In the realm of natural remedies, few herbs have garnered as much attention as ashwagandha. It has been hailed for its potential to promote overall well-being and balance.
But, like with many things in life, timing is crucial when it comes to maximising the effectiveness of this adaptogenic marvel.
So when is the best time to take ashwagandha? Should you take it in the morning or at night?
Join us as we delve into the topic of when to take ashwagandha, including:
- What is the best time to take ashwagandha
- Is it good to take ashwagandha before bed
- How long does it take ashwagandha to work
In this guide:
What is the best time to take Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha is an herb that has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. And of the most common questions people have concerning it is regarding the appropriate time to take ashwagandha.
According to research, the best time to take ashwagandha is in the morning or early afternoon. This is because ashwagandha has mild stimulatory effects, and taking it in the evening or at night may interfere with your ability to sleep.
Additionally, ashwagandha has been shown to increase energy levels and improve cognitive function, making it beneficial during the daytime when you need to be alert and focused.
A study published in the Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine found that taking ashwagandha in the morning resulted in better sleep quality compared to taking it in the evening. The study also found that participants who took ashwagandha in the morning reported improved mental alertness and cognitive function during the day.
However, it is important to note that ashwagandha may have different effects on different individuals. Some people may feel more energised after taking it, while others may feel more relaxed.
Therefore, it is recommended to experiment with different times of day to see what works best for you.
Is it good to take Ashwagandha before bed?
While most experts recommend taking ashwagandha in the morning or early afternoon, some still question whether consuming it before bed holds any benefits.
As we mentioned earlier, there is evidence that suggests that taking ashwagandha before bed may not be suitable for everyone, primarily due to the stimulatory effects of Ashwagandha that can potentially disrupt sleep patterns.
Additionally, some people may experience mild digestive discomfort or nausea when taking ashwagandha, further impacting their ability to sleep.
However, one study published in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine found that taking ashwagandha before bed resulted in improved sleep quality in a small group of participants with insomnia. But this study had a small sample size, and further research is needed to determine if these results are generalisable to the wider population.
Overall, the available evidence suggests that taking ashwagandha before bed may not be the best option for everyone. So, if you are sensitive to stimulants or have a history of digestive discomfort, avoid consuming ashwagandha before bed.
However, if you have insomnia or other sleep disturbances, taking ashwagandha before bed may be worthwhile to see if it improves your sleep quality.
Can you take Ashwagandha in the morning?
Yes, you can take Ashwagandha in the morning, and it is a popular choice among people seeking an energised and focused start to their day.
Consuming ashwagandha in the morning offers several benefits that make it an attractive option for those aiming to enhance their energy levels and mental clarity throughout the day.
This is because Ashwagandha has been shown to have a balancing effect on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which is responsible for regulating the body’s stress response. When this axis is out of balance, it can lead to fatigue, brain fog, and other symptoms of chronic stress.
By taking Ashwagandha in the morning, you may be able to support a healthy stress response and promote better cognitive function and focus throughout the day.
Additionally, research suggests that taking Ashwagandha in the morning may be more effective for improving sleep quality at night, further enhancing energy levels and mental clarity during the day.
How long does Ashwagandha take to work?
The time it takes for Ashwagandha to work can vary depending on a few different factors, including your age, health status, and the dosage and form of Ashwagandha being used.
Generally, it can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to experience the full effects of Ashwagandha.
Here are some factors that can influence how long it takes for Ashwagandha to work:
- Dosage and form of Ashwagandha
Different forms of Ashwagandha, such as capsules, powders, and tinctures, may have different absorption rates and bioavailability. In general, higher doses of Ashwagandha may produce faster and more noticeable effects. - Health status
Individuals who are generally healthy may notice the effects of Ashwagandha more quickly than those who have underlying health conditions. People who are experiencing chronic stress, anxiety, or insomnia may also notice the effects of Ashwagandha more quickly than those who are not. - Age
As people age, their bodies may take longer to respond to certain herbs and supplements. This means that older individuals may need to take Ashwagandha for a longer period of time before noticing its effects. - Lifestyle factors
Lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and sleep habits can also influence how quickly Ashwagandha works. People who have a healthy lifestyle may notice the effects of Ashwagandha more quickly than those who do not.
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Final words on when to take Ashwagandha
While ashwagandha may have different effects on different individuals, taking it in the morning may help boost energy levels and mental clarity and support a healthy stress response throughout the day.
The time it takes for ashwagandha to work can vary depending on different factors such as age, health status, dosage, and form of ashwagandha. In general, it can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to experience the full effects of ashwagandha.
It’s important to experiment with different times of day and doses to find what works best for you.
Frequently asked questions:
Is it better to take Ashwagandha in the morning or at night?
It is generally recommended to take ashwagandha in the morning to support energy and focus throughout the day.
Does Ashwagandha make you sleepy?
Ashwagandha is often used to promote relaxation and reduce stress, which can potentially lead to feelings of drowsiness or sleepiness in some individuals.
