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Ashwagandha

 

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an evergreen shrub from the nightshade family. Known by names such as Indian ginseng and winter cherry, it is native to India, the Middle East, and parts of Africa. Its Sanskrit name refers to the scent of the root and its traditional association with strength and vitality.

Modern research suggests Ashwagandha may support overall well-being. This is linked to natural compounds called withanolides, which interact with pathways in the brain connected to calmness and emotional balance. Studies have explored Ashwagandha’s potential influence on cortisol levels, sleep quality, fatigue, and general wellness.

 

Ashwagandha Research

A Standardized Withania Somnifera Extract — Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study

This 16-month study examined a standardized extract among individuals reporting ongoing life-related pressure. Participants were assigned to placebo, 125 mg once daily, 125 mg twice daily, or 250 mg twice daily.

Measurements collected at baseline and day 60 included:

  • cortisol levels

  • C-reactive protein

  • heart rate and blood pressure

  • self-reported experiences such as restlessness, fatigue, tension, or sleep difficulty

Researchers noted measurable differences in both questionnaire-based assessments and biochemical readings among those receiving Ashwagandha.

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A Prospective, Randomized Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of a High-Concentration Full-Spectrum Extract of Ashwagandha Root in Adults Seeking Support for Emotional Well-Being

In this study of 64 adults experiencing ongoing mental load, researchers evaluated daily Ashwagandha extract for 60 days, using:

  • mental-related questionnaires

  • serum cortisol

Participants receiving the extract displayed notable changes across these measures, and researchers described improvements in overall perceived well-being.

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A Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Evaluation of the Anxiolytic Efficacy Of An Ethanolic Extract Of Withania Somnifera 

This study examined how Ashwagandha extract influenced individuals experiencing heightened emotional tension. After six weeks, researchers observed improvements in calmness-related scoring tools and overall emotional balance.

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A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-controlled Study of Ashwagandha on Generalized Mental Strain

This 60-day study evaluated Ashwagandha granules in participants aged 16–60. Researchers recorded changes in:

  • Self-reported mood and tension

Participants receiving Ashwagandha showed measurable improvements across these assessments compared with baseline.

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Chamomile

 

Chamomile has a long history of traditional use. Today, Roman and German chamomile are the most common varieties, with German chamomile frequently studied in modern research.

The sedative-related effects of chamomile may be due to the fact that it contains apigenin, which binds to benzodiazepine receptors and supports natural relaxation pathways. Apigenin may also block the MAO enzyme, a mechanism reported to affect monoamine levels. Chamomile also includes the flavonoid chrysin, which has been explored in research for its calming properties.

 

Chamomile Studies

Long-term chamomile use: A randomized clinical study on emotional balance

This two-phase study followed 179 adults. After an initial chamomile intake period, respondents were randomized to either continue chamomile or receive placebo for 26 weeks.

Findings included:

  • changes in GAD-related questionnaire scores

  • shifts in weight and blood pressure

  • differences between chamomile and placebo groups during follow-up

Researchers reported that those continuing chamomile maintained lower questionnaire scores related to daily unease.

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A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial of Oral Matricaria recutita (Chamomile) Extract for Generalized mental discomfort

This study evaluated chamomile extract for eight weeks in 57 participants. Researchers measured:

  • subjective well-being

  • Clinical Global Impression (severity)

The chamomile group showed greater shifts across these measurements than placebo.

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Chamomile and Mood — Exploratory Study

This double-blind, placebo-controlled trial assessed chamomile extract among individuals experiencing both anxiety and lowered mood. Researchers evaluated changes in Hamilton Depression Rating scores.

Chamomile showed larger changes than placebo across both full-score and core-score measurements.

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Mimosa Bark

 

Mimosa Bark (He Huan Pi) has longstanding traditional use in East Asian herbal systems, associated with calmness and emotional ease. Modern research examines Albizia julibrissin, a key natural component, for its interaction with pathways linked to relaxation.

Monoamine Neurotransmitters 

Animal studies explore how A. julibrissin may influence:

  • serotonin

  • dopamine

  • norepinephrine

These studies examine behavioral responses in emotional-induced models and the plant’s interaction with the 5-HT1A receptor, which is associated with regulating calmness and emotional steadiness.  

Flavonol Glycosides 

A. julibrissin contains quercetin and isoquercitrin, flavonol glycosides studied for:

  • cellular protection from oxidative stress

  • supporting the body’s natural response to mental load

  • promoting relaxation-related behavioral changes in animal models

Quercetin has been examined for its influence on cognitive processes and responses to stress-induced challenges, while isoquercitrin has been associated with calming behavioral effects in preclinical studies.