How Long Does It Take for Ashwagandha To Work?

Published on May 06, 2024


By Gaia Herbs

Gaia Herbs

In an increasingly hectic world, where the noise of technology and daily demands can become overwhelming, we understand why many turn back to the comforting arms of Mother Nature to recalibrate. In this return to our roots, we discover the wisdom of ancient remedies. 

Ashwagandha is a popular remedy that has gained quite a reputation for its ability to soothe feelings of stress. As we learn its story, a natural question arises—how soon can you anticipate these effects? 

What is Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha, also called Withania somnifera, is a small woody shrub native to India, North Africa, and the Middle East. Its characteristic red berries and green, velvety leaves have made it a distinguishable figure in many botanical landscapes. 

For centuries, it has been a cornerstone in Ayurveda for its potential to balance, rejuvenate, and invigorate the system.REF#3938 Often termed the "Indian Ginseng," this moniker isn't in reference to its botanical relationship to ginseng, but rather its similar rejuvenating properties in traditional medicine. 

Its name, in Sanskrit, paints a vivid picture: "Ashwa," meaning horse, and "Gandha," meaning smell, hint at the herb's unique aroma and its purported ability to impart the vigor and strength of a horse.

As the world rapidly evolves, our mission here at Gaia is clear: we are dedicated to combining age-old wisdom with sustainable practices. With ashwagandha, we craft more than just a supplement; it's a bond between us and the planet, a promise of holistic well-being.

What are the Common Uses of Ashwagandha?

While modern-day challenges often revolve around digital screens and urban lifestyles, our ancestors grappled with different stressors. Yet, ashwagandha can offer calm and resilience just as easily today as it could for our ancestors.

From promoting vitality and vigor and aiding sleep to supporting cognitive functions and relaxation, ashwagandha has many traditional uses. Recent studies have echoed some of these sentiments, with research delving into its potential impact on stress management and cognitive health.REF#3939

With ashwagandha's rich tapestry of history and promise, it's no wonder many are drawn towards it.

How Long Does it Take for Ashwagandha to Work?

The effects of ashwagandha is often gentle, a subtle touch rather than an overwhelming difference suddenly. Just like everyone might experience the benefits of ashwagandha differently, the time it takes to experience those benefits can vary between individuals.

Some might feel its benefits within days. For others, the experience is a slow unfolding. The main thing to keep in mind is that consistency is key. Whether you take ashwagandha in the morning or the evening, its effects tend to compound with each day you take it.

Dietary choices can also amplify ashwagandha's benefits. On the flip side, high caffeine or alcohol consumption could potentially mask or delay its calming effects. 

How Does Ashwagandha Interact With the Body?

Ashwagandha boasts a treasure trove of bioactive compounds that engage in dialogue with our physiological systems.REF#3940

One of its primary interactions is with the endocrine system, where it helps support balanced levels of cortisol, our stress hormone.REF#3941 It can also support our central nervous system, soothing anxious nerves and fostering a sense of calm. 

Furthermore, emerging studies hint at its potential to interact with our immune system, supporting a healthy immune response.REF#3942

Does Everyone React to Ashwagandha the Same Way?

Nature's remedies, as powerful as they might be, don't weave the same tale for everyone. The effects of ashwagandha can vary, depending on a few factors.

These can include:

  • Age: Hormonal fluctuations, whether in puberty or menopause, can cause ashwagandha to yield slightly different effects.
  • Gender: The hormonal makeup of women may mean that they’ll see different benefits than men when it comes to ashwagandha.
  • Health conditions: If you’re already generally healthy, you may not notice many benefits for your immune system.

Who Shouldn’t Take Ashwagandha?

The benefits of ashwagandha are undoubtedly vast, but it’s also important to know the potential side effects and interactions. 

Here are a few factors that could cause you to have a less-than-positive experience with ashwagandha. This isn’t a complete list. Always talk with your doctor:

  • Thyroid disorders: Ashwagandha's potential to affect thyroid hormones means that those with thyroid disorders should use caution and consult with a healthcare provider. 
  • Certain medications: Those who rely on sedative medications or on antihypertensive drugs might find that ashwagandha could amplify or conflict with these medications.
  • Pregnancy and nursing: Because ashwagandha can affect hormones, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider before taking it while pregnant or breastfeeding.

How Can You Incorporate Ashwagandha into Your Daily Life?

While capsules and gummies offer a quick, no-fuss method of imbibing ashwagandha's benefits, the liquid extracts provide versatility for the creative soul. A few droplets in a morning smoothie or a post-workout juice not only nourishes the body but also invites a moment of mindfulness. 

Culinary enthusiasts can delve deeper, introducing ashwagandha powder into dishes, whether it’s a comforting soup or an energy-packed granola bar. You can also enjoy ashwagandha in the form of tea.

The Bottom Line

Life can often feel overwhelming, punctuated by moments of stress and longing for tranquility. In the midst of this craziness, ashwagandha can help provide some much-needed relaxation, especially when sourced from a brand as dedicated as Gaia Herbs. 

When it comes to taking ashwagandha, one thing is for certain: Consistency is key. You may not feel immediate effects, and you may not even feel many effects within a couple of days of taking ashwagandha.

However, as it builds within your system and has time to support balance from the inside out, ashwagandha can lead to some helpful long-term benefits. Remember that what works for one person may not work for another — it’s important to listen to your own body and work with a healthcare provider to find a routine that suits your unique needs.

At Gaia Herbs, we understand the importance of high-quality herbal supplements. To learn more about different herbal remedies and ways you can support your well-being, visit our blog.

REFERENCES:

  • 1. Singh, N., Bhalla, M., de Jager, P., & Gilca, M. (2011) , "An overview on ashwagandha: a Rasayana (rejuvenator) of Ayurveda", African journal of traditional, complementary, and alternative medicines : AJTCAM, 8(5 Suppl), 208–213.
  • 2. Xing, D., Yoo, C., Gonzalez, D., Jenkins, V., Nottingham, K., Dickerson, B., Leonard, M., Ko, J., Faries, M., Kephart, W., Purpura, M., Jäger, R., Sowinski, R., Rasmussen, C. J., & Kreider, R. B. (2022), "Effects of Acute Ashwagandha Ingestion on Cognitive Function ", International journal of environmental research and public health, 19(19), 11852.
  • 3. Mikulska, P., Malinowska, M., Ignacyk, M., Szustowski, P., Nowak, J., Pesta, K., Szeląg, M., Szklanny, D., Judasz, E., Kaczmarek, G., Ejiohuo, O. P., Paczkowska-Walendowska, M., Gościniak, A., & Cielecka-Piontek, J. (2023), "Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)-Current Research on the Health-Promoting Activities: A Narrative Review", Pharmaceutics, 15(4), 1057.
  • 4. Lopresti, A. L., Smith, S. J., Malvi, H., & Kodgule, R. (2019) , "An investigation into the stress-relieving and pharmacological actions of an ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study", Medicine, 98(37), e17186.
  • 5. Tharakan, A., Shukla, H., Benny, I. R., Tharakan, M., George, L., & Koshy, S. (2021), "Immunomodulatory Effect of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) Extract-A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo Controlled Trial with an Open Label Extension on Healthy Participants ", Journal of clinical medicine, 10(16), 3644.