- Ashwaganda
- Sources:- Ashwagandha, a potent adaptogen, is highlighted by for its diverse benefits on hormonal health and stress reduction. Key points include: - 
Hormonal Impact: Ashwagandha affects multiple hormones, notably reducing cortisol levels and indirectly increasing testosterone. This balance helps improve overall hormonal health and can support fertility and libido 1. 
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Stress and Anxiety Reduction: Known for its strong anxiolytic effects, ashwagandha significantly reduces cortisol, the stress hormone. Studies show a reduction in cortisol levels by 14.5% to 27.9% in stressed but otherwise healthy individuals 2. 
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Additional Health Benefits: Apart from hormonal regulation, ashwagandha lowers markers of poor cardiovascular health, improves heart rate, and enhances memory. It also aids in reducing symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and improves overall sleep quality 3. 
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Usage Recommendations: Ashwagandha should ideally be taken later in the day to manage cortisol effectively. Long-term high-dose usage is not recommended due to potential liver and thyroid issues. Cycling its use can optimize benefits and reduce risks 4. 
 - For more detailed guidance on dosages and personalized use, consulting a healthcare professional and reliable sources like examine.com is advised. RELATED QUESTIONS
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