Why limit ashwagandha use to three months?

Written by
Robert Kelly
Reviewed by
Prof. William Dalton, Ph.D.Using ashwagandha for three-month periods mitigates the risk of adrenal fatigue and alterations in liver enzymes. If used for extended periods, it may lessen natural stress response abilities. Cycling provides an opportunity for your body to preserve sensitivity to the adaptogens. It also allows for medical supervision for slight physiologic changes with uninterrupted usage.
Adrenal Health
- Prevents HPA axis desensitization
- Avoids cortisol production dependency
- Maintains natural stress response
Liver Protection
- Reduces liver enzyme elevation risk
- Prevents potential medication metabolism interference
- Minimizes supplement accumulation effects
Effectiveness Maintenance
- Prevents tolerance development
- Preserves receptor sensitivity
- Ensures consistent benefit levels
Adrenal adaptation takes careful management; using it for more than 90 days in a row can suppress your body's natural cortisol responsiveness. It is dependent rather than resilient. Cycling preserves the effectiveness of the herb for real adaptation to the stressor. It prevents the body from becoming dependent on a resource that is external to itself.
cycling protocols for safe supplementation. Supplement with ashwagandha for 8-12 weeks, followed by 2-4 weeks off. This preserves the effectiveness of benefits while avoiding adaptation. Get blood tests at the end of the break to check for normal adrenal and liver function. Wait until clearance is confirmed before using again.
Medical monitoring in longer cycles is important. Do liver enzyme tests every 60 days. Monitor salivary cortisol levels. Monitor changes in resting heart rate and blood pressure. Report any episodes of fatigue or digestive issues to your doctor immediately.
Consider using different adaptogens in place of a traditional cycling break. Rhodiola seems to enhance energy levels without impacting adrenal function. Holy basil has somewhat similar benefits for stress relief. These are provided to us as adjuvants, while still acting as long-lasting agents, when you cycle ashwagandha (or reintroduce it) back in.
Read the full article: 8 Benefits Ashwagandha Root You Need to Know