Why Ashwagandha is Your Go-To Adaptogen

Feeling like you need an energy refill just to get off the couch? It’s your cells waving the white flag! Ever wonder why you’re tired even after that triple-shot espresso? Okay , here’s the truth: it’s not about how much fuel you’re putting in, but about how well your engine—your body’s energy system—actually works. Think of mitochondria as the tiny powerhouses of every cell in your body, tirelessly converting food into ATP (aka, cellular energy) and ATP as the fuel that keeps you firing on all cylinders, from morning meetings to late-night Netflix.

But here’s the catch: modern-day hustle, with its endless emails an  back-to-back Zooms, can overwhelm this energy system. Getting Coldplay tickets can be one of the most stressful experiences, with the countdown clock ticking down and the pressure mounting to click "buy" at the right moment. This adrenaline rush mirrors the daily stresses we face, causing our bodies to trigger a stress response. Stress hormones flood your body, and your mitochondria, already overworked, start operating at half-speed. The result? A “low battery” signal that no amount of caffeine can fully recharge.

Now, imagine this stress and fatigue building up like Bruce Banner turning into the Hulk—but not in a good way. Instead of tapping into super strength, we’re becoming overwhelmed, snapping under pressure, and burning out. Just like the Hulk, who transforms when anger or stress pushes him past his limit, your body can hit its “breaking point” when your energy system is overworked. But instead of smashing things, your mitochondria start failing, leaving you drained, sluggish, and unable to function at full capacity. No amount of energy drinks or caffeine is going to help you find that balance. You need a reset—something to bring you back to your best self, instead of turning into the Hulk of burnout.

How to Manage the ANTS (Automatic Negative Thoughts) Crawling in Your Head?

Welcome, peeps! You’ve just picked up the manual for the rest of your life. How are you feeling today? You know it, you feel it, you hide it, you fear it... you've been touched by an invisible tide. It’s out there, and it’s contagious—the silent epidemic of overwhelmed minds!

No, I’m not talking about the time you absentmindedly left your phone in the fridge (we've all been there). I’m talking about something deeper. Something that deprives kids of their future, the elderly of their past, and adults of their present. The epidemic no one talks about. Spoiler alert: It’s stress!

Imagine this: A millennium ago, a young hunter-gatherer takes a bite of a poisonous berry—

bam!—she’s out of the picture in a few hours. Fast forward to today, and we have a young

entrepreneur who thinks an extra-large pizza, a couple of sodas, and a handful of chips are a “balanced lunch” (who needs salad, right?). But here’s the twist: the consequences aren’t instant. He doesn’t keel over after one meal (thankfully). Instead, years later, he might be taking leisurely walks with his dog, or—depending on how well his digestive system holds up—he’s spending more time with his gastroenterologist than with his dog. It all depends on whether his gut’s had enough of his food choices or if he’s still running on the occasional vitamin supplement and sheer willpower.

What determines his fate, you ask? It’s a cocktail of science-y factors like cholesterol, liver enzymes, and the strength of his blood vessels. But here’s the kicker: it’s also his personality and how much emotional stress he accumulates. Yes, stress. And maybe whether he has a shoulder to cry on when life throws him a curveball (or a surprise deadline).

Now, speaking of stress, those ANTs (Automatic Negative Thoughts) are just like the little gremlins that sneak into your brain and whisper “You can’t do it!” or “This is impossible!” They multiply faster than the number of unread emails in your inbox. They feed off your stress, making everything feel heavier and more daunting. But here’s the good news: managing your stress is key to keeping those ANTs at bay.

So, let’s get started: How do we clear out the ANTs and keep the brain from falling into the same trap as that entrepreneur’s diet? Simple. You don’t need to cut out all the "fun" (or fried food), but you do need to tackle those negative thoughts before they cause a lifetime of stress. And trust me, just like a balanced diet can help that entrepreneur, a little mental exercise, humor, along with some natural supplementation (hello, Ashwagandha!), can go a long way in keeping those pesky ANTs in check.

What are adaptogens? – long story short!

