Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an adaptogenic herb known for helping the body cope with stress. Research is beginning to show how it works biochemically; by regulating stress hormones, calming the nervous system, and protecting cells from damage. In this post, we explain how ashwagandha reduces stress and anxiety and how it may complement regulated medicinal cannabis for some patients.
How Ashwagandha Regulates Stress
Ashwagandha helps balance the body’s main stress pathway, the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis. When we’re under stress, the adrenal glands release cortisol. If cortisol remains high for too long, it can lead to anxiety, fatigue, and sleep disruption. Ashwagandha helps normalise this response by reducing elevated cortisol levels and supporting healthy feedback within the HPA axis.
Clinical trials have found that people taking ashwagandha reported lower stress levels and had reduced cortisol in saliva samples. Active compounds like withaferin A may interact with cortisol receptors in the brain, helping to signal that the body can calm down. This makes ashwagandha a gentle support for rebalancing the stress system.
GABA and a Calmer Brain
Ashwagandha also works in the brain by enhancing the calming neurotransmitter GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). GABA helps reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Studies show that ashwagandha binds to GABAA receptors, mimicking or boosting GABA’s effects. This helps explain why people often feel calmer or sleep better while taking it.
Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Chronic stress increases inflammation and oxidative damage in the body. Ashwagandha has strong antioxidant properties that help neutralise stress-induced free radicals. Studies have shown that it can increase the body’s own antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, helping to protect brain cells and reduce long-term wear and tear.
Other Adaptogens
Ashwagandha is part of a wider group of herbs called adaptogens. These include Rhodiola, Schisandra, and Panax ginseng. Like ashwagandha, they help the body manage stress and improve resilience. Rhodiola, for instance, may support mental clarity under stress, while Schisandra has antioxidant effects. Each herb has a unique profile, and they may work well together under professional guidance.
Can Ashwagandha Complement Medicinal Cannabis?
Ashwagandha and medicinal cannabis (e.g. CBD) act on different systems. Ashwagandha modulates cortisol and GABA, while CBD interacts with serotonin and the endocannabinoid system. Some people find combining them helpful; for example, CBD may assist with anxiety and sleep, while ashwagandha improves stress tolerance and hormonal balance.
Both options should be used under medical supervision. If you’re prescribed medicinal cannabis and want to try ashwagandha, speak with your healthcare provider to ensure they’re compatible.
Final Thoughts
Ashwagandha supports stress recovery through three main actions: reducing cortisol, enhancing GABA activity, and protecting cells from oxidative damage. It’s a well-tolerated, natural option that can complement other treatments (including regulated medicinal cannabis) for people managing anxiety, fatigue, or stress. As always, consult a qualified provider before adding new supplements to your routine.
References
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Sprengel, M., Laskowski, R., & Jost, Z. (2025). Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) supplementation: a review of its mechanisms, health benefits, and role in sports performance. Nutrition & Metabolism, 22(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12986-025-00902-7
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Lopresti, A. L., Smith, S. J., Malvi, H., & Kodgule, R. (2019). An investigation into the stress-relieving and pharmacological actions of an ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract. Medicine, 98(37), e17186. https://doi.org/10.1097/md.000000000001718
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Candelario, M., Cuellar, E., Reyes-Ruiz, J. M., Darabedian, N., Feimeng, Z., Miledi, R., Russo-Neustadt, A., & Limon, A. (2015). Direct evidence for GABAergic activity of Withania somnifera on mammalian ionotropic GABAA and GABAρ receptors. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 171, 264–272. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2015.05.058
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Ferguson, S. (2023, August 31). The difference between ashwagandha and CBD. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/ashwagandha-vs-cbd
Disclaimer: Medicinal cannabis and CBD oil are unapproved medicines in NZ which means that there is no conclusive evidence for their effect, apart from Sativex. Many doctors do not routinely prescribe cannabis medicines. The above article was written for general educational purposes and does not intend to suggest that medicinal cannabis can be used to treat any health condition. Please consult with your healthcare provider.