Unlocking Ashwagandha's Power: An AIIMS Expert Reveals the Optimal Time for Your Supplement

Ashwagandha, an ancient medicinal herb revered in Ayurvedic tradition, has gained immense popularity for its remarkable adaptogenic properties. Known to help the body manage stress, enhance energy, and improve sleep, this powerful plant is a staple in many wellness routines. However, simply taking Ashwagandha isn't enough; according to experts, the timing of your dose can significantly impact its efficacy.

Dr.

Saurabh Sethi, a distinguished gastroenterologist from AIIMS, sheds light on this crucial aspect, emphasizing that strategic timing can unlock the herb's full potential. He explains that whether you're seeking a boost in daytime vitality or a calming end to your evening, adjusting when you take your supplement is key to maximizing its benefits.

Morning Ritual: Fueling Your Day with Ashwagandha

For those looking to kickstart their day with sustained energy and a resilient mindset, the morning is an ideal time to incorporate Ashwagandha.

Dr. Sethi suggests taking your Ashwagandha supplement with your breakfast. This timing allows the herb to integrate with your body's metabolic processes early on, helping to:

• Boost Energy Levels: Combat morning sluggishness and maintain alertness throughout the day.
• Enhance Focus and Concentration: Improve cognitive function, aiding productivity.
• Reduce Daytime Stress: Prepare your body to better handle daily stressors, promoting a sense of calm resilience.

Taking it with food can also aid in better absorption and minimize any potential stomach discomfort, making it a smooth start to your day.

Evening Embrace: Winding Down for Restorative Sleep

If your primary goal is to alleviate stress, promote relaxation, and achieve a deeper, more restorative sleep, then an evening dose of Ashwagandha is highly recommended.

Dr. Sethi advises taking it with dinner or approximately 30 minutes to an hour before bedtime.

An evening intake works synergistically with your body's natural wind-down process, contributing to:

• Calmness and Relaxation: Helping to quiet an overactive mind, preparing you for sleep.
• Improved Sleep Quality: Facilitating deeper sleep cycles and reducing instances of waking up.
• Stress Alleviation: Continuously working to modulate your body's stress response, even as you rest.

Beyond Timing: Understanding Ashwagandha's Broad Spectrum Benefits

While timing is critical for specific outcomes, Ashwagandha offers a host of other health advantages regardless of when you take it, including:

• Anti-inflammatory Properties: Helping to reduce inflammation throughout the body.
• Immune System Support: Boosting the body's natural defenses.
• Cognitive Enhancement: Supporting memory and overall brain health.
• Hormonal Balance: Particularly beneficial for managing stress-related hormonal fluctuations.

Forms, Dosage, and Crucial Consultations

Ashwagandha is available in various forms, including powders, capsules, and liquid extracts, allowing you to choose what best fits your lifestyle.

While a general dosage often ranges from 300 to 500 mg daily, it is paramount to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating Ashwagandha into your routine.

This is especially crucial if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have underlying health conditions, or are currently taking other medications, as Ashwagandha can interact with certain drugs or conditions.

A medical expert can provide personalized advice on the appropriate dosage and timing, ensuring safety and optimal results.

By understanding the nuances of Ashwagandha timing, as illuminated by an AIIMS gastroenterologist, you can transform your supplement intake from a routine habit into a targeted strategy for enhanced well-being.

Listen to your body, consult your doctor, and let this ancient herb work its magic at the right moment for you.