Ashwagandha has become a popular herbal supplement in the UK, often taken for its potential to support stress, sleep, energy, and overall balance. While most modern supplements provide smaller amounts of concentrated extracts, some people wonder what happens if they take 1g of ashwagandha in a day. Understanding the effects of this amount requires looking at the difference between traditional use, modern extracts, and how the body responds to adaptogens.

Want to learn more about how ashwagandha works and what to expect? Visit our Ashwagandha Guidance Hub where we answer the most common questions and explore the science behind this ancient herb.

Traditional use and higher amounts

In Ayurveda, ashwagandha was often consumed as a powdered root mixed into milk or honey. The traditional doses were usually measured in grams, and it was not unusual for people to take around 1g or even more in this form each day. These larger amounts of raw powder were thought to act as a rejuvenating tonic, supporting strength, stamina, and calmness over time. When people talk about taking 1g of ashwagandha, they are often thinking of this more traditional approach.

Modern extracts and strength

Most UK supplements do not use raw root powder alone. Instead, they contain concentrated extracts that are standardised to provide a consistent level of active compounds called withanolides. Because of this, even smaller amounts, such as 300mg to 600mg, can deliver effects similar to what might have required a gram or more of powdered root. This means that 1g of extract-based ashwagandha may actually provide quite a strong dose compared with traditional preparation.

Potential benefits of 1g per day

Taking 1g of ashwagandha, whether in powder or extract form, may enhance the benefits people usually associate with this herb. These may include better management of stress, improved sleep quality, steadier energy, and more balanced mood. Research suggests that ashwagandha can help regulate cortisol, the body’s main stress hormone, which in turn may improve resilience to daily challenges. It has also been studied for its potential role in supporting physical endurance and recovery, which could be more noticeable at slightly higher amounts.

Possible side effects

Although ashwagandha is generally well tolerated, larger amounts can sometimes cause side effects in sensitive individuals. These may include mild digestive discomfort, nausea, or drowsiness. While 1g is not considered excessively high, it is more than many supplement labels recommend, especially for extract-based products. For this reason, it is important to pay attention to your body and reduce the amount if you notice any unwanted effects.

Who should be cautious

Ashwagandha may not be suitable for everyone, regardless of the amount taken. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid it, as should people with certain medical conditions such as thyroid disorders or autoimmune conditions unless advised by a healthcare professional. Those taking prescription medicines should also check for possible interactions before using larger amounts like 1g per day.

Consistency and gradual use

Taking 1g of ashwagandha is unlikely to bring immediate results. Like other adaptogens, its effects are usually gradual and build with consistent daily use. For some, the benefits of stress relief and improved sleep may be noticed within a few weeks, while others may take longer. The key is not only the amount but also the regularity with which it is taken.

A balanced approach

So, what does taking 1g of ashwagandha do? For most people, it can provide supportive benefits for stress, sleep, energy, and overall wellbeing. However, whether this is the right amount depends on the form of ashwagandha used and the individual’s response. In many cases, smaller amounts are just as effective when using concentrated extracts. The best approach is to start with a moderate dose, pay attention to how your body reacts, and adjust if needed.

If you would like a simple and enjoyable way to take ashwagandha each day, our ashwagandha gummies provide a convenient option. They are tasty, easy to take, and designed to support calm and balance naturally.