Can You Take Ashwagandha Every Day?

Indian ginseng grows as an herby, evergreen shrub in India, the Middle East, and some regions of Africa. Most parts of the plant have been used medically in India for many years.

Regardless of what you call it, there is a growing body of evidence that the herb can help with certain medical conditions. For example, one recent study showed that, at high doses, it appears to reduce the effects of stress.

What Is It Used For?

There are many uses for Indian ginseng, both traditional and modern. For example, it has long been used to treat swelling and sores in India, as well as a tonic for children. Consider the following common uses for ashwagandha today:

Reduce Symptoms of Depression

Mental health concerns are becoming more common in society, and many individuals are seeking natural methods for treating symptoms. A limited amount of research shows that Indian ginseng may help ease some symptoms of common mental health conditions like depression. However, patients should always consult their health care provider before adding any new medicines, including natural ones.

Lower Perceived Stress Levels

As an adaptogen, Indian ginseng helps the body adjust to changing situations. This often results in lower stress levels and more pronounced feelings of happiness and personal satisfaction. Since stress is an unavoidable part of life, a safe and natural way to manage it is very attractive.

Support Healthy Brain Function and Memory

Many health-conscious adults choose Indian ginseng for its neurotropic benefits. Sometimes called brain or memory enhancers, nootropics are substances that help support memory and cognitive function. They are increasingly used by individuals concerned about memory loss, brain fog, and similar conditions. Ashwagandha is a popular option in large part because it is generally considered safe for daily use.

Increase Energy Levels

Another historical and current use for the herb is to increase energy levels. This appears to apply to physical and mental energy since the supplement has been linked to improvements in both.

Improved Sleep

If you struggle to get a good night’s sleep, you might benefit from taking an Indian ginseng supplement. Several studies have shown a link between consumption and improved sleep, which may be a direct result of lower anxiety and stress levels.

Regulate Blood Sugar

There is some limited evidence that Indian ginseng can help regulate elevated blood sugar levels. As with some other purported uses, more research is needed to confirm these benefits. However, its safety profile makes it an attractive choice for individuals struggling to maintain steady blood sugar levels.

Improved Physical Performance

Indian ginseng offers a ray of hope for athletes and individuals who have noticed a decline in physical performance. It has a strong history of use for performance enhancement. Additionally, there is some evidence that it can help in this area.

Some enhancement may be due to the herb’s ability to increase maximum oxygen consumption during strenuous activities. However, a possible link to increased testosterone levels may be another explanation.

Can You Take It Every Day?

According to existing research, it is generally considered safe for most adults to take Indian ginseng on a daily basis. However, you should always read warnings and take it according to package instructions. Pay special attention to any dosing recommendations based on body weight and the desired effects.

You may want to start taking Indian ginseng with food, which often helps remove any stomach discomfort associated with taking medication. However, it is perfectly safe to take it on an empty stomach if you prefer.

Another consideration is the source of your supplements. Always choose a high-quality product to avoid contamination of plant materials with things like dirt or heavy metals and chemicals from the soil where plants are grown.

How Do You Take It?

What Part of the Plant Is Used as Medicine?

Most of the Withania somnifera plant can be used for medicinal purposes. However, most currently available products are made from the plant’s roots. The leaves are also commonly used. Both the flowers and seeds of the plant are used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, although their use is less common today than it was historically.

To extract the plant’s medicinal properties, the root fibers and leaves are ground into a fine powder. This is mixed with other herbs to make teas and capsules. It can also be made into a paste and applied to wounds, sores, or areas of pain and swelling.

Who Should Use It?

Since many of the uses for Withania somnifera involve neurological or brain function, it is a favorite among those looking to enhance memory and cognitive function. If that sounds like you, then Indian ginseng may be a good choice. It may also be helpful for individuals who want to enhance athletic performance, improve sleep quality, and relieve symptoms of certain common mental health disorders. However, because of possible interactions, you should always talk to your doctor before taking any new supplements, even herbal ones.

Is Indian Ginseng Safe?

Ashwagandha is generally considered safe for most people, even in relatively high doses used in studies. It can be taken daily at lower levels with little risk of side effects or adverse reactions. However, just like any medication, it may interfere with certain other medications you are currently taking. That is why, if you have a diagnosed health condition, it is a good idea to talk with your health care provider before adding Indian gInseng to your daily routine.

Contraindications To Use

While widely considered safe, some groups of people should avoid using Indian ginseng. If you can relate to any of the following situations, it is probably a good idea to avoid or postpone use:

• You have hormone-sensitive prostate cancer
• You have a thyroid disorder
• You have high blood pressure or another form of heart disease
• You are pregnant or lactating
• You have an autoimmune disorder
• You are currently taking barbituates, benzodiazepines, or anticonvulsants