Are you looking to take your health and wellness to the next level? Well, have you considered combining the power of Ashwagandha and 5-HTP?
It may sound like too much of a mouthful, but trust me, these two natural supplements can work wonders when taken together.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. “What in the world are Ashwagandha and 5-HTP?”
Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered. Keep reading and find out how these two substances can improve your mental state.
Can You Safely Take Ashwagandha and 5-HTP Together?
Most healthy adults can safely take ashwagandha and 5-HTP together, provided that they follow the recommended dosages.
Ashwagandha and 5-HTP may independently interact with certain medications or medical conditions. 5-HTP is not recommended to patients who are taking antidepressant medications, especially those that target serotonin secretion.
The general opinion is that combining 5-HTP and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) could lead to a dangerous increase in serotonin levels, albeit more and more studies are showing the opposite. (1)
Ashwagandha can interact with immunosuppressants and high-blood pressure medications.
However, their synergistic effect won’t cause any additional interactions, so it is deemed safe.
What are the Benefits of Taking Ashwagandha and 5-HTP Together?
Before moving on to the benefits, I want to briefly tell you what exactly Ashwagandha and 5-HTP are.
Ashwagandha is an herb that has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine. Meanwhile, 5-HTP is a naturally occurring amino acid that helps your body produce more serotonin, the so-called “feel-good” or “happy” neurotransmitter.
When taken separately, they offer unique benefits to the body. They may provide complementary benefits and support overall health and wellness when taken together.
Their shared benefits are:
- Reducing stress and anxiety
- Promoting healthy sleep
- Supporting brain function
It has been proven that 5-HTP can even reduce depression and apathy in Parkinson’s disease. (2) It can aid weight loss because it suppresses appetite.
Ashwagandha is especially popular among men because of its positive effect on male fertility, as well as for athletic performance improvement.
There are numerous other potential benefits, but unlike the ones I mentioned, they are vague at this moment in time. Some of the ongoing clinical trials might confirm or deny the allegations, especially regarding Ashwagandha, one of the fundamental herbs in India’s traditional system of medicine.
What is a Good Dosage for Ashwagandha and 5-HTP When Taken Together?
The recommended dosage for Ashwagandha and 5-HTP can vary depending on factors such as age, weight, and overall health status.
You can take from 200 to 1200 mg of Ashwagandha per day. To begin with, I would not take a dose higher than 500 mg maximum. (3)
5-HTP recommended dosage is lower, and starting with only 50 mg is preferred. After a few weeks, you can increase the dose to 300-500 mg daily.
The situation is the same when taking them together. Start with the lower end of the dosage range and gradually increase.
I must draw your attention to the fact that taking higher dosages of Ashwagandha and 5-HTP does not necessarily lead to better results and may increase the risk of side effects, so more isn’t always better.
When Should You Take Ashwagandha and 5-HTP?
Your personal preference and individual needs will dictate the timing.
Some people find it beneficial to take them together in the morning to start the day with a sense of calm and focus. Others may prefer to ingest them in the evening to promote relaxation and a better night’s sleep. Another popular approach is using Ashwagandha and 5-HTP separately in different parts of the day to make the most of them.
Ultimately, finding a routine that works best for you and your body is essential.
Do Ashwagandha and 5-HTP Have Any Side Effects?
Ashwagandha and 5-HTP are not known for side effects, whether taken together or separately. They both appear safe, although a long-term study on safety is needed.
Mild side effects such as drowsiness, stomach pain, nausea, and diarrhea may appear, but they should not last long. You must stop taking these supplements and consult a healthcare professional if you experience any adverse reactions.
Even though the connection between taking 5-HTP and developing eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome (EMS) was observed, there is no specific corroboration for this. (4)
How Long Does it Take for Ashwagandha and 5-HTP to Start Working?
Your metabolism will have a definitive answer to how long it takes for ashwagandha and 5-HTP to start working. Some people may notice a difference in their mood and stress levels within a few days of taking these supplements, while others must be more patient.
Usually, 5-HTP will start working a bit faster, but generally, it may take several weeks of consistent use before you observe the full spectrum of benefits. Keep in mind that the effects are cumulative, meaning consistent use is paramount.
Do You Need to Cycle on and Off Ashwagandha and 5-HTP?
A consensus has yet to be reached on whether it is necessary to cycle on and off Ashwagandha and 5-HTP. Scientists proved Ashwagandha’s safety over eight weeks. (5) Albeit it is believed to be the same during long-term consumption, we still lack clinical evidence.
Some people may choose to take them consistently every day, while others may prefer to take breaks periodically to avoid building up a tolerance. Existing knowledge does not suggest you can build up a tolerance to either of those two substances.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a natural way to combat the most prevalent mental health disorders – depression and anxiety, or just reduce everyday stress, combining Ashwagandha and 5-HTP could be a good option.
Give it a try and see results since there is no one-size-fits-all solution.
Remember, your mental health is as important as your physical health. So, take the time to prioritize your well-being. Taking this supplement is one step that complements physical activity and talking to a psychotherapist.
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