Ashwagandha for Anxiety – Does it Work?

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So you struggle with anxiety and want to know – will Ashwagandha work for me?

When looking for a natural alternative to reduce anxiety, Ashwagandha bubbles to the top of the list. It was one of the first supplements I found (and tried) when searching for help with Social Anxiety.

I dove into the claims and the science that backs it up. I did extensive research into ashwagandha for anxiety management, as well as bought samples of well rated brands for hands on testing. As part of the research, I also went through the reviews of each product to see what other buyers’ experiences have been. In total, 17 hours were spend testing and researching these supplements to find the best product for your needs. I found that there are a few key things to know before trying ashwagandha for anxiety.

What is Ashwagandha?

This root is popular in Ayurvedic medicine (Indian medicine) and has been used for over 3,000 years. Ashwagandha is known for a number of benefits, including thyroid regulation, battling anxiety and stress, helping depression, and decreasing inflammation. Ashwagandha for anxiety is the most notable and researched benefit.

Ayurveda uses it as a sleep aid and to balance various conditions that arise from ‘vata dosha’ imbalances. It encourages youth and vitality and considered a grounding and nourishing herb to support well-being.

Does Ashwagandha for Anxiety Work?

Ashwagandha can help reduce anxiety and stress. Clinical studies have shown Ashwagandha’s ability to help calm anxiety in humans and animals. It can also help with improving focus, stamina, and memory.

That’s why it’s common to see Ashwagandha as a common ingredient in nootropic stacks.

Similar to medications, Ashwagandha is not going to be the right fit for everyone. But it has worked wonders for many! There are thousands of Ashwagandha products available, many with stellar reviews.

Here a just a few of example studies that focus on Ashwagandha’s ability to reduce Anxiety:

Reduction in Cortisol Levels – One study with 64 people who struggled with stress, had a significant reduction in stress levels. For example, cortisol levels for the Ashwagandha participants were down 28%! These results were from taking 600mg of high concentration, full-spectrum Ashwagandha extract per day, for 60 days [1].

Reduction in Anxiety – In a different study, 88% of participants with anxiety disorders reported a reduction in anxiety, compared to 50% who took a placebo. The participants were previously diagnosed with disorders such as Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Mixed Anxiety & Depression, and Adjustment Disorder with Anxiety. The results were significant at after 6 weeks [2].

Reduction in Stress – In a double-blind, randomized study, Ashwagandha reduced experiential and biochemical indicators of stress without any adverse effects. Results were measured for participants taking 125mg, 250mg, and 500mg of Ashwagandha extract per day. Results were measured after 30 and 60 days. Indicators of stress were reduced at all doses but had greater effects as the dosage increased [3].

Based on previous human studies, results suggest Ashwagandha may help with the following:

• reduce anxiety and stress
• decrease c-reactive protein levels
• decrease cortisol
• improve memory formation

Ashwagandha is a well-researched herb with a strong track record showing positive results for those struggling with stress and anxiety. It is believed to be a safe supplement for long-term use without major side effects, though results may vary. Some side-effects have been reported, though they are often described as mild or moderate.

Side Effects

Some of the most common side effects include:

• upset stomach
• drowsiness
• headache
• can raise thyroid levels
• can irritate autoimmune disease

While this herb may not work for everyone, it can have a powerful impact on those struggling with anxiety.

Here’s what others are saying about Ashwagandha around the web:

Been taking it for a little over a year now. Little things don’t bother me, I’m more laid back, my natural test levels were .697 nm last time my bloods were taken, I sleep better, I wake up feeling fantastic, my tolerance to stress has increased. I will be taking this herb for the rest of my life. – NootropicsCity (reddit)

KSM-66 [ashwagandha] helped me sleep better when my cortisol levels were raised because of stress. Now that my levels are normal again i don’t notice any effects anymore. – ajin33 (reddit)

How long does it take for Ashwagandha to work for anxiety?

The body absorbs Ashwagandha in different ways, so you are bound to see different lengths for how long for Ashwagandha to work when using different products.

Ashwagandha can start working within 4-12 weeks. Studies measuring the effectiveness of Ashwagandha for anxiety have shown decreased stress levels after 4 week, but the effectiveness was even more pronounced after 8 weeks [4].

You’ll likely need to take for a least a month to see any noticeable results and even longer to reach optimal results. Of course, the speed and effectiveness will depend on the dosage and your particular body.

What is the best Ashwagandha Supplement?

