Ashwagandha (shortened) is used in Ayurvedic medicine for epilepsy, syncope and psychosis. In my functional nutrition practice, ashwagandha is recommended to many of my adult clients that experience adrenal stress, hormonal imbalances, among other dysfunctions. Ashwagandha works as an anti-depressant by enhancing 5-ht (the precursor to seretonin) transmission. It serves as an antioxidant and supports acetylcholine (a neurotransmitter responsible for focus, cognition, attentiveness, memory). Flax seed oil promotes omega-3’s fatty acid transmission of chemical messengers that support nerve cells. Flax seed oil is far more potent than flax seeds and is rich in ALA which converts to DHA and EPA, both critically essential for optimal brain function.
In the research titled “Protective role of Ashwagandharishta and flax seed oil against maximal electroshock induced seizures in albino rats” there were six control groups used. The first was administered water, the second was given milk, the third group was given ashwagandha, the fourth group was given flax seed oil and milk, the fifth cohort received flax seed oil and ashwagandha and the six group received Phenytoin (also referred to as Dilantin).
The results found:
- Flaxseed oil prior to the onset of seizures, offered significant anti-convulsant activity (reduced tonic phase, shortened clonic phase and improved recovery).
- Flaxseed oil and ashwagandha combined offered a reduction in the clonic phase and improved recovery.
Both the drugs (ashwagandha and flaxseed oil) exhibited an excellent anti-post-ictal depression effect and complete protection against mortality.
Both of these results indicate that flaxseed oil and ashwagandha do have anti-convulsant activities and are supportive in strengthening nerve conductivity, neurotransmission and neuroplasticity; all critical in repair and improving brain function. Although the research demonstrates that they didn’t prevent the seizures, flaxseed oil and ashwagandha may be excellent adjunctive nutritional supports.
Bringing much light,
Lynn
