How Long Does It Take Ashwagandha To Work –How Long Does It Take Ashwagandha to Work? Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera, is an adaptogenic herb that has been used for centuries in traditional Ayurvedic medicine to improve overall health and alleviate stress-related conditions. Today, ashwagandha is gaining popularity in Western medicine as a natural supplement for managing stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as improving cognitive function, boosting immunity, and reducing inflammation. If you’re considering taking ashwagandha, you’re probably wondering how long it takes for the herb to start working and what benefits you can expect. In this article, we’ll explore the effects of ashwagandha on the body, how it works, and how long it takes to see results. What is Ashwagandha? Ashwagandha is a small shrub with yellow flowers that is native to India and North Africa. Its roots and berries have been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years to treat a variety of health conditions, including fatigue, stress, anxiety, and inflammation. Ashwagandha contains several active compounds, including withanolides, alkaloids, and saponins, that are believed to have a range of health benefits. Withanolides, in particular, have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties. How Does Ashwagandha Work? Ashwagandha works by modulating the body’s stress response system, also known as the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. The HPA axis is a complex network of hormones and neurotransmitters that are involved in the body’s response to stress. When you’re under stress, your body releases cortisol, a hormone that can have negative effects on your health if it’s chronically elevated. Ashwagandha helps to reduce cortisol levels in the body by blocking the release of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), a hormone that stimulates cortisol production. By reducing cortisol levels, ashwagandha can help alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as improve cognitive function and boost immunity. How Long Does It Take Ashwagandha to Work? The effects of ashwagandha can vary depending on several factors, including the dose, the form of the supplement, and the individual’s overall health and lifestyle habits. In general, it can take several weeks to start noticing the effects of ashwagandha supplementation. A 2012 study published in the Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine found that ashwagandha supplementation for 60 days was effective in reducing stress and anxiety levels in adults with a history of chronic stress. Another study published in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine found that ashwagandha supplementation for eight weeks was effective in improving cognitive function in healthy adults. However, some people may start noticing the effects of ashwagandha supplementation sooner than others. According to a 2014 study published in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, some people may start experiencing the benefits of ashwagandha supplementation within two weeks. It’s important to note that the effects of ashwagandha may be more subtle than those of prescription medications. While prescription medications for stress and anxiety may provide immediate relief, ashwagandha works more gradually to restore balance to the body’s stress response system. It may take several weeks or months of consistent supplementation to see significant improvements in stress, anxiety, and other related conditions. What Are the Benefits of Ashwagandha? In addition to reducing stress and anxiety levels, ashwagandha has been shown to have several other health benefits. Here are some of the potential benefits of ashwagandha supplementation: 1. Improves cognitive function: Ashwagandha has been shown to improve memory and cognitive function, particularly in people with mild cognitive impairment. 2. Boosts immunity: Ashwagandha has immune-boosting properties that can help protect against infection and disease. 3. Reduces inflammation: Ashwagandha has anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate pain and inflammation in the body. 4. Lowers cholesterol levels: Ashwagandha has been shown to lower LDL cholesterol levels, which can reduce the risk of heart disease. 5. Improves fertility: Some studies have found that ashwagandha supplementation can improve fertility in both men and women. What Are the Side Effects of Ashwagandha? Ashwagandha is generally considered safe for most people when taken in recommended doses. However, some people may experience side effects, particularly if they take high doses of the supplement. Common side effects of ashwagandha may include: – Nausea – Diarrhea – Headache – Dizziness – Sleepiness It’s important to talk to your doctor before taking ashwagandha, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking any prescription medications. Ashwagandha may interact with certain medications, including sedatives, thyroid hormone, and immunosuppressants. FAQs 1. What is the recommended dose of ashwagandha? The recommended dose of ashwagandha can vary depending on the form of the supplement and the individual’s health needs. In general, most studies have used doses of 500-600 mg of ashwagandha extract per day. 2. Can ashwagandha be taken with other supplements or medications? Ashwagandha may interact with certain medications, including sedatives, thyroid hormone, and immunosuppressants. It’s important to talk to your doctor before taking ashwagandha if you’re taking any prescription medications. 3. Can ashwagandha be used for children? There is limited research on the safety and effectiveness of ashwagandha in children. It’s best to talk to your child’s doctor before giving them ashwagandha. 4. Can ashwagandha be taken during pregnancy or breastfeeding? There is limited research on the safety of ashwagandha during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It’s best to talk to your doctor before taking ashwagandha if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. 5. Does ashwagandha have any interactions with food or drink? Ashwagandha can be taken with or without food. However, some people may experience nausea or stomach upset if they take ashwagandha on an empty stomach. It’s best to take ashwagandha with a meal if you’re prone to stomach upset.