The benefits of ashwagandha have been known in ayurvedic medicine for centuries. But how can it help you get to sleep?

What is ashwagandha?Ashwagandha is a potent plant extract that can be taken for stress support. It grows as a shrub mostly in Africa, the Middle East, India and China, with yellow flowers and red berries that resemble raspberries. As an adaptogenic herb, one of the benefits of ashwagandha is that it can help you deal with occasional stress. In Ayurvedic, ashwagandha is referred to as “Indian ginseng” and has been used for 5,000 years for relieving stress and helping calm the mind and body.1

Ashwagandha supplements offer a natural way to relieve stress and anxiety to help you sleep.

Close up shot of Ashwagandha (winter cherry) plant.

Can ashwagandha help me relax?

Ashwagandha supplements, part of the supplement class called adaptogens, work to counteract the harmful effects of stress in the body by lowering levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. It has a wide variety of other benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties, all of which can reduce stress. Ashwagandha has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years to help soothe the stress of sleeplessness, irritability, and the inability to concentrate.

Does ashwagandha relieve stress and anxiety?

Researchers have studied the effectiveness of ashwagandha with impressive results. In one study, published in the Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine2, participants given ashwagandha reported lower levels of stress and anxiety and higher overall well-being. Participants also reported having an easier time sleeping. Another study of chronically stressed adults showed significant evidence that Ashwagandha may reduce cortisol levels without adverse side effects.3 In yet another study, 88 percent of adults given ashwagandha over a six-week period reported feeling less anxious.4 Modern science has confirmed what cultures around the world have known for centuries: Ashwagandha can help you relax and de-stress so that you can put your mind at ease before bedtime.

When should I take ashwagandha?

You may consider taking ashwagandha when you have stress and anxiety that is interfering with your ability to relax and sleep.

Is ashwagandha safe?

Ashwagandha is an herbal supplement that is safe for most people. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions on the bottle. If you have any concerns, consult your doctor before starting to take ashwagandha. If you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or nursing, taking ashwagandha is not advised.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease