How Long Does It Take For Ashwagandha To Work

How Long Does It Take For Ashwagandha To Work: Everything You Need To Know

If you’re looking for a natural remedy to combat stress, anxiety, and depression without the common side effects of prescription drugs, ashwagandha may be the solution.

Ashwagandha is an Indian plant used for centuries as a traditional medicine for the significant benefits it can provide to humans. Many people wonder “How long does it take for ashwagandha to work?” 

In this blog post, we will explore what scientific research says about this supplement and the effects it has on human health.

What is Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha is a plant that belongs to the nightshade family, and is also commonly used as an herb. It is an adaptogen that helps the body deal with stress.

Ashwagandha has been used in traditional Indian medicine for years to improve cognitive function and memory, boost energy levels, and reduce inflammation.

The active ingredients in Ashwagandha are called withanolides. These chemicals have been shown to have several benefits, such as slowing down the aging process and reducing stress. The herb is available in powder, capsule, and liquid extract form.

Based on clinical investigations, this herb does not have a standard dosage, but it depends on the problem being treated. Varying dosages have been utilized in different studies. According to these clinical studies, consuming 250–600 mg extract per day is enough to help you relax.

Ashwagandha capsule dosages typically range from 250 to 1,500 mg. Since high doses can have adverse effects in some circumstances, it is best to consult a healthcare practitioner before taking any herbal supplement of this kind.

Ashwagandha plant is also known as Indian Ginseng or Winter Cherry, but those who are sensitive should avoid using it as it can sometimes cause an allergic reaction. Ashwagandha is generally well tolerated by most people, but just like all supplements consult your doctor first before taking it.

How Long Does It Take For Ashwagandha To Work?

Before testing for efficacy, many ashwagandha clinical trials go for a minimum of 30 days. This is because herbal medicines, in general, take some time to kick in. You can observe some improvements with blood sugar and cortisol reduction within two weeks, but the herb’s full impact may not be seen for up to 60 days.

Overall, the effects of ashwagandha work with a range spanning from 7 to 90 days. Small differences in blood pressure, cortisol, and blood sugar are likely towards the lower end of the range. If your consumption of this herb is as a sleep aid, it might help you sleep better. 

If you consume ashwagandha first thing in the morning, you might feel less stressed during the day. Little reductions in stress levels make tiny irritations and daily pressures easier to overlook. This might not accomplish much the first few times you take the herb, but after a few weeks of constant use, you should see a noticeable difference.

The sleepiness side effect of the herb might be a useful sleep aid if taken in the evening, especially for patients with insomnia. It could have mild benefits in as little as a week, equivalent to a low dose of melatonin. However, you’ll have to wait one or two months before experiencing the full anti-anxiety properties of the herb.

Mood changes may take a few weeks to manifest, depending on the cause of your generalized anxiety disorder or sadness. Physiological changes like fertility, testosterone levels, and body fat levels might take a much longer time.

How Long Does It Take For Ashwagandha To Work

When Is The Best Time To Take Ashwagandha?

Generally, ashwagandha can be taken at any time of day or night. Whether you take it in the morning or evening will depend on your tolerance and physical health goals. 

In The Morning

When to take ashwagandha is primarily a matter of personal choice. According to a recent study, unlike many other medications and supplements, the advantages of Ashwagandha take time to manifest, from a few days to several weeks. 

Experimental research observed the behavior of 60 participants after taking 300 mg of ashwagandha every day. It was found that it took up to 10 weeks to see the full effects of the herb on their quality of sleep, in comparison to people that were in the control group. 

If you’re consuming ashwagandha for overall health, you might want to take it first thing in the morning, together with any other supplements and vitamins. Some people may experience slight stomach pain if they take ashwagandha on an empty stomach, so they may prefer consuming a small snack or breakfast beforehand.

At Night

If you’re looking for a way to relax before bedtime, try mixing ashwagandha powder with moon milk. If you have stomach discomfort after consuming ashwagandha, having it at night rather than in the morning could be a better alternative, particularly if you prefer to take it on an empty stomach. 

Overall, it is vital to pick a time when can be the most consistent with taking it, and when seems the most convenient for you.

What Are The Side Effects Of Ashwagandha?

While ashwagandha is commonly believed to be safe for most people, high doses might cause stomach distress, diarrhea, and vomiting in some people. 

It’s critical to follow the directions on the label and consult with your doctor before switching doses. Liver issues have been recorded in a few cases, though this could be related to other toxins common in unregulated supplements. Make sure you get your ashwagandha from a reputable supplement store. 

