Ashwagandha and brain fog In one randomized study, ashwagandha root extract provided both immediate and longer-term improvements in memory, attention span, and information processing speed. Another study found full-spectrum ashwagandha root extract to be effective in promoting mental balance in adults.
Ashwagandha works to support your body's innate stress management system, ultimately helping to relieve stress and ease those negative effects that can come from it, including feelings of mental fatigue and brain fog.
Preliminary research also suggests a potential effect of ashwagandha on enhancing memory and mental clarity (1). In a pilot study conducted on 50 adults with mild cognitive impairments, 600mg of daily ashwagandha supplementation significantly improved general memory, attention, and information-processing speed (1).
Modern science has found that ashwagandha promotes healthy functioning of the brain. Extracts of ashwagandha may protect the brain from damage caused by a wide range of toxins, injuries, and stroke. Oral intake improves cognitive performance in healthy adults and in those with signs of cognitive decline.
Laboratory studies have shown that ashwagandha may benefit cognitive function by promoting neuronal growth and protecting neurons from damage and oxidative stress [4-7], but these benefits have not been confirmed in humans.
Unlike many other supplements and medications, ashwagandha's benefits are not immediate. It can take days to weeks before you begin to notice its effects.
Improves Cognitive Function
For focus, concentration, and memory, Ashwagandha has been shown in many studies to enhance all aspects of cognitive function.
Ashwagandha is a medicinal herb that may offer several health benefits, such as improved blood sugar, inflammation, mood, memory, stress and anxiety, as well as a boost in muscle strength and fertility. Dosages vary depending on your needs, but 250–500 mg per day for at least one month seem effective.
Ashwagandha has been used in medical practices like Aryuveda, a medical system that originated in India over 3,000 years ago, to fight stress, boost endurance, and promote a general sense of calm. While science is limited, modern studies reinforce ashwagandha's potential to reduce stress and anxiety in adults.
Positive effects on mood and stress relief
This herb has positive effects on stress, anxiety and mood. Multiple studies of the plant have shown that potent extracts of Ashwagandha produce anxiety-relieving effects that are as powerful as many commonly used anti-depressants, without any side effects.
In Ayurvedic medicine, ashwagandha is most commonly known for its mood-lifting effects. Scientific research supports its potential to treat clinical depressive disorders. Studies show that its effects are comparable to common prescription antidepressants.
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) Root
Valerian is a go-to herb for normalizing the nervous system as it offers neuroprotective, anxiolytic, and antidepressant action.
A deficiency in several nutrients could potentially contribute to brain fog, including vitamin D, vitamin B12, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids. Low levels of magnesium, vitamin C, and choline may also cause brain fog, but more research is needed.
Ashwagandha can take anywhere from 2-3 days to several weeks to work. Current research suggests it may take ten or more weeks to achieve maximum benefits related to stress and anxiety reduction [5].
If you're feeling more calm and relaxed, that's a good sign that the ashwagandha is working. You may also notice an improvement in your sleep quality. If you're sleeping better and feeling more rested, that's another sign that the ashwagandha is doing its job.
Ashwagandha Supplements for Sleep
It changed my life. The first day after taking them, I was awake at 8AM and up at it. Due to my routine and habit, I even tried to lay back down for a nap and actually ended up getting up because I didn't need the sleep. The next day, I went to sleep at 11PM and was up at 5AM.
A. Yes, taking ashwagandha daily is safe, but people should never take it beyond the recommended doses or periods.
But when is the best time of day to take ashwagandha? To see the best results, most research recommends also taking Ashwagandha in the morning. Taking it twice a day can help your body maintain equilibrium in your adrenal system. You can buy ashwagandha in capsule form or as a powder to mix with coffee or tea.
Ashwagandha is an evergreen shrub with a long list of benefits and the herb is often used for its medicinal qualities. The disadvantages of ashwaganda include possible liver damage, drowsiness, nausea and vomiting, and potential aggravation of autoimmunity.
When used in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle, ashwagandha can begin to positively impact the body within two weeks. However, depending on your individual health, it may take a few months to experience or even notice big changes.
Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Some clinical research shows that a combination herbal product containing ashwagandha may improve attention and impulse control in children with ADHD.
Ashwagandha is typically taken in capsule or tablet form. You can take it with food or without, and you can take it at any time of day. One of the most popular times to take Ashwagandha is a few hours before bed. This is because the supplement has been shown to help promote better sleep quality.