It is very common for me to ask my patients to use herbs known as Adaptogens. Adaptogens help the body to ‘adapt’ to various stressors they experience, whether they are mental or physical stress.
And as we know stress and anxiety have become all too common in the modern, fast-paced lifestyle of many Canadians. Although we are often unable to change certain environmental stressors and life circumstances, fortunately we can support the body’s resilience to stress.
I really like 2 common adaptogens. Ashwagandha and L-theanine
Ashwagandha, also known as Withania root, as extensive clinical research to support its use for stress-related health concerns. Ashwagandha has over 20 human clinical trials to support its efficacy in areas of memory and cognition, stress reduction, improved thyroid function and weight management. It has specifically been studied and shown to improve sperm parameters, muscle strength, testosterone levels in males, as well as sexual function in females.
L-Theanine is a single amino acid naturally found in green tea that is well-known to calm the mind and improve focus. Research has found that L-theanine can positively act on various neurotransmitters in the brain such as serotonin, dopamine and GABA, ultimately leading to an increase in alpha-brain waves and a calm, yet focused, state. Clinical trials have confirmed that these actions lead to reduced stress and improved mood in individuals given supplemental L-theanine, with animal studies showing that it can also improve learning capacity.
L-theanine has many potential applications outside of cognition and mental health. The cardiovascular benefits of L-theanine have been demonstrated through blood pressure reductions and inhibition of LDL cholesterol oxidation. L-theanine supplementation has also been documented to increase glutathione levels, protect healthy cells from chemotherapeutic agents, protect the liver and improve measures of immunity. Collectively, L-theanine balances the nervous system and provides potent antioxidant support to protect the body from damage.
Ashwagandha Matrix is a combination from CytoMatrix that I have recently found that has been a huge asset to many of my patients.. This simple combination allows for optimal relaxation and cognitive support with improved patient compliance. Ashwagandha Matrix can be used to reduce stress and cortisol levels, balance mood, improve memory and cognition, aid sleep and improve sexual function in both males and females.