Despite its recent rise in popularity within western culture, Ashwagandha has been around for thousands of years. Traditional Indian medicine incorporated the herb, along with many others into its collection of remedies with perceived natural healing properties. Many people have turned to ashwagandha for sleep.

Regular research has been carried out to test the impact of Ashwagandha on a variety of different biological functions. Some of them include impact for treating disorders such as diabetes, cancer, inflammation, neurological processes, stress, immune system & cardiovascular function.

Let’s look in more detail.

Ashwagandha for Sleep

Ashwagandha, also known as “Indian Ginseng” is scientifically identified as Withania Somnifera. It is a plant that is native to India & Indian subcontinent regions. The shrub of the plant is a blend between light grey and light green in color.

It is the powerful roots of the plant that have had the attention of humans for over 3000 years. These roots have a strong aroma, locally defined as “the smell of a horse”. This could be considered a more extreme opinion!

Ashwagandha is an adaptogen, this means that it contains properties that may assist the body with adapting to various form of stress. The bioactive compounds within have led to common research to test its impact on brain function, immunity & the nervous system.

Some popular studies suggest ashwagandha may assist with the treatment of insomnia. This article particularly focuses on the effect of Ashwagandha for sleep quality.

DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION & STUDIES LINKED IN THIS ARTICLE SHOULD NOT BE USED FOR MEDICAL ADVICE OR AS SUGGESTED TREATMENT OF ANY ILLNESS. YOU SHOULD ALWAYS CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR FOR CLEAR DIRECTION ON TREATMENT FOR ANY ILLNESS OR HEALTH DISCOMFORT.

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Where is Ashwagandha from?

Ashwagandha has historically been sourced & cultivated within Indian subcontinent regions. Outside of India it has been found to be native in the middle east & some temperate regions of Africa. Other Asian countries such as China, Sri Lanka & Nepal are also popular for cultivation.

Interestingly, the shrub belongs to the same family as eggplants & tomatoes, where they can mature into orange-coloured berries. It is understood that the shrub does not offer the same therapeutic impact that the roots have to offer.

Uses

As we have alluded to already, Ashwagandha is primarily used for its potential health properties. Not so much for its’ flavour. Some research proposes that it’s use may date back as far as 6000BC.

It is usually ground & extracted into a powder that can be used in a variety of different ways. It had traditionally been used as tea, as adding it to hot water or hot milk is seen as great night cap. Historically, adding Ashwagandha to hot milk was a popular tonic for children.

NOTE: Do not give your children any Ashwagandha supplements before consulting the child’s doctor.

Outside of this, Ashwagandha powder is most often found as a supplement, usually in a capsule.

Ashwagandha for Sleep

To reiterate, the real name for Ashwagandha is Withania Somnifera. The Latin word Somnifera stands for “sleep-inducing”. This offers some insight into how the plant has traditionally been viewed.

Whilst there are studies carried out for many potential benefits, one of the most researched is Ashwagandha for sleep. One study found that Ashwagandha has been useful for managing insomnia, regardless of health condition & age. On top of this, another study concluded that regular supplementation contributes to mental alertness after waking up.

Feedback from most studies claim improvements to sleep & improved cognition are closely linked to regular supplementation. This suggests that supplementation needs to be regular & consistent before any change occurs.

Outside of being a potential sleep aid, there are many studies researching the effects of Ashwagandha on stress. Whilst studies have shown potential for positive treatment against stress induced diseases like ageing, diabetes, arthritis & hypertension, scientific backing remains inconclusive.

Potential Side Effects

Like any other supplement, it’s important to consult your doctor before consumption. Some products may have adverse effects on any underlying illnesses. We strongly advise that ashwagandha supplements are not taken during pregnancy.

Ensure that you understand reasonable dosage limits for any supplement you are consuming. Some noted side effects of Ashwagandha may include:

• Stomach irritation & diarrhoea
• Nausea
• Drowsiness
• Heightened body temperature

To avoid these side effects, please follow the dosage directions issued by your Ashwagandha manufacturer.

How you can use Ashwagandha for Sleep

Ashwagandha powder can have a potent flavour in high quantities. This is often the reason that most Ashwagandha products come in capsule form.

We’ve combatted this by combining the goodness of Ashwagandha, along with other high quality ingredients with delicious cocoa. Who doesn't love Cocoa?

Try our Calming Cocoa Blend here.

We recommend adding a 3ml scoop to hot milk or hot water for a wellness infused hot chocolate. Why not spice it up with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top? Or satisfy your sweet tooth with a dash of honey.

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