As for breastfeeding women, pregnant women, or people taking sedatives, immunosuppressants, antidepressants, or other drugs, you should talk to your doctor before trying ashwagandha.

What Are The Health Benefits Of Taking Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha has some health benefits to the human body, including the following:

1. Reducing Stress and Anxiety

Compared to the sedative and anxiety medication lorazepam, ashwagandha seems to have a soothing effect on anxiety and stress symptoms. According to a 2000 study on mice, the herb showed a similar anxiety-relieving impact to lorazepam, implying that ashwagandha could be just as effective. 

In a human-based study published in 2019, researchers discovered that consuming a daily dose of 240 milligrams (mg) of ashwagandha lowered stress levels considerably in comparison to a placebo. Decreased levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, was also observed among the results. 

Taking 250 mg or 600 mg of ashwagandha each day resulted in decreased stress levels and lower cortisol levels in humans, according to another 2019 exploratory study. Even though the findings are encouraging, further research is needed before the plant can be recommended as a treatment for anxiety in adults.

2. Treating Arthritis 

Ashwagandha may function as a pain reliever by inhibiting the transmission of pain signals through the central nervous system. It’s also possible that it has anti-inflammatory properties. 

Some studies have found it to be useful in treating rheumatoid arthritis and other types of arthritis. In a modest 2015 trial of 125 persons with joint pain, researchers concluded that the herb may offer promise as an alternative treatment for rheumatoid arthritis.

3. Contributing to Heart Health

Some individuals take ashwagandha to improve their cardiovascular health, particularly due to the following benefits associated with its use:

  • decreased cholesterol
  • lower blood pressure
  • relief from chest pain
  • protection from heart disease

Although there is little evidence to back up these claims, a 2015 study found that ashwagandha root extract may improve a human’s cardiorespiratory endurance, which may enhance heart health. Additional research, however, is required a draw any definitive conclusions.

4. Treating Alzheimer’s Disease

Multiple studies have looked into ashwagandha’s ability to minimize or prevent the loss of brain function in people with neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and Huntington’s disease, as per a 2011 review.

Regions of the brain and its connecting pathways become injured as these disorders worsen, resulting in memory and functional loss. The study showed that giving ashwagandha to rats and mice in the early stages of the disease may provide protection against these effects.

5. Anti-Cancer

Withaferin is a chemical found in ashwagandha which has been found to aid in the induction of apoptosis, or the programmed death of cancer cells, in animal and test-tube experiments. 

As far as mechanism is concerned, withaferin is thought to increase the development of reactive oxygen species (ROS) within cancer cells, causing them to malfunction. It can also make cancer cells more susceptible to apoptosis.  

In one study, mice with ovarian tumors were given withaferin alone or together with an anti-cancer medication. The result was that tumor development was reduced by 70–80%. The treatment also stopped cancer from spreading to other organs. Even though there is no evidence that there is equivalent effectiveness of ashwagandha on the human body, the existing research is promising.

6. Increasing Fertility in Men

Supplementing with ashwagandha may have a significant impact on testosterone levels and overall men’s reproductive health. 

In a study of 75 infertile males with sexual dysfunction, the group who took ashwagandha demonstrated enhanced sperm count and motility. 

The treatment resulted in a substantial rise in testosterone levels, increased muscle mass, and higher antioxidant quantities in their blood. 14% of the men’s partners were expecting a child after three months of treatment. 

Another study also showed that men who took ashwagandha for stress had higher antioxidant levels and higher sperm quality.

7. Boosting Brain Function

According to test-tube and animal research, ashwagandha can help with memory and brain function issues caused by external damage or disease. It enhances antioxidant activity, which safeguards nerve cells from damaging free radicals. 

In one study, ashwagandha treatment all but completely reversed spatial memory deficits in rats with epilepsy, most likely due to a decrease in oxidative stress. Even though ashwagandha has long been utilized in Ayurvedic medicine to improve memory, just a tiny amount of human research has been done in this area. 

An 8-week trial found that ingesting 300 mg of ashwagandha root extract twice daily increased physical performance, general memory, and attention in 50 individuals.

