Best ashwagandha supplement for stress & sleep: top 10+ for 2024

The best ashwagandha should be both effective and safe.

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Ludwik Jelonek
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Ludwik Jelonek is the author of more than 2,500 texts published on leading portals. His content has found its way into services such as Ostrovit and Kobieta Onet. At Natu.Care, Ludwik educates people in the most important area of life - health.

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Ilona Bush
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Ilona Krzak obtained her Master of Pharmacy degree from the Medical University of Wrocław. She did her internship in a hospital pharmacy and in the pharmaceutical industry. She is currently working in the profession and also runs an educational profile on Instagram: @pani_z_apteki

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Emilia Moskal specialises in medical and psychological texts, including content for medical entities. She is a fan of simple language and reader-friendly communication. At Natu.Care, she writes educational articles.

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Best ashwagandha supplement for stress & sleep: top 10+ for 2024
28 August, 2024
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The best ashwagandha is effective, safe and also quite affordable. These are the three most important aspects to consider when buying a supplement. Easy to say, harder to do -you've probably thought.

That's why, together with MA Pharmacy, we will suggest you the best ashwagandha products for 2024.

From this article you will learn:

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  • Which ashwgandha is best.
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  • Who should consider using it.
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  • What to look for when choosing ashwagandha.
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See also:

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Ashwagandha - which is the best?

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The best ashwagandha on the market is Naturell Ashwagandha. It is distinguished by a standardised extract of ashwagandha leaves and root and a 7% content of vitanolides. This makes Naturell Ashwagandha not only effective, but also safe for the body. Also on the plus side is the relatively low price of the product.

Best ashwgandha - ranking

 

Who should consider using ashwagandha?

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Supplementation with ashwagandha - an herb used in Ayurveda - should be considered by those looking for natural solutions to relieve stress, as well as improve mental and physical wellbeing. It can be beneficial for those experiencing constant fatigue, struggling with sleep or concentration problems.

Best ashwgandha - for whom?

  • People experiencing stress and anxiety. Ashwagandha is known for its adaptogenic effects, meaning it helps the body cope with stress. It reduces levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, which helps to support mood and improve overall wellbeing.
  • People with sleep problems. Research suggests that ashwagandha may help improve sleep quality and fight insomnia. It has calming properties that may promote deep, healthy sleep.
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  • People having trouble concentrating and remembering. Ashwagandha's effects on cortisol levels may also help improve concentration and memory, which are often affected by stress.
  • People experiencing chronic fatigue. Ashwagandha helps the body adapt to stressful situations. Adaptogens can improve overall energy and stamina, helping to combat feelings of chronic fatigue.

What to look for when choosing an ashwagandha supplement?

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When choosing an ashwagandha supplement, keep in mind a few key aspects that determine the quality and effectiveness of the product. First and foremost, pay attention to the standardisation of the supplement. It ensures that the same amount of the active ingredient is present in each batch of the product.

In the case of ashwagandha, the most important are the vitanolides, which are the main active ingredient of this plant. A quality product should contain at least 2.5 per cent vitanolides.

As for ashwagandha, this is the most important active ingredient.

Another important factor is the DER (Drug Extract Ratio), which tells us how much plant material was used to produce one part of the extract obtained. Some brands may use a large amount of raw material and then dilute the extract, resulting in fewer active ingredients in the final product. The higher the DER ratio, the better the quality of the supplement.

Also remember to always choose products from reputable manufacturers who guarantee the purity and quality of their supplements. Read the product label and make sure it contains all the information listed above - this will show that the manufacturer is fully transparent and has a reliable approach to the quality of their supplements.

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Specially important are quality certificates. Among others, those that demonstrate good manufacturing practice.
Ilona Krzak.

Ilona Krzak Master of Pharmacy

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Which form of ashwagandha is best?

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The best form of ashwagandha depends on individual preference. It is therefore important to choose the form that is most convenient and effective for you. The most popular forms are tablets, powder, capsules and decoction. What are the characteristics of these solutions?

Position

What is characterised by?

Tablets

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Ashwagandha tablets are easy to use and can also be divided if required. They can also be easily carried with you and consumed anywhere. The downside for some people, however, may be swallowing the tablets, which are sometimes quite large.

Powder

Ashwagandha powder has the advantage of being very versatile - it can be added to a variety of foods or drinks. This allows you to adjust the dosage individually. However, storage can be quite difficult. Moreover, the powder involves the need to portion it yourself.

Capsules

Capsules are convenient to use, easy to store and dose. Therefore, they are a good alternative for people who are not fond of the specific taste of ashwagandha.

Vegetable

An ashwagandha decoction is good for those who prefer natural methods of preparing herbs. However, it requires more time and skill than other methods. Instead, it provides a unique opportunity to customise the taste and intensity of the drink.

Ashwagandha - dosage

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Ashwagandha dosage depends on the form in which it is consumed and individual goals and needs. It is recommended that 300 to 800 mg of the extract standardised to 5-10% vitanolides be taken daily. This is the most commonly used and researched amount that shows beneficial health effects.

If you prefer to consume the powdered root, the recommended dose is 3 to 6 grams per day. It can be added to drinks or foods. For those who prefer to consume ashwagandha in tea form, a good amount is in turn 1 to 2 tea spoons of the root per day.

If you prefer to consume ashwagandha in tea form, a good amount is 1 to 2 tea spoons of the root per day.

Remember, however, that each dose should be adjusted individually, and if in any doubt, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

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About 2.5% vitanolides is the absolute minimum. Even so, the dose also depends on the portion of ashwagandha used.
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Ilona Krzak.

