Ashwagandha has been used for centuries in traditional Ayurvedic practice, and today it's one of the most popular supplements for stress, sleep and energy. Research is still catching up, but some studies are promising.
Keep on reading to find out what we know about ashwagandha and energy, how people take it, and what to keep in mind before you try it.
Index
What is Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), also known as winter cherry, is a herb native to Africa, Asia, and southern Europe. It's commonly promoted for low energy, stress and anxiety.
Ashwagandha is known as an adaptogen, a term used for herbs traditionally believed to help the body cope with stress. It's also often promoted for memory and focus, though research on those uses is still limited.
What Does Ashwagandha Feel Like?
Ashwagandha doesn't work like caffeine. Many people describe the effect as a calmer, steadier feeling rather than a jolt of energy.
According to the National Institutes of Health, in several studies, people who took ashwagandha for 6 to 8 weeks reported feeling less stress and anxiety, as well as less fatigue.
Does Ashwagandha Give You Energy?
It may. In several studies, people taking ashwagandha reported less fatigue. It isn't a stimulant, though, so it doesn't work like coffee, and any difference takes time.
Some people take it at night instead, since a few small studies suggest it might improve sleep.
How Much Ashwagandha To Take?
There's no official recommended dose for ashwagandha, and amounts vary a lot depending on the product and whether it's a root powder or an extract.
We always advise consulting with your medical provider to find the right dose for you before starting any new supplement.
What Happens If You Take Too Much Ashwagandha?
Taking too much ashwagandha may cause stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting. It may also cause headaches and drowsiness.
Stick to the dose your healthcare provider recommends.
When To Take Ashwagandha For Energy?
People can take ashwagandha at any time of the day, and many prefer the morning.
If you'd like it to help with sleep, you can include it in your nightly routine.
Ashwagandha For Energy And Brain Fog
Ashwagandha is often promoted for concentration, focus and memory, and many people take it hoping to clear up brain fog. Research on these uses is still limited. If brain fog is persistent, talk to your doctor, since it can have many causes.
Does Ashwagandha Work Immediately?
No. Ashwagandha isn't an instant fix. In studies, people usually took it for 6 to 8 weeks before reporting a difference.
How Many Hours Does Ashwagandha Last?
Ashwagandha works gradually rather than having an immediate effect, so it's less about hours and more about consistent use over several weeks.
Who Should Not Take Ashwagandha?
It is always best to consult with your medical provider before taking any new supplement, and especially if you:
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have a thyroid condition or take thyroid medication
- Have liver problems
- Take any other medications
According to the National Institutes of Health, ashwagandha has been linked to liver injury in some people, and it might affect how your thyroid works and interact with thyroid medications. The NIH's NCCIH also notes there isn't enough information yet about its long-term safety.
What The Research Says About Ashwagandha
Here's where the evidence stands today, according to the National Institutes of Health:
- Stress and anxiety: several studies suggest ashwagandha might help.
- Fatigue: some study participants reported feeling less tired.
- Sleep: a few small studies suggest it might improve sleep.
- Other uses: ashwagandha is also promoted for things like strength, blood sugar and heart health, but the evidence for those is limited.
* Make sure to contact your medical provider before taking ashwagandha supplements. Every body is different and has different needs, so it is always best to consult your doctor.
Goldie Locks® & Ashwagandha
Depending on your wellness goals, ashwagandha can be a nice addition to your daily routine. Goldie Locks® Hair Supplements contain ashwagandha along with 20+ other vitamins, herbs, and minerals.
Our customers love making them part of their morning routine.