What to Look for When Choosing an Ashwagandha Supplement

When choosing an ashwagandha supplement, there are several factors you should consider to ensure you get the most out of your supplement investment:

  • Quality of ingredients – Some supplements are made with cheap, synthetic ingredients that may not be effective or safe. Look for a supplement that is made with organic ashwagandha and other high-quality ingredients.
  • GMO-free – Since ashwagandha is a natural, non-GMO plant source, it’s best to choose a supplement that does not include any GMO ingredients.
  • Organic – Many people prefer organic supplements and foods because they are safer and less likely to contain artificial additives or chemicals. Some manufacturers offer only the finest quality herbs and ingredients that are certified organic.
  • Third-party testing – When looking for an ashwagandha supplement, consider whether the manufacturer has had its products tested by a third party. This will help ensure the quality and safety of the product itself.
  • Labels – Not all supplements are created equal. Some manufacturers may list impressive-sounding ingredients on their labels, but the products may not be effective or safe. It’s important to do your research and read reviews before choosing a supplement.
  • Choose a reputable company – When choosing an ashwagandha supplement, make sure it is from a reputable company with a history of producing high-quality products.
  • Concentration – The amount of ashwagandha in a supplement can vary significantly from one product to another. Choose a supplement that contains a sufficient amount of this herb to be effective.

Ashwagandha Supplements

Here are some ashwagandha supplements you can take to boost your health condition: 

1. Organic Ashwagandha 2,100 mg Pure Organic Ashwagandha Powder and Root Extract

More than 3,000 years have passed since Ashwagandha was discovered. This ashwagandha extract is a one-of-a-kind supplement that maximizes outcomes while being pleasant on your stomach. It also includes black pepper extract to boost the potency, increasing ashwagandha’s absorption and effects.

The 100 vegan capsules break down quickly, have no gelatin, and are much more easily absorbed.  Because of its excellent stress-relieving effects, it is known as Indian ginseng. As an “adaptogen,” ashwagandha helps the human body deal with everyday stress. 

There are no stearate, fillers, preservatives, binders, or artificial components in this supplement. It is free of wheat, yeast, gluten, soy, dairy, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and rice concentrate. Each vegan capsule contains 100 percent pure ashwagandha root. They don’t add binders or fillers to this supplement, nor do they dilute it.

Ingredients:

  • Organic ashwagandha powder – 1050 mg
  • Ashwagandha root extract – 1050 mg
  • Black pepper extract – 8 mg

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2. Ashwagandha Made with Organic Ashwagandha Root Powder & Black Pepper

This strong adaptogenic herb has been found to naturally lower cortisol levels and manage daily stress. The pure ashwagandha capsules provide 1300 mg of ashwagandha with each serving and provide exceptional anti-stress support. 

You only require three capsules a day for total hormonal support, with black pepper for increased absorption. You’ll sleep more easily and wake up rejuvenated and ready to take on the day. 

Ashwagandha has been shown in studies to improve sleep quality and can aid you in falling asleep quicker for more restful sleep. It is also a natural thyroid supporter. 

Each bottle has a two-month supply. By regulating your hormones and handling everyday stresses, Ashwagandha has been clinically proven to lessen feelings of anxiety and despair. 

Stress impairs your immune system, but ashwagandha has been clinically proven to boost your natural defenses by increasing white blood cells and protective proteins.

This natural supplement is UDAF-certified, organic, and solely comprised of root extract for optimum efficacy and withanolide content. 

Ingredients:

  • Ashwagandha root – 1300 mg
  • Organic black pepper – 10 mg

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3. Ashwagandha KSM-66 by Fresh Healthcare 

The natural benefits of Ashwagandha are ideal for anyone suffering from stress or despair. This premium organic root powder can help you deal with stress more quickly and easily, while also keeping you relaxed, focused, optimistic, and at ease. 

This premium Ashwagandha gives you both sharpness and relaxation at the same time, so you’ll be in the ideal frame of mind to get things done. You will sleep much better and experience less stress, fatigue, and anxiety. 

Ashwagandha is an ayurvedic and herbal medicine that can help you stay relaxed and calm while also boosting your mood and energy. It’s also an adaptogen, which means it helps your body to regulate itself and keep its functions in check. 

These quality Ashwagandha botanicals also aid in the maintenance of good cholesterol levels and blood sugar levels, as well as the speeding up of recuperation. The size 00 capsules are vegetarian and vegan friendly, soft, and easy to take.

Ingredients:

  • Organic Ashwagandha – 1200mg
  • Flavor – Black Pepper

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4. Bronson Ashwagandha Extra Strength

Ashwagandha is classified as an adaptogenic herb since it supports the body’s ability to cope with and adapt to diverse stresses encountered in everyday life.

Bronson’s Ashwagandha contains 3000 milligrams of high-quality Ashwagandha herb with every dose (1-2 Ashwagandha tablets/ capsules). 

In its state-of-the-art laboratory in Hauppauge, New York, Bronson goods are in-house tested and meticulously made by qualified personnel. Ashwagandha Extra Strength 3000 mg has no animal-derived substances. It is vegetarian and vegan friendly. 

