Ashwagandha for Stress and Sleep: Does It Really Work? (My Experience)
Many people struggle with stress and poor sleep, especially in today’s busy world. I was dealing with the same issues, feeling overwhelmed during the day and unable to sleep at night for almost a year.
That’s when I came across ashwagandha, a natural supplement that is often recommended for reducing stress and improving sleep. But does it really work?
In this article, I’ll share my personal experience with ashwagandha, the benefits, possible side effects, and whether it’s actually worth trying.
What is ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha is a frequently used herb in Ayurvedic medicine, the traditional medical system in India. It has a variety of uses because of its many properties. It is classified as an adaptogen, as it increases the ability of the body to tolerate, adapt to, and survive under stress. It helps the body find balance.
Common uses and benefits
Stress and anxiety
People often take ashwagandha to reduce stress and anxiety. It may lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone). The adrenal glands produce hormones like cortisol and adrenaline.
Sleep quality
Ashwagandha helps improve sleep. This is partly linked to stress, because you sleep better when you are relaxed and don’t constantly worry about things in your life.
Concentration – cognitive function
When you sleep better, your brain will also function better. You will have less brain fog during the day. So ashwagandha indirectly helps with concentration.
Because it’s an adaptogen, it can also support energy levels by helping regulate hormones like adrenaline.
Iron
Ashwagandha is also relatively rich in iron. Many (young) women have iron deficiency, so this can help support iron levels in the body.
My experience
I was searching for something that could help me sleep, then I came across ashwagandha. I did some research but couldn’t find much clear information, and I was scared to use it because I saw on TikTok that it could shut your feelings down and make you emotionless.
So I tried every other alternative. I drank sleep tea, but I didn’t see any results. I tried many supplements like melatonin, magnesium, and sleeping pills with poppy extract. None of these worked.
I was going crazy because I couldn’t sleep for more than 9 months. At that point I didn’t care anymore, I just wanted to sleep. I took the risk and bought it.
Check the one I used here: https://amzn.to/4bYoXFY
After two weeks of using it, I slowly started to sleep better on some days. After a month, I noticed that I stressed way less. Small things became less relevant to me.
Because of my lower stress levels, I could think more clearly and focus on important things. Knowing that I spent my day in a useful way gave me peace again and helped me sleep better and deeper.
Now, almost a year later, I don’t use it every day anymore and I still see the difference it made in my life. I now only use it during busy periods to regulate my stress levels so my sleep doesn’t get worse again.
How to use
It’s recommended to start with a low amount of ashwagandha per day and slowly build up if needed. Start with 250–600 mg a day. I started with 500 mg a day.
If you use it for sleep, it’s best to take it in the evening, about 1–2 hours before going to bed.
Possible side effects
Some people experience losing their feelings while taking ashwagandha, and even after stopping. It’s important to keep in mind that everybody reacts differently.
Personally, I didn’t experience it that strongly. There were a few moments where I noticed I reacted less dramatically to something funny or shocking, but it wasn’t a big deal. It didn’t bother me, it was more of a realization.
Nightmares
Some people experience nightmares. I haven’t experienced this myself.
Warning
Don’t use it if you have hyperthyroidism.
If you have any other health issues, make sure you consult your doctor before use.
Even if you are healthy, do your own research before using supplements or vitamins.
Disclaimer
This article contains affiliate links. If you buy through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
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