Alright, folks, let’s talk about something important: stress. I know, I know, it sounds like a boring lecture from a health class you’ve long forgotten, but bear with me. Stress is like that unexpected twist in a Marvel movie. One minute you’re chilling, and the next BAM!—your heart’s racing, you’re sweating, and your brain’s about to explode with all the things you needed to do yesterday.

Sensory adaptation happens when your body gets used to a constant stimulus. Think about how loud a fire alarm sounds the first time it goes off, right? It’s terrifying! But after a while, you’re just like, “Oh, that’s just the alarm again.” Your body adapts. It’s a bit like how you feel when your boss keeps piling on the work and you eventually get used to it (not that you’re happy about it, but you’ve adapted).

Then there’s physiological adaptation, which is like your body’s superhero training. It’s the biochemical process that happens when environmental stressors push your body to adapt so it can respond more effectively. Your body goes from chilling in homeostasis (aka “peaceful equilibrium”) to a heightened state of resistance, ready to fight any stress that comes its way. Think of it as your body getting a personal trainer, like when Thor hurls his mighty hammer at you and suddenly you're stronger, faster, and more capable of handling the chaos.

This all ties into the General Adaptation Syndrome—basically, how your body reacts to stress. It has three stages: alarm (that "Oh no!" moment when you get a surprise email from your boss), adaptation (where your body’s like, "Okay, I got this!" and starts pumping out those stress hormones), and exhaustion (where your body’s like, "Please, I need a nap... or a vacation... preferably both."). It’s a lot like watching Hulk transform—first, there’s the trigger (alarm), then Hulk adapts by smashing everything in his path (adaptation), and eventually, if Hulk’s been smashing too much, he’s ready to collapse into a pile of exhaustion.

But not all stress is bad! We have eustress, which is the good kind that gets you motivated to tackle a challenge, and then there's distress, which is the kind that can lead to heart attacks, strokes, and all sorts of not-so-fun stuff. You don’t want to be stuck in distress for too long, unless you’re secretly hoping to turn into the Hulk... but even the Hulk needs a break, right?

Here’s where adaptogens come in like your very own Captain America, swooping in to save the day. These natural compounds are like nature’s personal trainers for your stress levels. They whisper to your cells, “Take a breath, buddy. We’ve got this!” They don’t just mask the symptoms of stress—they help build resilience, making you stronger over time. So instead of turning into a Hulk-sized ball of anger and frustration, you’ll stay cool, calm, and collected like Black Widow after a deep breath... and maybe a cup of tea.

So, next time you feel the stress building up, remember: adaptogens are like the Avengers for your nervous system. No need to turn green and smash things. Just take a breath, and let these powerful compounds help you adapt, recharge, and keep your balance. You’ve got this. And if you ever need a bit of extra help, remember—there’s always a Hulk-sized amount of resilience waiting for you!

Why Ashwagandha? The Adaptogen You'll Actually Want to Use

When life feels like it's about to snap under the weight of stress, it’s time to call in your secret weapon: Ashwagandha. Think of it as your personal hero, swooping in with a calming, steadying force when everything around you feels chaotic. Just like a seasoned mentor who always knows how to bring balance, Ashwagandha helps you stay energized, focused, and chill—all at once.

With Ashwagandha, you're tapping into one of nature’s oldest, most powerful life hacks. It's like having a trusted ally in your corner, making sure you stay calm, clear-headed, and ready to tackle whatever comes your way—without losing your cool. Ready to feel like a hero in your own life? Ashwagandha got you covered.

Wait, So...What’s Ashwagandha, Anyway?

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera, fam. Solanaceae) is commonly known as “Indian Winter cherry” or “Indian Ginseng”. It is one of the most important herb of Ayurveda (the traditional system of medicine in India) used for millennia as a Rasayana for its wide ranging health benefits. Rasayana is described as an herbal or metallic preparation that promotes a youthful state of physical and mental health and expands happiness.