Ilona Krzak Master of Pharmacy

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After how long will you see the effects of ashwagandha?

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The time after which you may see effects of ashwagandha use, may vary from person to person. This is related to individual body response, supplement dosage and lifestyle.

Generally, many studies suggest that noticeable changes can occur after about four to 12 weeks of regular use. Effects such as improved mood, reduced stress levels and improved sleep quality start to become noticeable when supplementation becomes part of a daily routine.

Contraindications to the use of ashwaghanda

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Although ashwagandha is a natural supplement known for its many health benefits, there are some contraindications and limitations that should be considered before starting its use. People with certain medical conditions or those taking certain medications should consult their doctor before taking ashwagandha.

Who should not use ashwaghanda:

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  • underage,
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  • pregnant and breastfeeding women,
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  • cancer patients,
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  • patients with the following diseases: autoimmune, thyroid, multiple sclerosis, type I diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis,
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  • persons with blood clotting disorders, as well as diseases of the digestive system or liver.

Ashwagandha - side effects

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Ashwagandha is generally well tolerated, however some people may experience side effects. The most common side effects that can occur after taking ashwagandha are digestive problems such as nausea, diarrhoea or heartburn. This may be due to individual sensitivity to this plant.

Rarely, more serious side effects such as dizziness, fatigue or drowsiness may occur. Some experts also suggest that over-consumption of ashwagandha may affect blood sugar levels and blood pressure, so people with diabetes or low blood pressure should be cautious about supplementation.

The following is a summary of the effects of ashwagandha.

See also:

Summary

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  • The best ashwagandha on the market is Naturell's Ashwagandha, due to its effectiveness, safety and price.
  • Ashwagandha is indicated for those looking for a natural way to increase mental and physical fitness, relieve stress, improve sleep and concentration.
  • Ashwagandha is also recommended for those looking for a natural way to increase mental and physical fitness, relieve stress, improve sleep and concentration.
  • When choosing an ashwagandha supplement, it is worth considering aspects such as the standardisation of the supplement (high vitanolides content), the DER (amount of raw material used per amount of extract) and the manufacturer's reputation.
  • The best form of ashwagandha to take (tablets, powder, capsules, decoction) is the one that will be most convenient for you.
  • The dosage of ashwagandha depends on the form of ingestion and individual needs.
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  • Significant effects of ashwagandha can be seen after 4-12 weeks of regular use.
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  • Ashwagandha is contraindicated for minors, pregnant or breastfeeding women, patients with cancer, autoimmune diseases, type I diabetes, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis or gastrointestinal ailments.
  • Potential side effects of ashwagandha use include digestive problems, less common dizziness, fatigue, drowsiness, effects on blood sugar levels and blood pressure.

FAQ

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. What are the potential interactions of ashwagandha with other drugs? .

Ashwagandha may interact with some medications, including benzodiazepines, antiepileptics and antihypertensive agents. It may also exacerbate hypoglycaemia in people taking diabetes medication.

. Is ashwagandha safe for people with thyroid disease? .

People with thyroid disease, particularly Hashimoto's disease, should be cautious about using Ashwagandha as it may modulate thyroid activity.

. Can I consume ashwagandha while breastfeeding? .

It is not recommended that ashwagandha be consumed by women who are breastfeeding. There is a lack of solid research on this topic, so always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting supplementation.

. Can ashwagandha help treat depression? .

Ashwagandha is a known adaptogen and may help manage stress and improve mood. Several studies have shown that it can support the alleviation of depressive symptoms. Remember, however, that it is not a substitute for professional psychological or psychiatric help. If you are undergoing such treatment, always consult your specialist about supplementation.

. What time of day should I take Ashwagandha? .

There are no specific guidelines for the ideal time of day to consume ashwagandha. Each person may react differently to the supplement, so it is worth trying different times of day and seeing which works best for you.

. Can children take Ashwagandha? .

Ashwagandha is not usually recommended for children, as there is not yet sufficient research on its safety and effectiveness in this age group. Always consult your paediatrician before giving any supplement to your child.

. Can I combine Ashwagandha supplementation with other supplements? .

Yes, Ashwagandha can be combined with other supplements. However, always consult your doctor or pharmacist if you plan to combine supplements to be sure they are safe and effective together.

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Sources

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. See all .

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Ludwik Jelonek - Tekst

Natu.Care Editor

Ludwik Jelonek

Ludwik Jelonek is the author of more than 2,500 texts published on leading portals. His content has found its way into services such as Ostrovit and Kobieta Onet. At Natu.Care, Ludwik educates people in the most important area of life - health.

Ilona Bush - Recenzja

Master of Pharmacy

Ilona Bush
Verified by an expert

Ilona Krzak obtained her Master of Pharmacy degree from the Medical University of Wrocław. She did her internship in a hospital pharmacy and in the pharmaceutical industry. She is currently working in the profession and also runs an educational profile on Instagram: @pani_z_apteki

Bart Turczynski - Redakcja

Editor-in-Chief

Bart Turczynski

Bart Turczynski is the editor-in-chief of Natu.Care. He is responsible for the quality of the content created on Natu.Care, among others, and ensures that all articles are based on sound scientific research and consulted with industry specialists.

Emilia Moskal - Fact-checking

Natu.Care Editor

Emilia Moskal

Emilia Moskal specialises in medical and psychological texts, including content for medical entities. She is a fan of simple language and reader-friendly communication. At Natu.Care, she writes educational articles.

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