Summary of "Ashwagandha" Antidepressant or Supplement? Huberman

00:00:00 - 00:05:00

Huberman discusses the anti-anxiety and antidepressant effects of Ashwagandha, an herb with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that stabilizes cortisol levels in the body. A 2012 study showed that taking 300 milligrams of ashwagandha twice a day led to significant reductions in cortisol levels and stress and anxiety in adults. Huberman suggests taking the herb in the early afternoon and evening in two doses of 250 to 300 milligrams for no more than a month and a half, alongside a healthy lifestyle. However, dosing varies and can range from 300-500 milligrams to 6 grams per day, with lower doses being more effective in some studies.

• 00:00:00 In this section, Huberman discusses a 2012 study which demonstrated the safety and efficacy of ashwagandha in reducing stress and anxiety in adults. The study found taking 300 milligrams of ashwagandha twice a day led to enormous reductions in cortisol levels, with highly significant statistical significance observed over day 15, 30, and 45. Huberman recommends taking ashwagandha in the early afternoon and evening in two doses of 250 to 300 milligrams, avoiding taking it prior to exercise, and not taking it for more than a month and a half. While ashwagandha is a powerful adaptogen, people should also eat nutritionally valuable foods and practice healthy behavioral habits. Huberman also touches on other supplement-based adaptogens such as lions mane mushroom and chaga, which can improve memory and creativity.
• 00:05:00 In this section, Huberman talks about the efficacy of Ashwagandha, an herb used as a supplement to reduce anxiety and depression symptoms. The herb has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, in addition to stabilizing cortisol levels in the body. However, the dosing seems to be somewhat variable, with some studies using high doses of up to 6 grams per day, whereas other studies have found lower doses of 300-500 milligrams per day to be effective. Huberman recommends starting at lower doses to see how one responds to the supplement and potentially increasing if needed.