Best Time to Take Ashwagandha: Full Breakdown

By Amber Smith
Sep 11, 2023 1:00 AMSep 11, 2023 10:53 AM
Elm and rye

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Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links to products. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. If you're looking to improve your overall health and well-being, ashwagandha may be a good supplement for you to consider. This herb has a variety of potential health benefits, but when is the best time to take it? In this article, we will discuss the best time to take ashwagandha and provide a full breakdown of its benefits.

Best Ashwagandha Supplements 

  1. Elm & Rye Ashwagandha Gummies

  2. Nourishvita Ashwagandha Extract Gummies

  3. Goli Ashwagandha Gummies

  4. Live Conscious Zenwell

  5. Bulletproof Stress Gummies

  6. Physician’s Choice KSM-66 Ashwagandha

  7. Xwerks Ashwa Gummies

Ashwagandha, also known as winter cherry or Withania somnifera, is a shrub in the Solanaceae family that grows in India, the Middle East, and parts of Africa. The genus Withania contains several species that are physiologically similar.

What is ashwagandha good for?

Ashwagandha is an ancient medicinal herb that has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine. Today, it is one of the most popular herbs in the world, and is commonly used as a natural remedy for anxiety, stress, and insomnia.

But what is the best time to take ashwagandha?

If you have trouble sleeping, some experts recommend taking ashwagandha root powder about an hour before bedtime. The sedative effects of the herb can help you relax and fall asleep more easily. If you want to take advantage of ashwagandha's immune-boosting benefits, however, it's best to take it in the morning. This will give your body the whole day to absorb and make use of the herb's nutrients.

No matter what time of day you take it, be sure to drink plenty of water when you take ashwagandha. The herb can cause digestive upset if taken without enough liquid. Start with a low dose of the herb and increase gradually over time to give your body a chance to adjust. You should also talk to your doctor before taking ashwagandha, especially if you have a medical condition or are taking any medications.

When taken as directed, ashwagandha is generally safe with few side effects. The most common ones include upset stomach, diarrhea, and headache. If you experience any of these side effects, stop taking the herb and talk to your doctor. Ashwagandha may not be suitable for everyone, so it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking it.

How should I take ashwagandha for best results?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best way to take ashwagandha may vary depending on your individual needs. If you are taking it for its sedative effects, for example, you may want to take it an hour before bedtime. 

If you are taking it for its immune-boosting benefits, on the other hand, it’s best to take it in the morning so that your body has all day to absorb and make use of its nutrients. No matter what time of day you take it, be sure to drink plenty of water when you take ashwagandha, as the herb can cause digestive upset if taken without enough liquid. 

Start with a low dose of the herb and increase gradually over time to give your body a chance to adjust. You should also talk to your doctor before taking ashwagandha, especially if you have a medical condition or are taking any medications.

What are the side effects of ashwagandha?

When taken as directed, ashwagandha is generally safe with few side effects. The most common ones include upset stomach, diarrhea, and headache. If you experience any of these side effects, stop taking the herb and talk to your doctor. 

Ashwagandha may not be suitable for everyone, so it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking it.

Who should take ashwagandha? 

There are many benefits to taking ashwagandha, but not everyone will benefit from it. If you're considering taking this herb, here's who should take it:

  • People with anxiety or stress disorders: Ashwagandha has been shown to be effective in treating both of these conditions.

  • People with chronic fatigue syndrome: Ashwagandha may help to improve energy levels and reduce fatigue.

  • People with low immune function: Ashwagandha can help to boost the immune system.

  • Elderly people: Ashwagandha may help to improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of dementia.

What does ashwagandha do for women?

Ashwagandha is an adaptogen. This means it helps the body to better deal with stressors, both mental and physical. For women in particular, ashwagandha can help to regulate cortisol levels, which can often become imbalanced due to stress.

Apart from assisting the body in adapting to stress, ashwagandha has several advantages for women, including hormone equilibrium and reproductive support. It also aids in the improvement of mood and cognitive function.

Can I take ashwagandha everyday?

You can technically take ashwagandha every day, but it's best to give your body a break from it every few days. This way, you can avoid potential side effects and ensure that you're getting the most out of the supplement. Ashwagandha is generally safe for most people, but if you do experience any side effects, it's best to stop taking it and speak with your doctor.

Can ashwagandha raise blood pressure?

Asheswagandha is an herbal remedy that helps to lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation and manage stress. It is important to know when to take ashwagandha so that you can get the most out of its benefits.

Can ashwagandha cause hair loss?

There's no definitive answer to this question since everyone reacts differently to supplements. That said, ashwagandha is not known to cause hair loss as a side effect. If you're concerned about losing hair while taking ashwagandha, speak to your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional.

Who cannot take ashwagandha?

There are a few groups of people who should avoid taking ashwagandha. This includes pregnant women, as there is not enough research to know whether it is safe for them. If you are breastfeeding, you should also avoid taking ashwagandha. 

People with autoimmune conditions such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis should also avoid taking ashwagandha, as it may worsen their symptoms. If you have any type of surgery planned, it's best to stop taking ashwagandha at least two weeks beforehand.