The biologically active chemical constituents of Withania somnifera (WS) include alkaloids (isopelletierine, anaferine, cuseohygrine, anahygrine, etc.), steroidal lactones (withanolides, withaferins) and saponins . Sitoindosides and acylsterylglucosides in Ashwagandha are anti- stress agents. Active principles of Ashwagandha, for instance the sitoindosides VII–X and Withaferin-A, have been shown to have significant anti-stress activity against acute models of experimental stress . Many of its constituents support immunomodulatory actions.

Here’s What Ashwagandha Actually Does for Your Body

Ashwagandha’s benefits have been well documented across a variety of studies, particularly in the realms of stress management, cognitive health, and even cancer prevention. Let's dive into the science behind this potent herb and explore how it can serve as a comprehensive tonic for both mind and body

1. Stress Resistance and Endurance: 

One of Ashwagandha's most significant benefits is its ability to improve stress resilience. Animal studies have consistently shown that Ashwagandha helps animals cope better with stress, both physically and mentally. In a notable swimming endurance test conducted on rats, Ashwagandha nearly doubled their endurance time, signaling a marked improvement in physical performance. This result demonstrates Ashwagandha’s potential as a natural adaptogen, helping the body withstand prolonged stress and enhancing overall stamina.

The herb’s efficacy doesn’t stop at endurance. It has also been shown to help regulate cortisol, a hormone produced during stress, as well as ascorbic acid levels in the adrenal glands, both of which typically decline under chronic stress. This balance is crucial for improving stress resilience. Furthermore, Ashwagandha has been found to significantly reduce stress-induced gastric ulcers, further emphasizing its role in safeguarding the body during times of mental strain.

2. Immune Support: 

Ashwagandha also plays a critical role in maintaining immune function, especially in the face of stress. Stress-induced conditions often lead to an increase in white blood cells (a condition called leukocytosis), but studies have shown that Ashwagandha helps to lower leukocytosis, thereby promoting a healthier immune response. Its adaptogenic properties help the body resist the physiological and biochemical impacts of stress, allowing it to maintain better overall health.

The herb has even shown mild anabolic (muscle-building) effects, promoting slight increases in body weight over time. This benefit is especially valuable for those under physical or emotional strain, as it supports muscle health and maintains a balanced metabolism.

3. Cognitive Benefits

Ashwagandha is classified as a Medhyarasayana, a subgroup of Rasayanas specifically focused on mental and intellectual health. Medhya refers to the intellect, memory, and cognitive faculties, and herbs within this category, like Ashwagandha, are used to enhance mental clarity, memory, and overall brain function.

In both traditional and modern contexts, Ashwagandha has been found to have promising effects on cognitive health. It has shown particular promise in cases where memory is compromised, such as following head injury, prolonged illness, or age-related decline. For children with memory deficits, Ashwagandha has demonstrated the ability to improve recall, mental clarity, and cognitive development. In elderly individuals, it has been beneficial in improving cognitive function, preventing or slowing memory loss associated with aging, and mitigating the effects of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

4. Ashwagandha as a Neuroprotective Agent in Neurodegenerative Diseases:

Ashwagandha's role in promoting brain health extends to its potential therapeutic effects in neurodegenerative diseases. Studies have shown that Ashwagandha helps reverse neuritic atrophy (shrinkage of nerve fibers), promotes neurogenesis (the growth of new neurons), and enhances overall cognitive function. The herb’s GABA-mimetic properties (similar to the neurotransmitter GABA) further enhance its potential in treating neurodegenerative conditions by stabilizing brain activity and improving neuronal health. These effects make Ashwagandha a powerful ally in the fight against diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and other forms of cognitive decline. 

5. Anti-Cancer Properties: 

In addition to its cognitive and stress-relieving benefits, Ashwagandha has shown promising anti-cancer potential. Research has indicated that Ashwagandha inhibits cell growth and colony formation in cancer cells, making it a valuable adjunct to traditional cancer therapies. In studies on Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells, Ashwagandha demonstrated its ability to hinder the proliferation of cancer cells, showing potential as a synergizer with chemotherapy. Furthermore, it has shown efficacy in preventing lung adenomas in mice (a type of lung cancer), and in reducing leucopenia (low white blood cell count), improving overall immune function during cancer treatment.

