Introduction
Please note this product is not intended to treat or cure any disease and if you are worried please consult your doctor.
TLDR: How long does it take for ashwagandha to work? In this blog we take a look at this. Patience is key when it comes to introducing new herbs into your diet. Start low and allow time.
If you are considering taking ashwagandha for its benefits, then you may be wondering how long it takes for ashwagandha to start working. In this article, we will provide an overview of ashwagandha – from how it works and how long it takes for it to start working – so that you can make an informed decision. Please note, we aren’t doctors and if you are worried about anything we really recommend you speak to your doctor.

What Is Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha is an ancient herbal remedy used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, and has recently become popular in the West as a natural supplement. The name of the herb comes from the Sanskrit language and roughly translates to “smell of a horse”, which references the unique scent that some of its roots possess. It is also sometimes referred to as Indian ginseng because of its health benefits.
This small shrub-like plant has long been revered for its rejuvenating effects, historically used to treat a wide range of health issues including stress, anxiety, and insomnia. Ashwagandha contains active ingredients known as withanolides, which are thought to be responsible for many of its therapeutic properties. It has been most frequently studied for its ability to reduce stress and anxiety levels, conferring anti-inflammatory effects in the body as well.

What Are the Benefits of Taking Ashwagandha?
The ancient Ayurvedic system of healing has long prescribed the herb ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera, for its unique properties. Studies have found that taking ashwagandha can lead to a number of health benefits, including:
- Improved energy levels: Ashwagandha is believed to help boost energy levels and reduce fatigue. A study published in the journal Phytotherapy Research found that people who took 500mg of ashwagandha extract daily for 60 days reported improved energy levels and reduced fatigue.
- Stress relief: Ashwagandha is commonly used to help relieve stress and anxiety. In a study published in the Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine, participants who took 300mg or 600mg of ashwagandha root extract for 60 days reported significant reductions in stress and anxiety levels.
- Improved brain function: Another study published in the journal Neurochemistry International found that people who supplemented with 600mg of ashwagandha extract daily experienced improved memory and reaction times compared to those who didn’t take it.
These benefits may be thanks to its active compounds, including alkaloids and saponins, which work together to alter the way your body processes hormones like cortisol that are associated with stress relief.

How Does Ashwagandha Work?
So, you’re wondering exactly how ashwagandha works? The root has antioxidants that may help to fight off free radicals and reduce inflammation, but there is much more to it than just that. As far as studies show, ashwagandha may have the ability to:
- Support your body’s natural hormone production
- Stabilise cortisol levels and improve stress responses
- Boost your immune system
- Enhance brain function and memory capacity
- Increase energy levels by improving the body’s metabolic rate.
These effects are achieved through a series of chemical processes in your body initiated by consuming ashwagandha. As it is processed, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds could be released which then interact with different parts of your body’s physiology. This includes stimulating certain organs like the adrenal glands to produce hormones that increase energy and reduce stress. Through this interaction, both physical and mental benefits are created. Furthermore, clinical trials have found that taking ashwagandha may improve overall well-being in postmenopausal women with chronic stress.

How Long Does It Take For Ashwagandha To Work?
What Dosage Should I Take for Maximum Effect?
Finding the right dosage of Ashwagandha for maximum effectiveness can be tricky. As a general rule, you should take about 500mg (3/4 teaspoon) of the powdered root per day for adults. For children under 12 years old, the recommended dose is 3/4 teaspoon per 10 kilogrammes of body weight.
It’s important to get an accurate measurement – if you take too little, you won’t feel any effects, and if you take too much, you may experience adverse side effects. Additionally, some people need to take more or less than the recommended dosage to achieve the desired result. It is best to consult your doctor or healthcare provider to determine what exactly is right for your individual needs.
We sell 1000mg capsules, which you can get here.
How Long Does It Take For Ashwagandha To Work?
When taking ashwagandha, you may be wondering how long it takes to see results. While it will vary depending on your individual needs and other factors such as age or the severity of symptoms, there are some general guidelines for when you can expect to start seeing the effects of ashwagandha.
After One Week
After one week of taking ashwagandha, some users have reported feeling a more balanced mood. Studies have found that after just one week of taking ashwagandha daily, participants experienced a decrease in anxiety and stress levels.
After Two Weeks
After two weeks of taking ashwagandha, users have reported a notable increase in energy and vitality. Studies also suggest that ashwagandha is effective at increasing strength, muscle mass and endurance after two weeks of use.
After 30 Days
If you’ve been taking ashwagandha for 30 days or more, you might find that your overall wellbeing has improved significantly. Ashwagandha can help reduce fatigue and insomnia after one month of use. It can also act as an anti-inflammatory agent to reduce chronic pain from swelling and joint discomfort due to autoimmune disorders.
After Six Months
By taking ashwagandha for six months or longer, users have found that their cognitive function improves significantly with increased recollection, focus and mental clarity. A study published in Evidence-Based Complementary Medicine showed that those who took 600mg per day of the herb for eight weeks noticed significant improvements in their cognitive performance when compared with a placebo group.(1)
How to maximise effects of Ashwagandha
To maximise the effects of Ashwagandha, it is important to understand the right dosage and timing. Start with a low dose and gradually increase it as recommended by your healthcare provider or a qualified herbalist, until you reach the full benefits.
It is also important to remember that Ashwagandha works best when taken regularly. Taking it on alternate days can help create a steady and sustained effect over time. It is important to note that combining Ashwagandha with other supplements or medications may magnify the potential impacts, so please consult with your healthcare provider before considering this option.
Finally, as with any supplement, there can be side effects from taking too much Ashwagandha. These include gastro-intestinal distress, such as abdominal pain, nausea and diarrhoea; hypertension; headaches; rashes; and muscle cramps. As such, it is important to begin with small doses and only increase them according to your healthcare provider’s advice.
Potential Side Effects of Taking Ashwagandha
While ashwagandha is a natural remedy and generally safe to take, there are some potential side effects that you need to be aware of. It is always a good idea to talk to your doctor before taking any new supplement.
Common side effects from taking ashwagandha may include:
- Digestive issues such as upset stomach, gas or bloating
- Drowsiness or fatigue due to its sedative properties
- Skin rash
- Headache
- Dizziness
In rare cases, ashwagandha may cause itching, low blood pressure or even increase the risk of bleeding if taken with certain medications. It is important to note that ashwagandha should not be taken during pregnancy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it’s important to remember that everyone is different and everyone’s body will react differently to ashwagandha. The amount of time it takes for ashwagandha to start working varies from person to person, but most people begin to feel benefits after a few weeks of regular use. However, for the best results, it is advised that you take a regular ashwagandha supplement for at least 6-8 weeks. Be sure to consult your doctor before starting any new supplement, as everyone’s body reacts differently to these supplements. With proper dosage, adhering to a regular supplement regimen, and eating a balanced diet, you should start to feel the effects of ashwagandha in no time.
