Ashwagandha, the ancient Ayurvedic herb is known to increase serotonin levels significantly. Due to its adaptogenic properties, it can modulate neurotransmitter levels to elevate the mood. Ashwagandha also leads to an increase in GABA and Acetylcholine. An excess of serotonin is associated with Serotonin Syndrome.
How Does Ashwagandha Increase Serotonin Levels?
Serotonin is a famous neurotransmitter known for its ability to elevate the mood and encourage a sense of well-being.
It impacts the entire body and not just the brain; hence also plays a role in digestion and sleeping!
Even though there is limited research on the mechanism of Ashwagandha’s Serotonin enhancing capabilities, it is said that it accomplishes it by enhancing the serotonin receptors in the brain.
This in turn leads to boosted Serotonin levels.
For that to happen, it is advised to take Ashwagandha long-term.
In this study, they wanted to find out the answer to the regularly asked question: “Does ashwagandha increase serotonin?”
It was actually found that Ashwagandha leads to an increase in Serotonin levels significantly.
With more of it concentrating in the hippocampal region of the brain!
This study was conducted to implore the anti-addiction action of Ashwagandha in alcohol-ridden mice.
The Serotonin Syndrome
This syndrome is characterized by an excess of Serotonin!
And it doesn’t exactly mean one would get to experience euphoria; in fact, it can get so fatal that it may lead to death!
It usually arises with the use of serotonergic medications, and in worse case scenarios, their abuse!
Serotonin Syndrom Symptoms Include:
⦁ High blood pressure
⦁ High body temperature
⦁ Tachycardia
⦁ Tremors
⦁ Sweating
⦁ Diarrhea
It is Induced by the Following Drugs and/or Medications:
⦁ SSRI’s
⦁ SNRI’s
⦁ Tricyclic antidepressants
⦁ Amphetamine
⦁ Tramadol
⦁ Cocaine
⦁ Ecstacy
⦁ Metoclopramide
It is also Induced by the Following Nootropics:
⦁ St. John’s Wort
⦁ Syrian Rue
⦁ Panax Ginseng
⦁ Yohimbe
Ashwagandha Also Modulates GABA Levels
GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter involved in blocking out excitatory stimuli.
This also includes the elimination of spells of anxiety!
It is thus declared as the ‘calming’ neurotransmitter.
Ashwagandha acts as a GABA-agonist and hence leads to the differential activation of its receptors.
In other words, Ashwagandha binds to GABA receptors and causes more of it to get released in the body.
Does ashwagandha increase gaba?
This study proves that Ashwagandha promotes GABAergic signaling in the brain.
The Results Of Increased GABA And Serotonin
⦁ Alleviated symptoms of anxiety
⦁ Significantly elevated mood state
⦁ Reduced stress and anxiety
⦁ Positive mind state
How Ashwagandha Increases Acetylcholine Levels
Acetylcholine is the primary neurotransmitter of the brain.
It has numerous functions (and benefits).
Ashwagandha leads to an increase in this neurotransmitter by blocking the enzyme that is responsible for its degradation.
That enzyme is known as Acetylcholinesterase.
This study proves its action!
Decreased acetylcholine levels in the brain are responsible for declining cognitive function and memory strength.
It is also the main reason for Alzheimer’s disease.
The Results Of Increased Acetylcholine Levels
⦁ Superior memory formation
⦁ Superior memory recall
⦁ Enhanced cognitive function
⦁ Normal muscle function
⦁ Boosted neuronal plasticity
⦁ Fine motor skill enhancement
⦁ Alertness
⦁ Better learning skills
Does Ashwagandha Increase Serotonin? – My Final Thoughts…
So, does ashwagandha increase serotonin?
Yes! It sure does.
It not only does that, but also regulates GABA receptors and has an important effect on reducing the acetylcholinesterase enzyme.
All of this helps with anxiety and stress while improving memory, learning, and cognition.
However, we suggest for you to get an in-depth understanding of Ashwagandha as a herb and adaptogen.
Please do refer to our article dedicated to the miraculous effects of Ashwagandha here!
Quick Question… Have You taken ashwagandha before?
Please drop a comment below in the comment section and share your experience with ashwagandha as a mood regulating nootropic.
Ashwagandha is an amazing natural herb with many benefits.
It affects each person a bit differently, so i’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences with this serotonin increasing miracle herb.
About David Gracey
Founder of SuperMindHacker.com
In other words, I am completely obsessed with anything and everything related to cognitive brain enhancement!
Whether it's nootropics supplements, challenging brain puzzles, or even meditation techniques, chances are, I've tried it! This website is my outlet to give back and share what I've learned in the past 15+ years in this field of study.
You Can Read my Other Posts Here: David Gracey's Articles
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