In this next post, we will be discussing Ashwagandha, a popular herbal supplement known for its potential benefits on stress reduction, cognitive function, and sleep quality. We will examine what Ashwagandha is, its effects on the body and brain, its benefits for sleep, its potential side effects, and why we did not include it in our Knocked formula.
What is Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha is a herb traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine, which is native to India, the Middle East, and North Africa. Its scientific name is Withania somnifera, and it is also known as Indian ginseng or winter cherry. Ashwagandha contains active compounds such as withanolides, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties.
Effects on the Body and Brain
Ashwagandha is known for its potential effects on stress reduction and cognitive function. It has been shown to reduce cortisol levels, a hormone that is released in response to stress, which can lead to anxiety and disrupted sleep. Ashwagandha has also been shown to improve memory, attention, and reaction time, which can contribute to better cognitive performance and overall wellbeing.
Benefits for Sleep
In addition to its potential effects on stress and cognition, Ashwagandha has also been studied for its potential benefits on sleep quality. Some studies have found that Ashwagandha supplementation can improve sleep onset latency, total sleep time, and sleep efficiency. It is believed that these effects may be due to Ashwagandha's ability to reduce cortisol levels, which can contribute to a more relaxed and restful state.
Potential Side Effects
While Ashwagandha is generally considered safe for most people when taken in recommended doses, it can cause side effects in some cases. Common side effects may include upset stomach, diarrhea, and nausea. Ashwagandha may also interact with certain medications, such as sedatives and thyroid hormones, and should not be taken by pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Why we didn't include Ashwagandha in our Knocked formula
Despite its potential benefits for sleep, we did not include Ashwagandha in our Knocked formula due to safety concerns. Ashwagandha is not recommended for daily use, as it may have adverse effects on the thyroid gland and liver function. Long-term use of Ashwagandha has also been associated with increased risk of gastrointestinal issues, such as ulcers and inflammation. As a result, we chose to exclude Ashwagandha from our formula and focus on other safe and effective ingredients that can be used nightly without concern.
Ashwagandha is a popular herbal supplement known for its potential benefits on stress reduction, cognitive function, and sleep quality. While it may offer some benefits for sleep, it also has potential side effects and safety concerns that should be considered before use. At Knocked, we prioritize the safety and efficacy of our formula, which is why we did not include Ashwagandha in our product. We hope that this review has provided you with valuable information on Ashwagandha and its potential role in improving sleep quality.
