When to Take Ashwagandha Supplement: A Guide to Optimal Timing

By Last Updated: May 8th, 20238.4 min readViews: 1243

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Ashwagandha is a popular adaptogenic herb that has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to improve overall health and well-being. It is known for its ability to reduce stress, anxiety, and inflammation, and to enhance cognitive function and physical performance. However, many people are unsure about when to take ashwagandha supplement to maximize its benefits.

In general, ashwagandha can be taken any time of day or night, depending on your individual needs and preferences. Some people prefer to take it in the morning to help them feel energized and focused throughout the day, while others prefer to take it at night to help them relax and sleep better. The timing of your ashwagandha supplement may also depend on the specific health benefits you are seeking.

When To Take Ashwagandha Supplement:

Ashwagandha supplement can be taken at any time of the day or night, depending on personal preference. Some people find it more effective when taken in the evening before bed or in the morning for a calm and focused start to the day.

What is Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha is a popular herb in Ayurvedic medicine, which is a traditional system of healing that originated in India. It is also known as Withania somnifera or Indian ginseng. The name ashwagandha comes from the Sanskrit language and means “smell of horse,” which refers to its unique smell and the belief that consuming it can give you the strength and vitality of a horse.

History

Ashwagandha has been used for over 3,000 years in Ayurvedic medicine to treat a variety of conditions, including stress, anxiety, insomnia, and fatigue. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties. In recent years, ashwagandha has gained popularity in the Western world as a natural supplement for stress and anxiety.

Benefits

Research has shown that ashwagandha may offer several health benefits, including:

  • Reducing stress and anxiety: Ashwagandha is believed to help regulate cortisol, a hormone that is released in response to stress. Studies have shown that ashwagandha can reduce cortisol levels and improve symptoms of stress and anxiety.
  • Improving brain function: Ashwagandha may help improve cognitive function, memory, and reaction time. It is also believed to have neuroprotective properties, which may help prevent or slow down the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.
  • Boosting immune function: Ashwagandha may help improve immune function by increasing the production of white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting off infections and diseases.
  • Reducing inflammation: Ashwagandha contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation throughout the body.
  • Improving sleep: Ashwagandha may help improve sleep quality and duration, particularly in people with insomnia or other sleep disorders.

Overall, ashwagandha is a versatile herb that may offer several health benefits. However, more research is needed to fully understand its effects and potential side effects. As with any supplement, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking ashwagandha, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking any medications.

When to Take Ashwagandha Supplement?

Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to promote overall health and wellness. It is known for its ability to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as improve brain function, sleep quality, and physical performance. However, the timing of when you take ashwagandha can affect its effectiveness. In this section, we will discuss the factors to consider when taking ashwagandha, the dosage and timing, and the best time to take ashwagandha.

Factors to Consider

Before taking ashwagandha, it is important to consider your individual needs and goals. For instance, if you are taking ashwagandha to reduce stress and anxiety, you may want to take it in the morning to help you feel more relaxed throughout the day. On the other hand, if you are taking ashwagandha to improve sleep quality, you may want to take it in the evening to help you unwind before bed.

Dosage and Timing

The dosage and timing of ashwagandha can also affect its effectiveness. Most studies have used doses ranging from 125 to 1,250 mg per day, with the most common dose being 600 mg per day. It is generally recommended to take ashwagandha with food to improve absorption and reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.

Best Time to Take Ashwagandha

The best time to take ashwagandha depends on your individual needs and goals. In general, you can take ashwagandha any time of day or night. However, here are some recommendations based on the most common uses of ashwagandha:

  • To reduce stress and anxiety: Take ashwagandha in the morning or early afternoon to help you feel more relaxed throughout the day.
  • To improve sleep quality: Take ashwagandha in the evening, about an hour before bed, to help you unwind and fall asleep faster.
  • To improve physical performance: Take ashwagandha about an hour before exercise to help improve endurance, strength, and muscle recovery.

It is important to note that ashwagandha may take several weeks to start working, so it is important to be patient and consistent with your dosing and timing. Additionally, it is always best to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking any medications.

