Ashwagandha is an ancient herb used for centuries due to its impressive health benefits, including stress reduction, improved energy levels, and enhanced cognitive function. Nowadays, many people are exploring natural remedies such as ashwagandha, turmeric, chamomile, and others, and are even interested in how to make weed oil, as the issue of relaxation and wellness in the modern world is more relevant than ever.
But when it comes to the best time of day to take ashwagandha, many people are unsure of the ideal timing. The effectiveness of ashwagandha can vary depending on the time of day you consume it In this guide, we’ll explore when and how to take ashwagandha for maximum results, whether you are taking it before bed or in the morning.
Best Time of Day to Take Ashwagandha
The best time of day to take ashwagandha can depend on your specific health goals. Some individuals may benefit from taking ashwagandha in the morning to boost energy and focus, while others might find it more effective when taken before bed to promote relaxation and sleep. Let’s break down the timing options and their potential benefits:
Ashwagandha in the Morning
If you’re looking to start your day with energy and reduce stress, taking ashwagandha in the morning can be an excellent choice. As an adaptogen, ashwagandha helps regulate cortisol levels, the body’s primary stress hormone. By taking it in the morning, you can set the tone for a calm and focused day.
For maximum effect: Take ashwagandha with breakfast or shortly after waking up, ideally paired with a healthy fat source like avocado or nuts to enhance absorption. If you’re sensitive to energy boosts, start with a small dose and adjust as necessary.
Ashwagandha Before Bed
On the other hand, taking ashwagandha before bed is often recommended for its ability to help promote relaxation and better sleep. Ashwagandha helps reduce cortisol levels, which is particularly useful in the evening when you’re winding down after a long day. Additionally, ashwagandha’s calming properties can contribute to improving the quality of sleep by reducing anxiety and stress.
For maximum effect: Drink ashwagandha before bed in the form of a calming tea or capsule about 30-60 minutes before your bedtime. This timing allows the herb to work alongside your body’s natural circadian rhythms, helping to promote a deep and restful sleep.
Ashwagandha Morning or Night: Which is Best?
Both timing options offer distinct benefits. The most effective time to take ashwagandha can vary from person to person based on lifestyle and the specific results they’re seeking. If you’re not sure which is best for you, consider experimenting with both and monitoring how your body responds.
Why Take Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It is known for its adaptogenic properties, which means it helps the body adapt to stress and maintain balance. Some of the key benefits of ashwagandha include:
- Stress Reduction: Ashwagandha can help lower cortisol levels, helping to manage stress more effectively.
- Improved Sleep: By reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation, ashwagandha may improve sleep quality, especially when taken before bed.
- Boosted Energy Levels: For those feeling fatigued or overwhelmed, ashwagandha in the morning can offer a natural energy boost, without the jittery side effects of caffeine.
- Enhanced Cognitive Function: Ashwagandha may support brain health, improving memory and concentration.
How to Take Ashwagandha (Ways to Consume)
There are several ways to consume ashwagandha, each with its advantages. Understanding how to take ashwagandha can help you determine which form is best for your needs.
- Capsules/Tablets: These are convenient and easy to take, especially for those who don’t like the taste of the powder.
- Powder: Ashwagandha powder can be mixed into smoothies, teas, or warm milk (often known as “ashwagandha latte”). This form allows for more flexibility in dosage.
- Tea: Drinking ashwagandha in tea form is an excellent choice before bedtime, as it can help promote relaxation.
What is the Best Form of Ashwagandha to Take?
All forms are effective and fulfill their purpose. The best form of ashwagandha to take depends on personal preference.
Risks and Side Effects of Ashwagandha
While ashwagandha is generally considered safe for most people, there are some potential risks and side effects to be aware of:
- Gastrointestinal Issues: nausea, diarrhea, or an upset stomach, especially when taking high doses or on an empty stomach.
- Drowsiness: Ashwagandha has calming effects, which can make some people feel sleepy or fatigued, particularly when taken in large doses or at night.
- Hormonal Effects: Ashwagandha may have mild estrogenic effects.
