boosting energy to enhancing resilience to stress, earning it a well-deserved reputation as a natural remedy for improving both physical and mental health. Ashwagandha is classified as an adaptogen, a type of herb that helps the body adapt to stress by regulating the endocrine system and supporting overall hormone balance.
This powerful herb is included in Focus Fuel, which is specifically formulated to support mental performance and reduce fatigue. Unlike caffeine-based stimulants that can cause jitteriness or energy crashes, ashwagandha works with your body to promote calmness while maintaining focus and energy.
The Science Behind Ashwagandha's Stress-Reducing Effects
Ashwagandha's ability to reduce stress lies primarily in its adaptogenic properties, which help regulate cortisol—the hormone that the body releases in response to stress. When cortisol levels become chronically elevated, it can lead to anxiety, weight gain, sleep disturbances, and other negative health outcomes. Ashwagandha helps modulate cortisol production, reducing the harmful effects associated with prolonged stress.Studies have demonstrated that ashwagandha supplementation reduces cortisol by up to 30%, resulting in lower stress levels and anxiety (Chandrasekhar et al., 2012). Another study found that ashwagandha had a positive influence on both perceived stress and overall well-being (Chai et al., 2020).
Further studies have shown that regular supplementation with ashwagandha significantly reduces cortisol levels and lowers the negative effects of chronic stress (Kuśmierska et al., 2024).
How Ashwagandha Improves Mood and Promotes Relaxation
Not only does ashwagandha reduce stress, but it also plays a crucial role in boosting mood and promoting relaxation. This effect is partly due to its influence on neurotransmitters—chemicals that carry signals between nerve cells. Ashwagandha has been shown to positively impact the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps stabilise mood and contributes to feelings of well-being and happiness.
Ashwagandha also works by helping to rebalance other key hormones, such as GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), which is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that has a calming effect on the brain .Additionally, its ability to boost GABA, this calming neurotransmitter, supports feelings of relaxation without causing sedation (Majeed et al., 2023).
For those who struggle with irritability, low energy, or persistent low mood, the use of ashwagandha can be life-changing. Including it in a daily wellness routine, like drinking our Focus Fuel, can help elevate your overall sense of well-being and support a more balanced emotional state.
Benefits of Ashwagandha in Daily Life
So, how exactly can ashwagandha help in your daily life? Here are some of the specific benefits you may experience by incorporating ashwagandha into your routine:
- Reduced Anxiety and Stress: Ashwagandha is best known for its anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) properties. Regular intake can help you stay calm, even during demanding situations. Whether you have a big work presentation or simply need to unwind after a long day, ashwagandha can offer natural support.
- Enhanced Mood and Mental Clarity: By influencing serotonin and dopamine levels, ashwagandha can help elevate mood and promote better focus. Including ashwagandha in Focus Fuel allows you to get the benefits without any unwanted jitteriness or post-caffeine crash.
- Improved Sleep Quality: Cortisol levels can wreak havoc on sleep, leading to restless nights. By lowering cortisol and promoting GABA activity, ashwagandha can help you sleep more soundly, leading to more energy and a refreshed mood the following day.One key study demonstrated that ashwagandha improved stress-related markers while also helping individuals maintain better sleep patterns and energy levels (Haber et al., 2024).
- Support During Physical Exertion: Ashwagandha is also known for its ability to boost physical performance by reducing fatigue and supporting stamina. If your daily routine includes physical activity, ashwagandha can help you maintain balanced energy and reduce recovery times, without draining your mood or productivity.
Why Adaptogens Like Ashwagandha Are Perfect for Modern Life
Our lives today are filled with constant stressors—whether it’s meeting deadlines, managing finances, or balancing relationships. All these can take a toll on both mental and physical health. Adaptogens like ashwagandha are particularly beneficial for these modern stressors because they help create a sense of balance and support overall wellness.
Unlike caffeine or other quick-fix solutions that often lead to an energy crash, adaptogens work gently with your body's natural systems. Ashwagandha, for example, helps calm the nervous system, while at the same time supporting steady energy levels and a stable mood. It’s no wonder this adaptogen is becoming a favourite addition to many people’s routines, including being a star ingredient in ROOH's Focus Fuel.
How to Include Ashwagandha in Your Daily Routine
If you’re interested in trying ashwagandha, Focus Fuel is a convenient and delicious way to incorporate it into your daily lifestyle. With its rich chocolately flavour and natural, caffeine-free formulation, Focus Fuel can be enjoyed as part of your morning routine or in the afternoon as a pick-me-up without the risk of energy crashes.
You can mix Focus Fuel into hot or cold mylk, blend it into a smoothie, or even stir it into your pancake mix. The added adaptogens, including ashwagandha, will provide the right balance to support your cognitive performance, reduce stress, and elevate your mood whenever you need it.
To learn more about Focus Fuel, visit ROOH's Focus Fuel page and start your journey towards a more balanced and energised you.
Final Thoughts
Ashwagandha is a powerful adaptogen that has been shown to help reduce stress, improve mood, and support overall mental clarity and focus. As an ingredient in Focus Fuel, it’s an easy, natural way to help combat the pressures of modern life. By incorporating adaptogens like ashwagandha into your routine, you’re giving your body the support it needs to stay balanced, energised, and calm.
Ready to power your potential naturally? Check out Focus Fuel and see how it can make a difference in your daily well-being.
Sources
Kuśmierska, M., Kuśmierski, J., & Kwaśniewska, O. (2024). Exploring the therapeutic potential of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) supplementation in alleviating stress and stress-related disorders. DOI: 10.12775/qs.2024.15.51854.
Chandrasekhar, K., Kapoor, J., & Anishetty, S. (2012). A Prospective, Randomized Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of Safety and Efficacy of a High-Concentration Full-Spectrum Extract of Ashwagandha Root in Reducing Stress and Anxiety in Adults. DOI: 10.4103/0253-7176.106022.
Chai, S. C., Li, I. Z., Pacanowski, C., & Brewer, B. (2020). Effects of Four-Week Supplementation of Ashwagandha and B-Vitamins on Mood and Stress Relief. DOI: 10.1093/cdn/nzaa057_011.
Majeed, M., Nagabhushanam, K., & Mundkur, L. A. (2023). A standardized Ashwagandha root extract alleviates stress, anxiety, and improves quality of life in healthy adults by modulating stress hormones: Results from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. DOI: 10.1097/MD.0000000000035521.
Haber, M., Czachor, A., Kula, P., Juśkiewicz, A., Grelewicz, O., Kucy, N., Servaas, E., Kotula, A., & Siemiątkowski, R. (2024). Ashwagandha as an Adaptogen: Its Influence on Sleep Patterns, Stress Response, and Anxiety in Modern Life. DOI: 10.12775/jehs.2024.68.55327.