Mayo Clinic Q and A: Can Ashwagandha Supplements Help with Anxiety?
Millions of people around the world suffer from anxiety, which can be debilitating, whether it manifests as restlessness, persistent worry, or even physical symptoms like a racing heart.
Many folks look for gentle, natural ways to ease their anxiety, either alongside or instead of traditional treatments.
One natural remedy that’s been gaining attention is Ashwagandha, a time-honored herb from Ayurvedic medicine.
Among its different forms, a special extract called KSM 66 Ashwagandha stands out for its unique qualities and strength.
In this article, we’ll dive into what KSM 66 Ashwagandha is, how it might help with anxiety, and what science and experts like the Mayo Clinic say about it.
What is KSM 66 Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), a plant indigenous to India and its environs, has been used for thousands of years by people to increase vitality, lower stress levels, and enhance general health.
It’s classified as an adaptogen, meaning it helps your body better handle physical and mental stress.
KSM 66 is a patented extract made from the whole root of Ashwagandha, containing a balanced mix of its active compounds called withanolides.
Unlike some extracts that focus on just one ingredient, KM 66 keeps the full spectrum of natural components, which might help your body absorb and benefit from it better.
You’ll often find KSM 66 in supplements aimed at supporting relaxation and resilience to stress.
Understanding Anxiety and Its Treatments
In addition to physical symptoms like tense muscles or a racing heart, anxiety disorders like panic disorder, social anxiety, and generalized anxiety are typified by excessive worry, irritability, and trouble focusing.
Common treatments include therapy (like cognitive behavioral therapy) and medications such as SSRIs or benzodiazepines.
But these don’t work for everyone, and some come with side effects or aren’t easily accessible.
That’s why many people turn to natural options like Ashwagandha to help manage their symptoms.
What Does the Science Say About KSM 66 Ashwagandha?
Research into KSM 66 shows promising results. For example, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that people taking KM 66 for eight weeks saw notable drops in stress and anxiety levels (1).
KSM 66 works by helping regulate the body’s stress response system—specifically the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which controls cortisol (the stress hormone).
By lowering cortisol, KSM 66 may ease both the mental and physical symptoms of anxiety.
It also influences neurotransmitters like GABA, which help calm the nervous system. This combination of effects gives KSM 66 its calming, adaptogenic qualities.
Compared to other Ashwagandha extracts, KM 66’s full-root approach may provide a more balanced and effective experience.
Still, more research is underway to better understand its benefits across different groups.
What Does the Mayo Clinic Say?
The Mayo Clinic recognizes Ashwagandha as a popular herbal supplement and notes some evidence for its stress-reducing effects (2).
However, they emphasize that more solid research is needed to fully confirm its effectiveness.
They also advise talking to your healthcare provider before using Ashwagandha, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have autoimmune conditions.
And importantly, Ashwagandha should never replace prescribed treatments without professional guidance (3).
Is Ashwagandha Safe?
Generally, Ashwagandha is safe when used as directed. Some people might experience mild side effects like stomach upset, headaches, or drowsiness.
KSM 66, being a high-quality, standardized extract, is considered safe within recommended doses.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women and those with certain health issues should use caution and consult their doctor first (4).
It can also interact with some medications, such as sedatives, thyroid drugs, or blood pressure medicines.
So, it’s always best to check with a healthcare professional before starting.
How to Use KSM 66 Ashwagandha
You can find KSM 66 Ashwagandha in capsules, powders, and tinctures. Typical doses range from 250 to 600 mg daily, based on studies.
Make sure to follow the instructions on the product label, choose supplements from trustworthy brands with third-party testing, and take them consistently for the best chance of seeing benefits.
Extra Perks of KM 66 Ashwagandha
Beyond easing anxiety, KSM 66 may also improve sleep, boost energy, increase physical endurance, and even sharpen memory and mental clarity. These added benefits can support your overall well-being (5).
Using Ashwagandha as Part of a Balanced Approach
While KSM 66 shows promise, it shouldn’t be your only strategy for managing anxiety.
A balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress-reduction strategies are all important aspects of good health.
Professional therapy or counseling is key for moderate to severe anxiety. Think of Ashwagandha as a helpful supplement that fits into a bigger picture of mental health care.
In Summary
KSM 66 Ashwagandha is a carefully crafted, full-spectrum extract that science suggests may help reduce anxiety by calming the body’s stress response. It’s a promising natural option to support mental wellness, but it should be used thoughtfully and alongside professional advice.
If you’re curious whether KSM 66 Ashwagandha could fit into your anxiety management plan, have a chat with your healthcare provider to see what’s best for you.
✨ Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety? Talk to your healthcare provider and start your journey to stress relief today! 💚
FAQs on Can Ashwagandha Supplements Help with Anxiety?
Can KSM 66 Ashwagandha make me drowsy?
Some people do feel mild drowsiness, especially at first. Taking it in the evening might help.
How soon will I notice the effects?
Most studies report improvements within 4 to 8 weeks of consistent use, but it varies per person.
Is Ashwagandha addictive?
No, it’s not habit-forming and is safe for long-term use when taken properly.
Can kids take Ashwagandha?
Research in children is limited. Check with a pediatrician before giving it to minors.
Are there drug interactions?
Yes, it may interact with sedatives, thyroid meds, immunosuppressants, and blood pressure drugs. Always consult your doctor first.
Related Studies
1. Title: Effect of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Extract on Stress and the HPA Axis: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study
This clinical trial demonstrated that Ashwagandha supplementation significantly reduces cortisol levels and modulates the HPA axis, thereby lowering stress and anxiety markers in adults.
Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23439798/
2. Title: 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
This randomized controlled trial using the KM 66 extract showed significant improvements in anxiety and stress symptoms with good safety and tolerability over 60 days.
Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23439798/
3. Title: Ashwagandha (Mayo Clinic Overview)
The Mayo Clinic recognizes Ashwagandha as an adaptogen with potential benefits for anxiety and stress, citing evidence for its calming effects, but advises consultation before use due to variability in individual responses.
Link: https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-ashwagandha/art-20362245
4. Title: Ashwagandha: Safety and Toxicological Evaluation of Withania somnifera
This safety review found Ashwagandha to have a favorable safety profile with rare adverse effects and minimal known drug interactions when taken at recommended doses.
Link: https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/ashwagandha
5. Title: Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha Root Extract in the Treatment of Stress and Anxiety: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study
This study supports that typical doses of 300-600 mg daily of Ashwagandha root extract over 6-8 weeks effectively reduce anxiety symptoms with onset of noticeable benefits around 4-6 weeks.
Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23439798/
