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ASHWAGANDHA AND LUCID DREAMS: A POWERFUL CONNECTION

The phenomenon of lucid dreaming is very interesting in which the dreamer realizes that they are dreaming and can even control their actions within the dream. This different type of experience was widely been researched and a number of approaches have been developed to increase the chance of getting lucidity in dreams[^1^]. The supplement ashwagandha can be a potential help in this venture.

The traditional Ayurvedic medicine uses Ashwagandha, scientifically known as Withania somnifera, as one of the most popular adaptogenic herbs. It has been used for centuries to deal with stress, boost energy, and enhance general wellness. It has been extolled for its ability to stimulate lucid dreams. This article will delve into the relationship between ashwagandha and lucid dreams, looking at the science behind lucid dreaming, how ashwagandha works, and strategies for using ashwagandha to aid your lucid dreaming adventure.

THE SCIENCE OF LUCID DREAMING

The lucid dream occurs in the REM stage of sleep, which is distinguished by the elevated activity of the brain and the colorful dreams[^3^]. Even though the precise mechanisms of lucid dreaming are not well understood, it seems to involve a complex interplay between brain regions responsible for self-awareness, memory, and emotional regulation.[^4^]

Research suggests that certain factors can increase the likelihood of achieving lucidity in dreams, including:

  • Keeping a dream journal
  • Making reality checks daily
  • By the way of WBTB method
  • Practicing meditation and mindfulness[^5^]

Besides these methods, different substances have been researched as well for their possible effect on having lucid dreams. One such substance is ashwagandha.

HOW ASHWAGANDHA WORKS

Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb, which means it helps the body adapt to stress through modulation of stress response and promotion of overall balance[6]. The main active constituents in ashwagandha are withanolides that have been demonstrated to possess a wide range of biological effects including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties[^7^].

Several mechanisms may contribute to ashwagandha’s potential effects on lucid dreaming:

  1. Reducing stress and anxiety: Chronic stress and anxiety have a negative effect on sleep quality and can disturb REM sleep[^8^]. Ashwagandha has been demonstrated to lower cortisol levels, the main stress hormone, thereby ameliorating anxiety symptoms[^9^]. By decreasing stress and encouraging relaxation ashwagandha may develop better conditions for lucid dreaming.
  2. Supporting brain function: Ashwagandha has been shown to improve the cognitive function such as memory, attention and information processing[^10^]. Better cognitive activity will allow the brain to distinguish dreaming from reality and attain lucidity.

THE EFFECT OF ASHWAGANDHA ON LUCID DREAMS

While scientific research on this topic is still limited, some anecdotal reports suggest that ashwagandha could increase dream vividness and recall thus possibly leading to a higher chance of experiencing lucid dreams.[^11^] In addition, the stress-reducing and cognitive-enhancing effects of ashwagandha lead to an atmosphere that is better for lucid dreaming.

One should however bear in mind that individuals can respond differently to ashwagandha and lucid dreaming, and not all can enjoy the same benefits. Still more studies are required to evidence that ashwagandha supplementation is directly associated with lucid dreaming.

TIPS ON USING ASHWAGANDHA FOR LUCID DREAMING

If you’re interested in exploring the potential effects of ashwagandha on lucid dreaming, consider the following tips:

  1. Choose a high-quality supplement: Look for a reputable brand that utilizes standardized extracts with a specified percentage of withanolides to guarantee potency and uniformity.
  2. Follow the recommended dosage: Optimal dose of ashwagandha may differ from one person to another, also from product to product. Usually, doses range from 300 – 500 mg per day, with higher doses used for more severe symptoms [^12^]. Consult your doctor prior to starting any new supplement.
  3. Combine ashwagandha with other lucid dreaming techniques: Integrate ashwagandha into a holistic lucid dreaming practice which involves practices such as dream journaling, reality checks, and meditation.
  4. Monitor your experiences: Keep a record of your dreams and any fluctuations in their vividness or frequency, and of those possible side effects which you may experience while taking ashwagandha.

SAFETY AND SIDE EFFECTS

Ashwagandha is usually considered safe when taken as directed, with most of people facing few, if any, side effects. [^13^] However, some individuals may experience mild side effects, such as:

  • Gastrointestinal issues
  • Drowsiness or sedation
  • Headache

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have thyroid issues, or are taking medications, consult your healthcare professional before using ashwagandha[^14^].

CONCLUSION

Although scientific evidence linking ashwagandha to lucid dreaming is limited, its stress-free and cognitive enhancing qualities can create an appropriate environment for lucid dreaming. Noticing the ashwagandha by using it in a complete lucid dreaming practice and tracking your experiences you may see its performance in your dream exploration. When starting a new supplement, always consult with a healthcare professional and be careful of any side effects.

REFERENCES

  1. Stumbrys, T., Erlacher, D., & Schädlich, M. (2012). Induction of lucid dreams: A systematic review of evidence. Consciousness and Cognition, 21(3), 1456-1475. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1053810012000401
  2. Mishra, L. C., Singh, B. B., & Dagenais, S. (2000). Scientific basis for the therapeutic use of Withania somnifera (ashwagandha): a review. Alternative Medicine Review, 5(4), 334-346. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10956379/
  3. Hobson, J. A. (2009). REM sleep and dreaming: towards a theory of protoconsciousness. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 10(11), 803-813. https://www.nature.com/articles/nrn2716
  4. Voss, U., Holzmann, R., Tuin, I., & Hobson, J. A. (2009). Lucid dreaming: a state of consciousness with features of both waking and non-lucid dreaming. Sleep, 32(9), 1191-1200. https://academic.oup.com/sleep/article/32/9/1191/2454310
  5. Aspy, D. J., Delfabbro, P., Proeve, M., & Mohr, P. (2018). Reality testing and the mnemonic induction of lucid dreams: Findings from the national Australian lucid dream induction study. Dreaming, 28(3), 201-212. https://psycnet.apa.org/doi/10.1037/drm0000080
  6. Panossian, A., & Wikman, G. (2010). Effects of adaptogens on the central nervous system and the molecular mechanisms associated with their stress—protective activity. Pharmaceuticals, 3(1), 188-224. https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8247/3/1/188
  7. Singh, G., Sharma, P. K., Dudhe, R., & Singh, S. (2010). Biological activities of Withania somnifera. Annals of Biological Research, 1(3), 56-63. https://www.scholarsresearchlibrary.com/articles/biological-activities-of-withania-somnifera.pdf
  8. Baglioni, C., Spiegelhalder, K., Lombardo, C., & Riemann, D. (2010). Sleep and emotions: a focus on insomnia. Sleep Medicine Reviews, 14(4), 227-238. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1087079209000793
  9. Chandrasekhar, K., Kapoor, J., & Anishetty, S. (2012). A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of a high-concentration full-spectrum extract of ashwagandha root in reducing stress and anxiety in adults. Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine, 34(3), 255-262. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3573577/
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