How Does Ashwagandha Help Alleviate Menopause Symptoms?

SadaNews - Women going through menopause experience hormonal changes that lead to bothersome symptoms such as fatigue, insomnia, brain fog, hot flashes, and increased stress. Ashwagandha, a well-known herbal supplement, is a natural option to support hormonal balance, improve sleep quality, and reduce stress.

A report published on the "Verywell Health" website highlights the main benefits of ashwagandha for women in menopause and how it can help alleviate common symptoms and improve daily quality of life.

1. Hormonal Balance

Hormonal imbalances are the primary cause of most menopause symptoms. Ashwagandha can help balance several hormones, targeting the root cause of discomfort.

As estrogen levels decrease during this phase, cortisol (the stress hormone) levels may rise, leading to common symptoms like fatigue, insomnia, brain fog, anxiety, and more.

Studies have shown that ashwagandha can help reduce cortisol levels, which may alleviate these symptoms.

2. Improved Sleep

If menopause symptoms are causing insomnia or sleep issues, women might benefit from ashwagandha. Research suggests that ashwagandha may improve sleep quality, allowing for more sleep and better rest with fewer nighttime awakenings.

3. Alleviating Brain Fog

The term "brain fog" refers to symptoms like poor concentration, difficulty paying attention, and memory decline, which are common among women going through menopause.

Taking ashwagandha may help the brain feel clearer; one study showed that women who took ashwagandha capsules for 90 days improved their ability to concentrate, pay attention, and remember, compared to those who did not take the supplement.

These effects may also be a result of improved sleep and reduced stress, both factors that affect cognitive function and help alleviate forgetfulness.

4. Stress Management Assistance

Ashwagandha can regulate cortisol levels, a marker of stress, and research indicates that lower cortisol levels associated with ashwagandha intake are also linked to a lower feeling of stress.

In other words, the body and mind may find it easier to cope with stress when using ashwagandha.

5. Alleviating Hot Flashes

Taking ashwagandha may help reduce hot flashes, which are uncomfortable sensations of excessive heat in the face, neck, and upper body, experienced by about three-quarters of women nearing menopause.

A study found that taking ashwagandha twice daily for eight weeks led to a significant reduction in hot flashes, along with improvements in the physical and psychological symptoms associated with menopause.