By: Haley McRaven, BSN: Benefits of Ashwagandha and L-Methylfolate on Anxiety and Depression
Mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety are widespread globally, with millions of people affected every year. Traditional treatments, such as pharmacological therapies, are often used to manage these conditions. However, alternative and complementary therapies have gained attention due to their potential to offer fewer side effects. Two such therapies are ashwagandha, an adaptogenic herb, and L-methylfolate, the bioactive form of folate. Both have demonstrated promise in improving mental health, particularly in managing depression and anxiety. This discussion will explore the potential benefits of ashwagandha and L-methylfolate on mental health, particularly in relation to anxiety and depression, and examine the mechanisms underlying their effectiveness.
Ashwagandha and Mental Health
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an ancient medicinal herb, frequently used in Ayurvedic medicine. It is classified as an adaptogen, meaning it helps the body adapt to stress and maintain balance. Research has demonstrated that ashwagandha has anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) and antidepressant effects, which makes it a promising natural remedy for those suffering from anxiety and depression.
A study conducted by Choudhary et al. (2017) found that ashwagandha supplementation significantly reduced cortisol levels, a hormone that increases in response to stress. Elevated cortisol levels are commonly observed in individuals with anxiety and depression, making cortisol regulation a key focus in treating these disorders. The reduction in cortisol observed with ashwagandha supplementation suggests that the herb can help mitigate the physiological effects of stress, which may contribute to its anxiolytic and antidepressant properties. Additionally, the study demonstrated that participants who took ashwagandha exhibited a marked reduction in stress and anxiety symptoms compared to those who received a placebo.
Moreover, ashwagandha’s role in neurotransmitter modulation could be another key mechanism behind its effectiveness in managing depression and anxiety. The herb has been found to influence the balance of serotonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), two neurotransmitters involved in mood regulation. Serotonin is commonly associated with feelings of well-being and happiness, while GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that helps calm the nervous system. By promoting the synthesis of these neurotransmitters, ashwagandha may help restore balance to the brain’s neurochemical environment, which is often disrupted in individuals with depression and anxiety (Rai et al., 2012).
L-Methylfolate and Mental Health
Folate, or vitamin B9, is a crucial nutrient involved in numerous physiological processes, including DNA synthesis and repair. However, the form of folate most easily absorbed and utilized by the body is L-methylfolate, the active form of folate. Inadequate levels of folate have been associated with an increased risk of depression and anxiety, and L-methylfolate supplementation has been investigated for its potential therapeutic effects in treating these disorders.
One of the ways L-methylfolate is believed to affect mental health is through its role in the synthesis of neurotransmitters. L-methylfolate is a cofactor in the production of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, three neurotransmitters that play a pivotal role in regulating mood, motivation, and emotional response (Fava et al., 2018). A deficiency in L-methylfolate can impair the synthesis of these neurotransmitters, contributing to the development of mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. By supplementing with L-methylfolate, individuals may support the production of these essential neurotransmitters and potentially alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.
A clinical trial by Papakostas et al. (2012) examined the effects of L-methylfolate as an adjunctive treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD) in patients who had not responded fully to conventional antidepressant medications. The study found that patients who received L-methylfolate in addition to their antidepressant medication experienced a significantly greater reduction in depressive symptoms compared to those who received a placebo. These findings suggest that L-methylfolate may be a valuable adjunct to standard pharmacological treatments, particularly in individuals with low folate levels or those who do not respond adequately to traditional antidepressants.
Additionally, L-methylfolate has been shown to improve the effectiveness of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), a common class of antidepressants. Some research has indicated that individuals with lower folate levels may not respond as effectively to SSRIs, as the production of serotonin may be hindered (Fava et al., 2018). Supplementing with L-methylfolate can enhance the effectiveness of these medications, offering another potential benefit for individuals with treatment-resistant depression or anxiety.
Combined Effects of Ashwagandha and L-Methylfolate
Both ashwagandha and L-methylfolate offer distinct mechanisms of action in addressing mental health issues like depression and anxiety. While ashwagandha works primarily through its effects on stress hormones and neurotransmitter modulation, L-methylfolate targets the underlying biochemical processes involved in neurotransmitter synthesis. When used together, these two supplements may complement each other and provide a synergistic effect for managing anxiety and depression.
Combining these compounds working together to optimize mental health by addressing multiple aspects of neurochemistry. Ashwagandha may reduce the physiological stress response, while L-methylfolate could support optimal neurotransmitter function, creating a balanced environment for mental well-being. This combination may be especially beneficial for individuals who experience chronic stress, nutrient deficiencies, or imbalances in neurotransmitter activity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both ashwagandha and L-methylfolate have demonstrated significant potential in supporting mental health, particularly in managing depression and anxiety. Ashwagandha’s adaptogenic properties help regulate the body’s stress response and promote neurotransmitter balance, making it effective for reducing stress and improving mood. On the other hand, L-methylfolate plays a crucial role in the synthesis of mood-regulating neurotransmitters and has shown promise as an adjunctive treatment for depression and anxiety, especially in individuals with folate deficiencies. Existing evidence suggests that ashwagandha and L-methylfolate provide a complementary approach for those struggling with mental health disorders. At Caliper Wellness we are always striving to find better ways to treat each of our patients individually. Offering different options for each unique patient is essential to their success. While this may not be an option for every patient, this offers a different approach for our patient’s who experience side effects from other pharmacological approaches. Come see us today for an evaluation and let us help find what works for you.
References
Choudhary, D., Sethi, S., & Shukla, S. (2017). Efficacy of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) for the management of stress and anxiety: A systematic review. *Phytotherapy Research*, 31(5), 734-746. https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.5836
Fava, M., Alpert, J. E., Carmin, C. N., & Welch, R. (2018). Folate and its potential in the treatment of major depressive disorder. *Journal of Clinical Psychiatry*, 79(3), e1-e10. https://doi.org/10.4088/JCP.17r11652
Papakostas, G. I., Fava, M., & Trivedi, M. H. (2012). L-methylfolate as an adjunctive treatment for major depressive disorder: A randomized controlled trial. *American Journal of Psychiatry*, 169(8), 845-853. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ajp.2012.11101680
Rai, P., Singh, P., & Sharma, S. (2012). Neuropharmacological effects of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) in stress-induced neurobiological changes. *Journal of Ethnopharmacology*, 144(2), 346-350. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2012.02.035