- Thyroid Function: While ashwagandha may help support thyroid function in some people, it could potentially interfere with thyroid medication or cause problems in individuals with hyperthyroidism.
- Blood Pressure: Ashwagandha may lower blood pressure.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: There is limited research on the safety of ashwagandha during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so it is generally advised to avoid it during these periods unless approved by a doctor.
Is Ashwagandha Safe for the Liver and Kidneys?
Ashwagandha is generally considered safe for most people and does not pose a significant risk to the liver or kidneys when taken in appropriate doses. However, individuals with pre-existing liver or kidney conditions should consult a healthcare provider before using ashwagandha to ensure it will not interfere with their condition or medications.
Ashwagandha Interactions
Ashwagandha can interact with various substances, either enhancing or suppressing their effects:
- Sedative Medications: Ashwagandha has calming properties and may enhance the effects of sedatives or sleep aids, potentially causing excessive drowsiness.
- Thyroid Medications: Ashwagandha may enhance the effects of thyroid hormone medications, so those taking thyroid medication should monitor their levels and consult with a doctor.
- Antidepressants and Anti-Anxiety Medications: Ashwagandha may have an additive effect with antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications, potentially increasing their effects.
- Blood Pressure Medications: Ashwagandha may lower blood pressure, which can interact with blood pressure medications and lead to excessively low blood pressure.
- Immune-Suppressing Drugs: Ashwagandha may stimulate the immune system, so it could interfere with immunosuppressive medications.
Is it Bad to Mix Ashwagandha with Anything?
Generally, ashwagandha is safe to mix with most supplements, but caution should be taken when combining it with sedative medications, thyroid medications, or blood pressure medications. Always consult a healthcare provider if you are on any long-term medication.
What Vitamins Don’t Mix with Ashwagandha?
There are no specific vitamins that don’t mix with ashwagandha. However, ashwagandha may have synergistic effects with vitamins like vitamin D or B vitamins, which support stress reduction and overall well-being.
Can I Take Ashwagandha and Magnesium Together?
Yes, ashwagandha and magnesium can be taken together. Both have calming and stress-reducing properties, so combining them may enhance relaxation and improve sleep quality.
Finding the Best Time of Day to Take Ashwagandha
The best time of day to take ashwagandha largely depends on your personal goals and lifestyle. Whether you choose to take it in the morning for energy and stress reduction or at night for sleep support, ashwagandha offers a range of benefits that can help improve overall well-being. By experimenting with timing and dosage, you can find the ideal way to incorporate ashwagandha into your routine.
By experimenting with timing and dosage, you can find the ideal way to incorporate ashwagandha into your routine. You can also complement the calming effects of ashwagandha with other natural remedies, using your knowledge of chamomile, and peppermint, or how to make weed oil. This will be more conducive to relaxation and stress relief.
FAQ
Is Melatonin or Ashwagandha Better for Sleep?
While melatonin is a hormone that regulates sleep, ashwagandha can help promote relaxation and reduce anxiety, making it a good option for improving sleep quality.
How Long Does It Take for Ashwagandha to Kick In?
It can take a few days to a few weeks for ashwagandha’s full effects to be felt, depending on your body and how regularly you take it.
Does Ashwagandha Make You Feel Weird at First?
Some people may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort or a slight feeling of drowsiness when starting ashwagandha, but this typically subsides after a few days.
Does Ashwagandha Give You Energy?
Yes, ashwagandha in the morning can help increase energy and reduce fatigue by balancing cortisol levels and improving overall vitality.
Does Ashwagandha Increase Estrogen Levels?
Ashwagandha may have mild estrogenic effects, but more research is needed to understand its impact on hormone levels.
Does Ashwagandha Increase Testosterone?
There is some evidence suggesting that ashwagandha may help increase testosterone levels, particularly in men with low testosterone.
How to Tell if Ashwagandha Is Working?
Signs that ashwagandha is working include reduced stress levels, improved mood, better sleep quality, and increased energy.
What Happens When You Take Ashwagandha Daily?
Taking ashwagandha daily can help reduce stress, improve cognitive function, and promote overall well-being, though the full effects may take some time to manifest.