6. The All-in-One Tonic for Complete Wellness

Beyond its cognitive and anti-cancer benefits, Ashwagandha is a well-rounded herb with a host of additional advantages. It is widely recognized for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic (pain-

relieving), and anti-arthritic properties. This makes it an excellent remedy for a variety of physical ailments, particularly those linked to chronic inflammation and stress.

In Ayurveda, Ashwagandha is considered one of the best nervine tonics, nourishing the nervous system and supporting emotional balance. It is commonly used as a rejuvenating tonic for both elderly individuals and children, improving vitality and overall health. Young people also use it for its aphrodisiac effects, boosting energy and vitality in both physical and mental aspects.

Ashwagandha by RediClinic: Organic Extract with Black Pepper | 2100mg | 90 Capsules 

Key Features & Benefits:

• Powerful Organic Ashwagandha Extract: Each capsule contains 2100mg of organic Ashwagandha, a high-quality, potent dose designed to support your body's natural ability to manage stress, reduce anxiety, and restore balance. This adaptogen helps your body cope with stress more effectively, promoting calm and mental clarity.
• Enhanced Absorption with Black Pepper: Black pepper (Piper nigrum) is valued for its active compound piperine, which enhances digestion by stimulating pancreatic enzymes and reducing gastrointestinal transit time. Piperine also acts as a potent antioxidant, protecting against oxidative stress by quenching free radicals and lowering lipid peroxidation. Additionally, piperine boosts the bioavailability of various therapeutic drugs and phytochemicals by inhibiting liver enzymes and improving intestinal absorption.
• Easy Steps to Add Ashwagandha to Your Day: Take two capsules daily—one in the morning and one at night after meals or as directed by your healthcare provider. A steady intake can enhance its effects, helping you face your day with greater balance.

Conclusion

Feeling overwhelmed? Think of RediClinic’s Ashwagandha as your personal Infinity Stone— just one dose and you're ready to take on the world with supercharged energy and stress-busting powers. Who needs a cape when you’ve got nature’s own secret weapon? Whether you're tackling stress, boosting your mood, or just looking for that extra spark in your day, these capsules are your go-to for conquering life’s curveballs.

So why wait? Embrace the power of Ashwagandha and feel the difference—your body (and mind) will thank you!

Take the plunge with Ashwagandha today, unleash your superhero potential, and let your best self shine!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

1. What is Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera, fam. Solanaceae) is commonly known as “Indian Winter cherry” or “Indian Ginseng”. It is one of the most important herbs of Ayurveda (the traditional system of medicine in India) used for millennia for its wide ranging health benefits.

2. What is the biggest benefit of Ashwagandha?

Studies suggest that Ashwagandha may have neuroprotective activity, possess anti- inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antibacterial properties, and offer cardioprotective benefits. Additionally, it may help treat sleep disorders, improve stress resilience, reduce anxiety, and enhance muscle strength and recovery.

3. Is daily consumption of Ashwagandha safe?

Yes, it is generally safe to take Ashwagandha every day for most people. However, it's important to follow the recommended dosage and consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you're on medication or have pre-existing health conditions. Some people may cycle its use or take breaks periodically.

4. Is it safe to take Ashwagandha long-term?

Ashwagandha is generally considered safe for short-term use, typically up to 3 months. However, long-term use may not be suitable for everyone. Some individuals may experience side effects such as drowsiness, stomach upset, diarrhea, or vomiting. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement, especially for long-term use.

5. What to avoid when taking ashwagandha?

If you take any drugs or supplements regularly, talk to your doctor before you start using ashwagandha supplements. They could interact with sedatives, blood thinners, thyroid supplements, drugs that suppress the immune system, and drugs for anxiety, high blood pressure, and diabetes.

6. Can I take ashwagandha on an empty stomach?

Ashwagandha can be taken at any time of the day based on personal preference, preferably after meals. Taking Ashwagandha on an empty stomach may cause stomach discomfort.

Dr. Alakha AS, BAMS

Dr. Alakha graduated, BAMS physician from MGR University P.S. Varier Ayurveda College in Kottakkal