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Ashwagandha is an herb that is widely known for its various health benefits. It has been used in Ayurvedic tonics for centuries and is now gaining popularity in the Western world as an adaptogen used in many different supplements, teas, and health food products.
While the name might sound intimidating, Ashwagandha is a plant believed to be correlated with many positive health benefits. It's a plant that's native to India and some parts of Africa. It is also known as Indian ginseng or winter cherry.
The root of the plant is used to make supplements that are said to support many different benefits—but is it a good choice for you? And what time of day is best to take this supplement?
While we can't make any scientific claims about it healing or altering your health state, we can say it may support a wide range of health benefits.
Keep reading to find out when you should take ashwagandha and the potential benefits you may notice.
Ashwagandha and a Good Night's Sleep
Ashwagandha has been shown to potentially improve the quality of sleep in some individuals by supporting lower cortisol levels.
Cortisol is a stress hormone that can interfere with your body's natural sleep-wake cycle. This means taking ashwagandha before bed may help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. People have reported that their sleep quality increased while taking Ashwagandha daily.
Ashwagandha and Stress Levels
Ashwagandha's benefits for stress are often one of the most popular reasons people add it to their daily routine.
For many, stress is highest in the morning as we start our day, look at our to-do list, or get ready for work before running out the door. This makes taking ashwagandha in the morning a great option for those looking to support a healthier stress response throughout the day.
On the other hand, some of us may experience more stress at night due to work or personal thoughts spinning in our minds at night when we try to sleep.
In this case, taking ashwagandha at night may be more beneficial as it can help promote a sense of relaxation and calmness before bedtime.
Ashwagandha and Your Brain
Did you forget something? In addition to supporting lower levels of anxiety and a good night's sleep, ashwagandha has also been shown to potentially support your cognitive functioning and memory.
This is especially important for those who are looking to maintain mental clarity and focus throughout the day, whether it be for work or other daily activities.
Studies have shown that ashwagandha may help improve reaction time, decision-making, and information processing. This is believed to be due to its ability to promote a sense of calmness in the brain.
Your brain operates at a higher capacity when you're not super anxious or stressed, and ashwagandha may promote lower levels of previously mentioned cortisol in your body.
Ashwagandha and Hormones
Studies show that ashwagandha can potentially promote a healthy hormone balance. This could be a great support for menopausal women who may experience fluctuating hormones.
Additionally, studies have shown that ashwagandha may help to support thyroid health by promoting lower levels of inflammation in the body.
This is important as the thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, energy levels, and mood, and when inflammation is high, the thyroid can get off track.
When Should I Take Ashwagandha?
While you can take ashwagandha at any time of the day, the best time depends on your specific needs.
If your goal is to support better quality rest, it’s best to take ashwagandha at night. The herb has a calming effect that helps reduce cortisol levels, making it easier for you to relax and have a good night's sleep.
On the other hand, if you’re looking to support lower levels of stress and a sharp mind, it’s best to take it in the morning.
If you are taking ashwagandha, make sure it’s a quality supplement made with KSM-66 Ashwagandha®. As always, talk to a trusted healthcare professional before deciding on the best time to take it, and whether to take it with food or not.
Another important thing to note is the suggested dosage. The recommended dose of ashwagandha varies depending on your health goals, age, and medical condition. It is advisable to start with a small dosage and work your way up.
Conclusion
In short? You can technically take ashwagandha any time of day! However, the best time of the day to take ashwagandha depends on your specific needs and goals.
Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements or if you’re not about the dosage or how it could impact you. You may find that ashwagandha is your go-to supplement for many different wellness goals.