Re: Ashwagandha and other adaptogens

Thank you for the reply.

"The decrease in cortisol noted in humans has reached 14.5-27.9% in otherwise healthy but stressed humans..

I had heard similar information previously.

During busy stressful days at work I get amped up and somewhat hyperactive according to trusted coworkers. I assume high cortisol is involved.

However later in the evening on such days and much of the PM hours on peaceful days off I struggle to be productive. I fit the description of inattentive ADD and "catecholamine depression." I wonder if lower cortisol is involved or just lower amounts of Cats (adrenal medulla hormones).

I take 10mg x2 pregnenolone plus some whole adrenal glandular on stressful days, less on relaxing days. These seem to mostly eliminate the need for a Coke in the afternoon as a pick me up.

I have taken other Cat support supplements with some good results for over a decade.

I take 6mg DHEA twice per week. The combo feels nice.

Followup hormone tests--preg, dhea, T, E were all in the center third of the normal range, rather surprising for a guy in his early 50s with long history of below average health. That was due in large part to heavy metal problem--mostly lead and cadmium--that has mostly been resolved with chelation--Cutler protocol.

Thyroid tests, including TSH, Free T4, T3 have always been normal but not ideal. I've had less lethargy and have felt warmer with the supplement Thyroid Helper for over 10 years. It includes selenium that I respond well to, ashwaganda and other supplements. I just don't know how much of the response is due to Ash.

So I'm left wondering if Ash. in the AM and noon would lower my cortisol leaving me lacking later in the afternoon and evening.

I'd be grateful for your thoughts.

Joe