Ashwagandha May Be Potentially Helpful Against OCD

(Newswire.net — October 27, 2016) Winnetka, IL — Ashwagandha is one of the herbs that many people turn to in hopes to fight symptoms or improve their overall health. Individuals who suffer psychologically may also want to take into account the use of this herb.

Ashwagandha may be potentially helpful against OCD. Obsessive-compulsive disorder is usually treated through the use of cognitive behavioral therapy as well as antidepressant medications.

This condition may cause sufferers to have obsessive, obtrusive thoughts and compulsive actions. Counseling as well as medication treatment are believed to be effective in varying degrees.

Individuals who suffer from mild distress due to OCD and do not want to use prescription medications often consider natural alternatives, such as ashwagandha.

This ancient herb has long been popularized by its possible sedative, calming effect on the nervous system. It has traditionally been used by those suffering from anxiety, stress, pain, diabetes, fatigue, epilepsy, and arthritis.

Since many consider it to be helpful with stress and anxiety, it may have the potential to reduce compulsive urges. It is important to remember that stress and anxiety may potentially increase OCD symptoms.

There are other names ashwagandha goes by such as winter cherry, Withania somnifera, and Indian ginseng. It is native to Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and certain areas of North Africa.

It is believed to be a powerful traditional supplement that can aid in the body’s ability to heal itself. This herb has biochemicals known as withanolides, which are precursors to some of the hormones in the body.

According to some experts, when the withanolides stick themselves to the hormone receptor sites in the body, this renders the hormones ineffective. Scientists theorized that the plant may have the potential to aid GABA, which is the brain’s neurotransmitter, in doing its job.

GABA works by suppressing brain activity, and it usually does a majority of its work in the basal ganglia. The basal ganglia is the part of the brain that takes care of voluntary control, managing reward, and motivation. Individuals who suffer from OCD are thought to have abnormal activity in the basal ganglia.

Today, there is quite a number of medications OCD sufferers use in fighting symptoms. However, many of these medications may be ineffective and are even unsafe to use. This is why many sufferers turn to the use of natural alternatives, such as ashwagandha.

This herbal supplement is believed to offer a myriad of health benefits. Individuals who want to take advantage of the potential effects of this plant may turn to supplementation.

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