First, you’ll need to decide whether you want to take an extract or full-root powder. Ashwagandha extracts are a synthesized form of the herb made from the root or leaf. In other words, it’s potent form (than the plant itself).

KSM-66 is the best Ashwagandha extract and also the most popular. It is known for its safe process to extract the beneficial elements with milk, just as done in Indian tradition. This extract has been widely tested and has been used in scientific studies backing its effectiveness. This process has been around for over 15 years!

Here’s our favorite KSM-66 Ashwagandha Extract:

True Veda KSM-66 Ashwagandha 300 mg

Sensoril is another well known extract you can trust. If you see Sensoril or KSM-66 on the label, you can expect a high quality,  standardized extract.

Sensoril Ashwagandha is another great extract option that’s also clinically proven. Here’s our favorite Sensoril Ashwagandha Extract:

Nootropics Depot Sensoril Ashwagandha Capsules

Ashwagandha is also available in it’s full form, as ground root powder. The root powder has a bitter taste but it is traditionally consumed as a tea with milk. The root powder can lead to the same benefits, but it doesn’t offer the same potency as an extract. For instance, 500mg of root powder will not provide the same benefits of 500mg of an Ashwagandha extract.

What Dose Should I Take for Anxiety?

Before starting anything, consult with your doctor if you are taking medication, or if any of the warnings (at the end of this post) apply to you.

Start with a minimal dose to see how your body reacts. If well tolerated, you can increase the Ashwagandha dosage after a few weeks to enhance the results. Most studies measuring the effectiveness of Ashwagandha for anxiety used doses ranging from 200-600mg of high concentration extract per day.

As you would expect, when the dose increased, the results increased as well. You’ll find that most supplements will have a serving size similar to the dosage range above. This is always a good gauge since not all supplements are created equal.

Where Can I Buy Ashwagandha?

Most health inspired grocery store chains, such as Sprouts and Whole Foods carry ashwagandha.

There are many ashwagandha supplements options online, many with stellar reviews. You can also buy the root powder by the ounce to mix with food, milk, or your favorite smoothie.

Ashwagandha supplements with root powder and ashwagandha extracts are the most common form. They often range from 200 mg to 1,000 mg of ashwagandha root per serving, though the potency and effectiveness will vary from product to product. Learn more about our favorite Ashwagandha extracts here.

Other supplements such as Calm Now, mix ashwagandha with B-vitamins and other herbs to reduce stress and anxiety. Read our Calm Now review here.

How long does Ashwagandha last?

Does it lose its potency over time? Here’s what we found.

How Long Does Ashwagandha Last in the Refrigerator?

Ashwagandha powder, capsules, and tea are all shelf–stable and can be stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator. You can store them for up to 2 years before they expire.

How Long Does Ashwagandha Last in Room Temperature?

If you store ashwagandha at room temperature, it can last anywhere from 1 month to 2 years depending on the product and how it’s stored. Herbal supplements are generally more stable than dried herbs, which means they should last longer than leaf powders.

But keep in mind that this will depend on the product you buy as well as how you store it! Also note that some products have an expiration date on them, so make sure you check that out before you buy!

Be sure to keep your herbal supplements away from direct sunlight and moisture! These things may affect their potency over time as well! If you plan on using herbal supplements for a long time or want to get the most out of them before they expire, consider storing them in a cool, dark place like a cupboard or pantry where there’s less sunlight and moisture exposure!

What is the best time to take Ashwagandha for anxiety?

There are many different ways you can use this herb, but the most common way is to take it in capsule form before bed. Because ashwagandha has a calming effect on the body, it’s can also be taken in the morning to prepare for a stressful day.

There are some people who claim that taking ashwagandha at night helps them fall asleep faster (a few minutes) and sleep better. However, this may be because they’re already relaxed before taking the herb.

Warnings

Pregnancy concerns: Ashwagandha is not safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women. It has abortifacient properties which may lead to miscarriage. While concerns are based on very high doses, it’s not worth the risk.

Hyperthyroidism: According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, ashwagandha may intensify hyperthyroidism. Many have differing viewpoints, but it’s fair to say, be careful if you have hyperthyroidism.

Medications: Ashwagandha is a mild central nervous system depressant, so it may interact with alcohol, anti-anxiety drugs or sedatives. If you are under treatment for any medical or psychiatric problems or take any prescription medications, talk with your doctor before taking ashwagandha.

Resources

[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23439798

[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21407960

[3] https://blog.priceplow.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/withania_review.pdf

[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5871210/

When in doubt, always listen to your body (and Doctor).