Overall, ashwagandha is a safe and effective supplement that can help improve overall health and wellness. By considering the factors discussed above, you can determine the best time to take ashwagandha to achieve your individual goals and needs.

How to Take Ashwagandha Supplement?

Ashwagandha is a popular adaptogenic herb that has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine. It is known for its ability to help the body manage stress and anxiety, improve cognitive function, and support overall health. However, with so many forms and dosages available, it can be confusing to know how to take ashwagandha supplement. In this section, we will discuss the different forms of ashwagandha and how to choose the right supplement.

Forms of Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is available in various forms such as capsules, powders, tinctures, and teas. The most common forms are capsules and powders. Capsules are easy to take and are convenient for those who are always on the go. Powders, on the other hand, can be mixed into drinks or smoothies and are a great option for those who prefer a more natural approach.

How to Choose the Right Supplement

When choosing an ashwagandha supplement, it is important to look for a high-quality product that is free from contaminants and has been third-party tested. Here are some factors to consider when choosing an ashwagandha supplement:

  • Dosage: The dosage of ashwagandha varies depending on the form and the manufacturer. It is recommended to start with a low dosage and gradually increase it over time. The recommended dosage for most people is 500 mg to 1,000 mg per day.
  • Concentration: Look for a supplement that contains a high concentration of withanolides, which are the active compounds in ashwagandha. A concentration of 5% to 10% is ideal.
  • Ingredients: Check the label for other ingredients added to the supplement. Avoid supplements that contain fillers, binders, or artificial colors and flavors.
  • Brand reputation: Choose a reputable brand that has good customer reviews and has been in the market for a while.

In conclusion, ashwagandha is a powerful adaptogenic herb that can provide numerous health benefits. When taking ashwagandha supplement, it is important to choose a high-quality product and follow the recommended dosage. As always, consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

Possible Side Effects of Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is a herbal supplement that is commonly used for its potential health benefits. While it is generally considered safe, there are some possible side effects that you should be aware of before taking it.

Gastrointestinal upset

Taking ashwagandha in large amounts may cause gastrointestinal upset, including diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. This may be due to irritation of the intestinal mucosa. If you experience these symptoms, it is recommended that you stop taking ashwagandha and consult your healthcare provider.

Allergic reactions

Some people may be allergic to ashwagandha, which can cause symptoms such as itching, hives, and swelling. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop taking ashwagandha and seek medical attention immediately.

Interactions with medications

Ashwagandha may interact with certain medications, including sedatives, thyroid hormone, and immunosuppressants. If you are taking any medications, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking ashwagandha to avoid any potential interactions.

Other possible side effects

In rare cases, ashwagandha may cause other side effects, such as:

  • Excitability
  • Hallucinations
  • Vertigo
  • Nasal congestion
  • Cough
  • Decreased appetite
  • Constipation
  • Dry mouth
  • Hyperactivity
  • Nighttime cramps
  • Blurred vision
  • Rash

If you experience any of these side effects, stop taking ashwagandha and consult your healthcare provider.

Conclusion

Overall, ashwagandha is considered safe for most people when taken in recommended doses. However, it is important to be aware of the possible side effects and to talk to your healthcare provider before taking ashwagandha if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking any medications.

Conclusion

Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine. It has many potential health benefits, including reducing stress and anxiety, improving sleep, and boosting cognitive function. If you are considering taking an ashwagandha supplement, it is important to understand the best time to take it.

Based on the available research and expert opinions, taking ashwagandha in the morning is generally recommended. This is because it can help provide energy and focus throughout the day, while also reducing stress levels. However, if you find that ashwagandha makes you drowsy, you may want to take it at night instead.

It is also important to note that the optimal dosage of ashwagandha can vary depending on the individual and their specific health needs. It is recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase it over time to avoid any potential side effects.

Overall, ashwagandha can be a beneficial supplement for many people, but it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting to take it. They can help determine the best dosage and timing for your specific needs, as well as identify any potential interactions with other medications or supplements you may be taking.

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