Ashwagandha Extra Strength helps the body maintain a healthy response to stress and cortisol levels while also enhancing mood and cognition. It also contains BioPerine which is a nutrient absorption enhancer that has been clinically proven. 

This supplement is Non-GMO, soy-free, and gluten-free, as validated by laboratory testing. 

Ingredients:

  • Ashwagandha herb powder – 300 mg
  • Black pepper seed extract – 5 mg

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5. Ashwagandha Supplement Made with Organic Ashwagandha Root Powder 

NutraHerbals is 100% pure Ashwagandha root powder. This supplement is free of harsh chemicals or harmful extract methods found in so many other supplements. In addition, it contains black pepper extract for improved absorption. 

This is among the most potent supplements on the market, with 1200 mg per serving. It is also free of GMOs, vegan-friendly, and contains no additives or fillers. The 120-capsule container is packed with withanolides and offers great value. 

Ashwagandha is a natural and Ayurvedic supplement that is still being investigated for novel applications. Each year, new studies addressing its possible impacts on the body are presented. This makes the herb very popular, with many including it in their daily supplement routine.

Ingredients:

  • Organic Ashwagandha root powder – 1200 mg
  • Organic black pepper extract – 5 mg

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Conclusion

The answer to this question is a bit complicated, but the short story is that it will take at least three weeks for ashwagandha to have a significant impact on your health. Ashwagandha supplements need time to work their way through your system in order for you to experience the desired results.

You should take ashwagandha regularly for about 3 to 4 months before you throw in the towel. If you’re still not feeling better after four months, there may be another reason why your body isn’t functioning properly and we recommend consulting with a professional healthcare provider who can help diagnose what might be going wrong.

References

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Choudhary, Bakhtiar et al. “Efficacy of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera [L.] Dunal) in improving cardiorespiratory endurance in healthy athletic adults.” Ayu vol. 36,1 (2015): 63-8. doi:10.4103/0974-8520.169002

Kakar SS, Ratajczak MZ, Powell KS, Moghadamfalahi M, Miller DM, Batra SK, Singh SK. “Withaferin alone and in combination with cisplatin suppresses growth and metastasis of ovarian cancer by targeting putative cancer stem cells.” PLoS One. 2014 Sep 29;9(9):e107596. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0107596. 

Kumar, Gajendra et al. “Efficacy & safety evaluation of Ayurvedic treatment (Ashwagandha powder & Sidh Makardhwaj) in rheumatoid arthritis patients: a pilot prospective study.” The Indian journal of medical research vol. 141,1 (2015): 100-6. doi:10.4103/0971-5916.154510

Langade, Deepak et al. “Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Extract in Insomnia and Anxiety: A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled Study.” Cureus vol. 11,9 e5797. 28 Sep. 2019, doi:10.7759/cureus.5797

Lopresti, Adrian L et al. “An investigation into the stress-relieving and pharmacological actions of an ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.” Medicine vol. 98,37 (2019): e17186. doi:10.1097/MD.0000000000017186

Mahdi AA, Shukla KK, Ahmad MK, Rajender S, Shankhwar SN, Singh V, Dalela D. “Withania somnifera Improves Semen Quality in Stress-Related Male Fertility.” Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2009 Sep 29;2011:576962. doi: 10.1093/ecam/nep138. Epub ahead of print. 

Salve, Jaysing et al. “Adaptogenic and Anxiolytic Effects of Ashwagandha Root Extract in Healthy Adults: A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled Clinical Study.” Cureus vol. 11,12 e6466. 25 Dec. 2019, doi:10.7759/cureus.6466

Singh, Narendra et al. “An overview on ashwagandha: a Rasayana (rejuvenator) of Ayurveda.” African journal of traditional, complementary, and alternative medicines : AJTCAM vol. 8,5 Suppl (2011): 208-13. doi:10.4314/ajtcam.v8i5S.9

Soman S, Korah PK, Jayanarayanan S, Mathew J, Paulose CS. “Oxidative stress induced NMDA receptor alteration leads to spatial memory deficits in temporal lobe epilepsy: ameliorative effects of Withania somnifera and Withanolide” A. Neurochem Res. 2012 Sep;37(9):1915-27. doi: 10.1007/s11064-012-0810-5. 

Verma N, Gupta SK, Tiwari S, Mishra AK.”Safety of Ashwagandha Root Extract: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study in Healthy Volunteers”. Complement Ther Med. 2021 Mar;57:102642. doi: 10.1016/j.ctim.2020.102642. Epub 2020 Dec 15. PMID: 33338583.

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