Ashwagandha can interact with some medications, so if you are taking any prescription or over-the-counter drugs, check with your doctor before taking ashwagandha.

How should you take ashwagandha?

If you're considering taking ashwagandha, it's important to know how to take it. The herb is available in many forms, including capsules, tablets, tinctures, and powders. It's also possible to get ashwagandha in tea form. The most common way to take the herb is in capsule form, but there are also ashwagandha gummies that have increased in popularity. 

When it comes to dosage, it's important to start with a lower dose and increase gradually as needed. It's also important to speak with your healthcare provider before taking ashwagandha, as they can help you determine the best dose for your individual needs.

How long does it take for ashwagandha to kick in?

Ashwagandha may take several weeks to work, according to current research. Maximum benefits related to stress and anxiety reduction may take ten or more weeks to achieve.

Mood improvements may be seen sooner, within two to four weeks. These effects are based on current research and individual response may vary. Some people may see benefits sooner or they may not experience any benefits at all. 

If you don't notice any changes after a few weeks of taking ashwagandha, you may want to try a different supplement or dosage. You may also want to talk to your doctor about other treatment options for stress and anxiety.

How do you know if ashwagandha is working?

The most important thing to know when trying any new supplement is how to tell if it's working. With ashwagandha, there are a few key things to look for. First, you should notice an improvement in your stress levels. If you're feeling more calm and relaxed, that's a good sign that the ashwagandha is working. 

You may also notice an improvement in your sleep quality. If you're sleeping better and feeling more rested, that's another sign that the ashwagandha is doing its job. Finally, you may notice an increase in energy levels and overall well-being. If you're feeling better all around, that's a great sign that ashwagandha is working for you.

If you're not sure if ashwagandha is working for you, try taking it at different times of day and see how you feel. Some people find that it works best when taken in the morning, while others find that it works better when taken in the evening.

Should you take a break from ashwagandha?

Just like with any supplement, it's important to take a break from ashwagandha every few months. This will help to prevent your body from becoming too reliant on the supplement and will also allow you to see if there are any negative side effects.

If you're taking ashwagandha and not seeing any results, it may be time to try a different supplement. There are many different options out there, so don't be afraid to experiment until you find something that works for you.

Now that you know more about the best time to take ashwagandha full breakdown, it’s time to elaborate on the top 7 brands we featured above in this article: 

1.     Elm & Rye Ashwagandha Gummies

Image courtesy Elm & Rye 

Ashwagandha is a green leafy plant that primarily grows in Asia and Africa.

Ashwagandha is made up of chemicals that may help ease the brain, reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and assist the immune system. Ashwagandha is traditionally used as an adaptogen and is often used for many conditions related to stress. Adaptogens are believed to help the body resist physical and mental stress.

2.     NourishVita Ashwagandha Extract Gummies

Image courtesy NourishVita 

The NourishVita Ashwagandha Extract Gummies include a high amount of ashwagandha root extract, which is excellent for treating depression and boosting your mood. Ashwagandha is an anti-inflammatory ingredient that lowers blood sugar and blood pressure levels in the body, as well as enhancing the immune system.

3.     Goli Ashwagandha Gummies

Image courtesy Goli 

Goliashwa KSM-66 is a high-quality, all-natural powdered extract made from the highest concentration and full-spectrum root extracts available. Goli Ashwa utilizes KSM-66, which has the greatest concentration of ingredients and comprehensive root extracts. Highlights of a holistic approach to overall health are displayed by Ashwa 60 Count Gummies.

4.     Live Conscious Zenwell

Image courtesy Live Conscious 

Ashwaghandi, we're here to help you on your wellness journey. It's as easy as two capsules a day to reach ZEN.

The blend of KSM-66® and AlphaWave® is an advanced formulation that combines clinically studied ashwagandha root extract with L-Theanine, a natural amino acid.

5.     Bulletproof Stress Gummies

Image courtesy Bulletproof

Sugar-free Stress Gummy Vitamin can help you navigate life's challenges. Ingredients like ashwagandha, L-theanine, and vitamin B6, which are supported by science, reduce stress and produce a good mood during periods of stress.

The taste of the Stress Gummies begins with a berry flavor and fades to a somewhat herbal note, thanks to the ashwagandha content of this science-backed dose.

6.     Physician’s Choice KSM-66 Ashwagandha

Image courtesy Physician’s Choice 

A natural way to find relief from stress, anxiety, and tension is with Physician’s Choice KSM-66 Ashwagandha. Easy-to-take capsules provide 500 mg of ashwagandha root extract per serving.

KSM-66 is a clinically studied dose of ashwagandha that has been shown to be effective in reducing stress and anxiety. KSM-66 is also known for its ability to improve cognitive function, energy levels, and sleep quality.

7.     Xwerks Ashwa Gummies

Image courtesy Xwerks

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) has been utilized as an herbal remedy to enhance the mind and body of its users for over 5,000 years.

Every day, we experience different types of stress, whether it be physical, mental, chemical or biological. Ashwagandha is an adaptogen - it helps the body cope with and adjust to stress so that we can return to a state of balance.

