30 Sec Answer: Anyone who is pregnant, breastfeeding, has thyroid issues or an autoimmune disorder should not take ashwagandha. People taking medications for heart disease or diabetes should also talk to their doctor before using it.
What Is Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha is an ancient herb that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years. It’s often referred to as Indian ginseng and is believed to have powerful health benefits including reducing stress, improving mental clarity, boosting the immune system, increasing energy levels, and aiding in weight loss. It is available in capsule form, tea, powder, extract and even tinctures.
What Are the Benefits of Ashwagandha?
The primary benefit of ashwagandha is its ability to reduce stress and anxiety. Studies have found that it can help with sleep disturbances and other mood disorders associated with high levels of stress. It may also improve memory and concentration and enhance physical performance by increasing endurance and strength. Additionally, ashwagandha may help support a healthy metabolism and aid in weight management by suppressing appetite and cravings.
Who Should Not Take Ashwagandha?
Anyone who is pregnant, breastfeeding, has thyroid issues or an autoimmune disorder should not take ashwagandha without consulting a doctor first. Additionally, those taking medication for heart disease or diabetes should speak with their physician prior to use as ashwagandha may interact with some medications. Lastly, those under 18 should avoid taking ashwagandha unless recommended by a medical professional.
How Much Ashwagandha Should I Take?
Typically the dose will range from 500mg – 6g per day depending on your body type and goal. Generally speaking it’s best to start off low (500mg) then work your way up over time if needed. It’s important to note that there are no definitive studies that suggest what the optimal dosage of ashwagandha is so make sure to consult a doctor or pharmacist before starting any new supplement regimen.
What Are The Side Effects Of Taking Too Much Ashwagandha?
In general, ashwagandha is considered safe when taken at recommended doses but it can cause side effects such as stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea if taken in excess amounts. It can also cause headaches or drowsiness so it’s important to monitor your response while taking this supplement. Additionally, too much ashwagandha can interfere with certain medications like sedatives or blood thinners so you’ll want to check with your healthcare provider before beginning a regimen with this supplement.
Can You Overdose On Ashwagandha?
It is possible to overdose on ashwagandha but it would be difficult given the recommended daily dosage ranges from 500 mg-6 g per day depending on individual needs. If someone does experience an overdose they may experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, headaches or dizziness so it’s important to contact poison control immediately if these symptoms occur after taking more than the recommended amount of ashwagandha.
Does Ashwagandha Interact With Other Medications Or Supplements?
Yes, ashwagandha can interact with other medications or supplements so it’s important to discuss any potential interactions with your doctor or pharmacist prior to use. For example, it may interfere with sedative medications and increase the risk of bleeding if taken alongside anticoagulants or blood thinners. Additionally, certain herbs like St John’s Wort can interact negatively with ashwagandha so make sure to check with your healthcare provider before combining them together.
Is There Any Evidence That Ashwaganda Works?
There have been numerous studies conducted on the effectiveness of ashawganda which have suggested that it may be beneficial for people suffering from stress related conditions such as depression and anxiety as well as cognitive decline due to aging processes like Alzheimer’s Disease or dementia. Furthermore, studies have also shown that regular consumption of this herb could lead to improved energy levels due to its adaptogenic properties which allow it to assist in managing fatigue caused by strenuous activities or chronic illness.
What Forms Of Ashwaganda Are Available?
Ashawganda is available in several forms including capsules/tablets , liquid extracts , tinctures , teas , powders , topical creams and ointments . While all forms are generally considered effective , the most popular form tends to be capsules/tablets because they offer convenience , easy dosing control , longer shelf life , and greater absorption rate into the bloodstream compared to other forms . Additionally , liquid extracts are absorbed quickly but must be refrigerated upon opening while tinctures tend to offer fast absorption rates without having to refrigerate them .
How Long Does It Take For Ashawaganda To Work?
Most people will begin feeling the effects of ashawganda within one hour but the full effects typically won’t become apparent until four hours after ingestion . Additionally , those taking larger doses may not see results for up two weeks after starting treatment since our bodies need time for absorption . Nevertheless , many people report feeling a reduction in their stress levels after just one week of taking this supplement regularly .
What Is The Best Time Of Day To Take Ashawganda?
Generally speaking , you should take this supplement once in the morning and once again at night . However , depending on your personal needs you can adjust your intake times according to when works best for you . For instance , those needing extra help falling asleep at night might opt for evening dosages only while those wanting improved focus during the day might choose morning only doses instead . Ultimately it’s important that you find what works best for you personally in terms of timing .
Is Ashawganda Safe To Use Long Term?
Yes ! In fact many experts believe that long term usage may actually yield better results due to its slow onset nature . So although you shouldn’t expect immediate relief from this supplement you could still reap many lasting benefits from its continued use . As always however make sure that you are following instructions carefully when taking this supplement for extended periods of time since excessive usage could result in unwanted side effects such as headaches or upset stomach .
What Are The Possible Risks Of Taking Ashawganda?
Although side effects are rare when taken correctly there are still some risks associated with this supplement which include nausea , vomiting , diarrhea , headaches , dizziness and low blood sugar levels . Therefore if you experience any adverse reactions while using this product discontinue use immediately and contact your doctor right away . Furthermore those taking anticoagulant drugs or other medications like beta blockers should avoid using ashawganda altogether as it could interact negatively with them causing further complications .
How Should I Store My Supply Of Ashawganda ?
Like most dietary supplements proper storage is essential for maintaining freshness quality & potency especially if purchasing powdered forms where oxidation can easily occur if left exposed too air light & heat sources . When storing yours keep out of direct sunlight & never expose above 75°F (24°C). Also try storing sealed bottles inside cool dark cupboards away from open windows fans radiators & similar locations for maximum shelf life duration .
