Discover What Science Reveals About Ashwagandha
Published: 21 May, 2025 | 4'
In light of the increasing concern for mental wellbeing, more and more people are turning to natural alternatives to support it. In fact, the growing interest in dietary supplements continues to drive the popularity of these natural ingredients, fueled by this heightened awareness about caring for emotional wellbeing and the preference for naturally sourced solutions3.
In this regard, ashwagandha, a plant used for nearly 3,000 years in traditional Indian medicine known as Ayurveda, has gained significant prominence.
Discover the role of this plant in the nervous system with the help of Dr Jacinto Valverde Navas, an internist and health communicator.
What does it mean that Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic plant?
This plant has been attributed with adaptogenic properties, which means that its bioactive compounds can act on various processes within the body, enhancing its ability to respond in a balanced way to external factors that disrupt its stability, thereby mitigating their effects on both physical and mental levels. This term describes the ability of herbs like ashwagandha to adapt to environmental challenges, reducing any potential negative effects both physically and emotionally, and thus promoting a better overall state4.
Additionally, recent studies have shown that supplementation with ashwagandha supports cognitive function, specifically memory and mental clarity, making it a natural ally for the brain5. “These benefits make it an ideal supplement during times of high intellectual demand, nervousness, or difficulty falling asleep. Its use is becoming increasingly common among people with a fast-paced lifestyle or those seeking natural alternatives to care for their emotional wellbeing,” confirms the doctor.
Supplements like Triptofamar Plus, which incorporate ashwagandha alongside a combination of other ingredients, may enhance these positive effects on mood and facilitate relaxation and restful sleep.
The active compounds in ashwagandha, known as withanolides, exert antioxidant activity which, at a cerebral level, supports an optimal environment for mental functioning1. “This plant has demonstrated a remarkable ability to modulate cortisol levels, a hormone that is activated under demanding situations and directly affects systems such as the nervous, immune, or cardiovascular systems. This action allows the body to respond in a more balanced way, exerting positive effects on mood, mental clarity, and sleep quality. Therefore, it is a widely used supplement among people undergoing periods of high mental load and intensity,” adds Dr Valverde.
Ashwagandha and its role in nocturnal rest
On the other hand, this plant has proven useful in promoting restorative sleep, particularly in individuals with difficulty falling asleep6. “Various studies have demonstrated that taking supplements with ashwagandha root extract can help initiate rest more easily and deeply, with a good tolerance profile,” affirms the doctor.
Ashwagandha has been effective in various populations, such as older adults or those with non-restorative sleep. Its use suggests that it facilitates a greater total amount of quality rest. Several studies also conclude that it may aid recovery after nights of insufficient sleep, positively impacting both attention and coordination7.
Supplements with Ashwagandha
Finally, it is a very good option to look for dietary supplements containing ashwagandha that also include other ingredients that support its adaptogenic properties. For instance, Rhodiola, a botanical species of Asian origin that contributes to mental and physical performance8, and Bacopa, which helps maintain cognitive functions, particularly those related to memory and learning, in addition to promoting relaxation9. Magnesium is another component recommended in combination with these ingredients, as it supports normal cognitive function and helps reduce fatigue. Additionally, B vitamins, especially B6, support the normal function of the nervous system and help reduce fatigue.
If you want to know more about your nervous system…
- Exam Season: How It Affects Our Nervous System?
- Your Two Allies for Mood and Night Rest
- Explore How Magnesium Benefits Muscles and the Nervous System
Content created in collaboration with Dr Jacinto Valverde Navas. This article is informative and does not substitute a consultation with a specialist.
About the specialist
Dr Jacinto Valverde Navas
With over 30 years of experience, Dr Jacinto Valverde Navas is the head of the Internal Medicine Service at the Beata Mª Ana de Jesús Hospital in Madrid, where he provides comprehensive and scientific clinical care to patients from a holistic perspective.
