Ashwagandha is a magical medicine in Ayurveda. Most of the medicinal texts in Eastern philosophy include Ashwagandha as their main content. Any concoction without the ingredient could be hardly found in the scriptures. Its distinct woody taste and fragrance make it stand apart from the spices. Now when there is so much hype about wellness and peace, it is seen that Ashwagandha has made a comeback to the mainstream as one of the star ingredients that are used in almost all mixtures. But what time does it take to work? That will be this article’s area of discussion along with the why and how.
What Is Ashwagandha And What Are Its Uses?
Indian Ginseng has been mentioned in the Ayurvedic texts as one of the most potent adaptogenic herbs. Some of the main components of the herb include Alkaloids, Withanolides, and other compounds that make it an excellent choice if one wants to take care of their mental well-being. It has been known to have multiple uses including-
◾️ Adaptogenic Properties
As mentioned earlier, its adaptogenic properties are excellent which makes it a great stress reliever. Eating it in the right amounts could help you get over some major stresses
◾️ Reducing stress and anxiety
Its soothing fragrance can relieve stress and anxiety at a whiff and that is what makes it so useful.
◾️ Improving cognitive function
Ashwagandha is also known to improve one’s cognitive function making them more adept in decision-making with memory and concentration.
◾️ Boosting immunity
If you are looking to boost immunity you should look no further.
◾️ Anti-inflammatory effects
Inflammation of the organs is a common cause of diseases. But taking ashwagandha is known to be helpful when it comes to taking care of the body.
◾️ Enhancing physical performance
If you are looking to boost your performance naturally, you should take ashwagandha in the proper dosage.
How Long Does Ashwagandha Take To Work?
According to an approximation it takes over 4-12 weeks to take effect. Compared to allopathic medicines, this might seem like a long time but there are a few reasons why it takes so long-
1. Adaptogen
This is one of the reasons why it is a miracle medicine but it is also the reason why it takes so long to take effect. Adaptogenic herbs work at their own pace. It could be slower than others but once it takes effect, it could be long lasting. Additionally, since it will be working with your stress and anxiety it would require some time to help your brain get used to it.
2. Cumulative effects
We already saw that Ashwagandha has multiple benefits apart from stress reduction. All of these kick in after the first one comes in. So it could be almost months before you could reap the whole benefits of the potent spice and therefore consistency should be the key here.
3. Individual variability
We always need to take care of individual variability and how it may affect each of us. Our bodies are different and so is our ability to work with medicines and herbs. So it is no surprise if it starts showing its benefits early in some individuals but late in others. The focus should be to keep it in your schedule daily.
4. Dosage and Formulation
Like all medicines, consuming ashwagandha should also be taken into context with its dosage. For example, if a person is taking it twice a week in smaller amounts chances are they would show improvement than a person who isn’t regular with the dosage. Additionally, its formulations also vary accordingly, some might have a great quality in large amounts while others might have just enough in smaller quantities.
5. Specific considerations
When we take Ashwagandha, it could be for many reasons and that means you need to pay attention to the concern you are taking it for. For instance, a person taking it for stress relief might get it sooner than one taking it for sleep issues as that could take a considerable amount of time. No matter what, taking into account the kind of medicine and its dosage for the disease should be your priority without fail. It could be tough but it is worth the wait.
Maximizing Ashwagandha’s Benefits
1. Consistency
As with all medicines or with anything for that matter, consistency is key. You should be taking the medicine without fail.
2. Timing of administration
Ashwagandha with meals or after meals is known to be the best way to ensure absorption. So it is important that you follow it.
3. Consider water or fat solubility
This simply means you should go for the kind of medicine that aligns with your food. If you are into soups, you should go for water-soluble ones and vice versa.
4. Start with the dose recommended
No matter what the form of medicine is, never exceed or reduce the limit of dosage given to you. Making it haphazard will help none and therefore consistency should be maintained there as well.
5. Choose a quality supplement
Even if it costs more than the others, it is good to go for one in the premium range to ensure the effect is taken on immediately.
6. Combine with other life choices
You should match it up with a good diet, exercise, and enough sleep.
Conclusion
Ashwagandha has been lauded by many as the super ingredient that has defined this era. The spice has brought the Eastern medicine branch of Ayurveda to the forefront. But like most spices or herbs used in natural medicinal techniques, the reaction could be slower. More than you anticipated and it could be heartbreaking. To avoid this you should set your expectation at 4-12 weeks. Also, a person with a healthy lifestyle including no smoking and alcohol will have a better chance of the medicine working than a person who does so. So you should always follow a routine when on Ashwagandha combined with sleep and a stress-free environment.
