Adaptogens are those plants, which support your physiological response to stress and help you lower your stress level and improve sleep quality. Ashwagandha is one such adaptogen that has been used for ages for medicinal purposes. With mental health and stress management becoming popular, people are turning to such ayurvedic herbs that help them to improve their mental health. However, the time you take Ashwagandha is quite important, as it is prone to cause stomach issues if not taken at the right time.
There are many ashwagandha supplements available in the market in the form of powder, capsules and tablets. But what is the best time to take ashwagandha. In this blog we will understand how to take ashwagandha powder, capsules or tablets.
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an ancient medicinal herb widely used in Ayurvedic medicine. Known as Indian ginseng or winter cherry, it is valued for its adaptogenic properties, which help the body manage stress. Ashwagandha is also believed to offer various health benefits, including enhancing energy levels, improving cognitive function, boosting immunity, and reducing inflammation and anxiety. Its roots and leaves are typically used in supplements, powders, and extracts.
Ashwagandha is well-known for its adaptogenic properties, which help the body manage and adapt to stress. It can reduce cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress, thereby promoting a sense of calm and reducing anxiety (1).
Ashwagandha has been shown to enhance memory, attention, and cognitive functions. It may support brain health by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, which are linked to cognitive decline.
Supplementation with ashwagandha can improve physical performance, muscle strength, and recovery in athletes and active individuals. It may increase muscle mass and reduce body fat when combined with resistance training (2).
Ashwagandha may improve sleep quality by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. It is often used as a natural remedy for insomnia and other sleep disorders.
The herb is believed to boost the immune system by enhancing the body's defense mechanisms. It can increase white blood cell count and improve the function of immune cells, thereby supporting overall immune health.
Ashwagandha has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It helps combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation, which can contribute to various chronic diseases.
In women, ashwagandha may help balance hormones, alleviating symptoms of conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and menopause. In men, it can enhance testosterone levels and improve reproductive health.
Some studies suggest that ashwagandha can help lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, which is beneficial for managing diabetes and metabolic syndrome (3).
Ashwagandha may support heart health by reducing cholesterol and triglyceride levels, lowering blood pressure, and preventing oxidative damage to heart tissues.
Ashwagandha can support thyroid function by balancing hormone levels. It is particularly beneficial for individuals with hypothyroidism, helping to normalize thyroid hormone levels.
The herb may have antidepressant effects, potentially improving mood and overall mental well-being by regulating neurotransmitter levels in the brain.
The typical daily dose of ashwagandha ranges from 300 to 600 mg of extract, taken once or twice daily. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dosage recommendations.
The choice of time for taking ashwagandha would be dependent on factors like your goals and tolerance.
Studies have shown that taking Ashwagandha supplements won’t have an immediate effect on your body but in the long run, you will see positive results. Taking ashwagandha in the morning may seem to be best if you include it in your daily supplement routine and consuming it with other vitamin supplements. However, do not take it on an empty stomach as it may lead to stomach discomfort. Thus, if you are taking an ashwagandha supplement in the morning then take it after your breakfast.
If your goal is to get a deep and relaxed sleep with no stress or to boost vitality, then you must take Ashwagandha supplements before your bed to achieve your goal of good sleep or improved performance in bed. In addition, those who experience stomach discomfort by taking Ashwagandha in the morning may opt for taking it at night.
Ashwagandha is an adaptogen herb, which has many benefits including stress management, good sleep, and increased energy and vigor. The best time to take Ashwagandha is an individual choice and foremost priority should be given to the time you are most convenient to take Ashwagandha supplements consistently at that particular time of the day.
FAQs
1. Do I take ashwagandha in the morning or night?
Ashwagandha can be taken either in the morning or at night, depending on your preference and its effects on your body. Some prefer it in the evening to promote relaxation and sleep.
2. Can I take ashwagandha in an empty stomach?
It's generally safe to take ashwagandha on an empty stomach, but some individuals may experience mild stomach upset.
3. Does ashwagandha make you sleepy?
Ashwagandha's adaptogenic properties may promote relaxation and reduce anxiety, potentially aiding sleep.
4. Is it safe to take ashwagandha daily?
Taking ashwagandha daily is generally safe for most people when used as directed.
Health and Fitness
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