The viral TikTok supplement, ashwagandha, is generating a lot of traffic these days for good reason, allegedly being able to remove your feelings. Yes, you read that right. Ashwagandha is an evergreen shrub, Withania Somnifera, from the nightshade family. The plant has been used as an adaptogen, which helps the body resist physical and mental stress. 

Ashwagandha, Can It Cure My Broken Heart?

People have been using this herbal supplement for thousands of years to cope with stress, increase energy, and improve concentration. With depression and anxiety rates at an all-time high, you can definitely see why ashwagandha is currently trending on TikTok. People are constantly searching for methods to improve their mental health without taking the route of prescription medication. Many users have even joked that the supplement, “cures a broken heart” as you don’t feel anything. 

It could be because the adaptogen reduces the activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA), a system in your body that regulates stress. The proof is also in the number of studies that have been conducted. 

What The Data Says About Ashwagandha

According to Healthline, a study showed that those who took an ashwagandha supplement for 60 days had significant reductions in anxiety. Therefore, research has proven that ashwagandha may be helpful for treating stress and anxiety, not just curing the breakup you’re currently going through. 

How It Can Help Addicts

This could be a breakthrough in research when you consider how many people battle addiction yet can’t access prescription medication to treat their anxiety. According to SAMHSA, there are roughly 20 million people in the US living with a substance abuse disorder. A lot of these addictions begin with not knowing how to cope with stress and anxiety. 

If we take preventative measures and recognize that ashwagandha can reduce the levels of stress, imagine how many addictions can be prevented. 

Benefits Of Ashwagandha

Of course, first and foremost it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional and not take medical advice from TikTok. Aside from reducing stress levels, studies have also shown that the supplement has improved the quality of sleep and aided in muscle recovery, and some have stated it helped with fertility issues. 

The best part of ashwagandha is how easily accessible it is. Find it at your local grocery store or add it to your cart in your next Amazon haul. There are a couple of ways to consume the herb, in pill form or through tea. Whether you prefer to take it morning or night is totally a personal preference. Some have found that it aids in a good night’s rest while others find it gives them a boost of energy when taken in the morning. 

If you’re experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression, consult with a healthcare provider and discuss if alternative medicine is right for you. Your mental health is the top priority because if you can’t help yourself, how can you help others? 

Other Conditions Ashwagandha Can Treat:

  • Insomnia
  • Aging
  • Anxiety
  • Fertility
  • Muscle recovery
  • Mental health illnesses