2 MIN READ | GEORGIA SMITH
When Should You Take Ashwagandha?
Healthy living is about more than what you take into your body. When you take it also matters. The right dosage at the right time can make all the difference. But dosage timing can be hard to figure out. Herbs like Ashwagandha have been around so long and have so many uses that dosage timing gets confusing.
So when should you take Ashwagandha? In the morning or at night?
Yes. Both morning and nighttime doses can help maintain balance in your body. Sorry, that didn’t really explain much, did it? Let’s break this down.
WHAT IS ASHWAGANDHA?
Ashwagandha is a small evergreen shrub found in India and North America. The roots and berries are commonly used in the Ayurvedic tradition of natural medicine in India as a relaxing tonic. In short, Ashwagandha is an adaptogen.
You might hear it called Indian Winter Cherry because of its bright red berries. Because its effects can be similar to ginseng, it is sometimes called Indian Ginseng.
The benefits of Ashwagandha have been explored and debated for hundreds of years. Recently, modern science has begun to take an interest in this versatile adaptogen. Studies suggest that Ashwagandha may support stamina, reduce stress, and enhance cognition. Some have linked it to anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, and other positive benefits.
WHEN TO TAKE ASHWAGANDHA FOR STRESS
Stress can disrupt almost every part of your life. You might sleep poorly, struggle to focus, and get sick more easily. It’s almost impossible to manage your wellness without getting stress under control. Fortunately, adaptogens like ashwagandha may help.
If you’re taking ashwagandha as part of your stress management routine, you should aim for two doses per day. As an adaptogen, Ashwagandha may help regulate your stress response. Of course, stress-inducing situations can pop up anytime, so consistent dosing is a must. Try to take it twice daily after eating, perhaps after breakfast and after dinner, as ashwagandha will not make you sleepy and it is fine to take at any time of day, morning, noon, or night.
WHAT ABOUT ASHWAGANDHA FOR SLEEP?
You’re probably not surprised that an herb people take for stress management may also help with sleep. Some studies have shown that Ashwagandha improves sleep quality. Knowing that, you might think it makes sense to take ashwagandha at night. And you’d be right — but you can take it at any time of day, because ashwagandha will not make you sleepy (though it will help you manage stress).
But when is the best time of day to take ashwagandha? To see the best results, most research recommends also taking Ashwagandha in the morning. Taking it twice a day can help your body maintain equilibrium in your adrenal system.
HOW TO TAKE ASHWAGANDHA
You can buy ashwagandha in capsule form or as a powder to mix with coffee or tea. The problem is, ashwagandha powder does not dissolve completely. Skip the grit by taking ashwagandha in the form of Zolt Dreamy tea drink mix, which contains 250mg of KSM-66 ashwagandha. This tea delivers your nighttime dose of ashwagandha plus other wellness-enhancing ingredients. It combines the soothing flavors of lemon, honey, and orange, with antioxidants and CBD isolate to help you rest, repair, and reboot.
SIDE EFFECTS OF ASHWAGANDHA
Ashwagandha does not cause sleepiness, though it is sleep-supporting because it has been shown to reduce stress and support emotional balance.
At normal daily doses of between 250mg to 600mg and even up to 1200mg, ashwagandha is not known to have any negative side effects. At very high doses, ashwagandha has been shown to cause intestinal discomfort, diarrhea, and nausea.
As with any supplement, it is best to consult your physician before starting any new regimen.
MORE FROM THE JOURNAL