Our Criteria For Ranking The Best Ashwagandha Supplements

Ranking Ashwagandha supplements can be a useful guide for consumers looking to make informed decisions about their purchases. These rankings should consider various criteria to ensure that the supplements are safe, effective, and of high quality. Here are some criteria for ranking Ashwagandha supplements:

  • Purity and Authenticity:

    • Ashwagandha Content: Verify the presence and potency of Ashwagandha extract. It should match the label claim.

    • Adulterants: Check for the absence of contaminants, fillers, or other unwanted ingredients.

  • Quality of Ingredients:

    • Standardization: Assess whether the product uses a standardized Ashwagandha extract with a known concentration of active compounds, such as withanolides.

    • Organic Certification: Organic Ashwagandha may be preferred by some consumers due to reduced pesticide exposure.

  • Third-Party Testing:

    • Independent Verification: Look for supplements that have been tested by third-party laboratories for purity and quality. Certificates of analysis should be readily available.

  • Dosage and Potency:

    • Effective Dosage: Evaluate whether the supplement provides a clinically effective dosage of Ashwagandha, typically around 300-500mg of standardized extract per serving.

    • Potency: Consider the concentration of withanolides, which are the active compounds in Ashwagandha. A higher percentage of withanolides can indicate a more potent product.

  • Bioavailability:

    • Formulation: Examine the formulation to determine if it includes ingredients to enhance the bioavailability of Ashwagandha, such as black pepper extract (piperine).

  • Packaging and Shelf Life:

    • Quality of Packaging: Assess the packaging to ensure it protects the supplement from light, moisture, and air.

    • Expiration Date: Check for a clear expiration date to guarantee product freshness.

  • User Reviews and Ratings:

    • Customer Feedback: Read user reviews and ratings to gauge the real-world effectiveness and tolerability of the supplement.

  • Price per Serving:

    • Value for Money: Consider the cost per serving to assess whether the supplement offers good value relative to its quality and dosage.

  • Brand Reputation:

    • Manufacturer: Research the manufacturer's reputation for quality, transparency, and customer service.

    • Certifications: Look for products from companies that adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and have other relevant certifications.

  • Scientific Research:

    • Clinical Evidence: Evaluate whether the supplement's claims are backed by scientific studies and research on Ashwagandha's efficacy and safety.

  • Allergen Information:

    • Allergen Disclosure: Check for allergen warnings to ensure that the product is safe for individuals with allergies.

  • Ethical and Environmental Considerations:

    • Sustainability: Assess whether the manufacturer follows sustainable and ethical practices in sourcing and production.

Remember that individual preferences and health needs may vary, so it's essential for consumers to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if they have underlying health conditions or are taking medication. Additionally, these criteria should be used as a guide to make an informed choice, and the final ranking may depend on the relative importance of each criterion to the individual consumer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Ashwagandha Supplements

1. What is Ashwagandha?

  • Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an ancient medicinal herb known for its adaptogenic properties. It is used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine to support various aspects of health, including stress management and overall well-being.

2. What are Ashwagandha supplements?

  • Ashwagandha supplements are dietary supplements that contain extracts or powdered forms of the Ashwagandha plant. They are taken to provide the potential health benefits associated with Ashwagandha.

3. What are the potential benefits of Ashwagandha supplements?

  • Ashwagandha supplements are believed to offer several potential benefits, including stress reduction, improved sleep, enhanced cognitive function, and immune system support. Some studies suggest it may also help with anxiety and hormonal balance.

4. How should I take Ashwagandha supplements?

  • The dosage can vary depending on the specific product and your health goals. Typically, a standard dose ranges from 300 to 500 mg of standardized Ashwagandha extract per serving. Follow the instructions on the product label or consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

5. Are there any side effects of Ashwagandha supplements?

  • Ashwagandha is generally considered safe when used as directed. However, some individuals may experience mild side effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort, dizziness, or allergic reactions. Consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns or experience adverse effects.

6. Can I take Ashwagandha supplements with other medications or supplements?

  • It's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before adding Ashwagandha supplements to your regimen, especially if you're taking prescription medications or other supplements. There can be potential interactions, so professional guidance is essential.

7. Are Ashwagandha supplements suitable for everyone?

  • While Ashwagandha is generally safe for most people, it may not be suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women, individuals with autoimmune diseases, or those with certain medical conditions. Consult with a healthcare provider to determine if it's appropriate for you.

8. How long does it take to see results from Ashwagandha supplements?

  • The time it takes to experience the benefits of Ashwagandha can vary from person to person. Some individuals may notice improvements in a few weeks, while others may require more extended use. Consistency in taking the supplement is key.

9. Can Ashwagandha supplements help with anxiety and stress?

  • Some studies suggest that Ashwagandha may have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) properties and can help manage stress. However, individual responses can vary, and it should not be used as a sole treatment for anxiety disorders. Consult a healthcare professional for appropriate guidance.

Remember that Ashwagandha supplements are not a substitute for a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. It's essential to make informed choices and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice regarding supplementation.

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