How Long After Taking Ashwagandha Can You Drink Alcohol?

Can I drink alcohol after having ashwagandha pills

Takeaways – In general, it’s not recommended to mix ashwagandha with alcohol. If you plan to drink, save your use of ashwagandha for later use. Always speak with your healthcare provider before incorporating ashwagandha into your life.

But all in all, we recommend cutting down on alcohol to experience your optimal well-being. To help support and maintain your bodily health, discover Sunwink’s delicious, Sources:

: Ashwagandha and Alcohol: Can They Work Together?

Is ashwagandha hard on the liver

4. Conclusions – Identifying the main cause of liver damage in patients taking herbal preparations is extremely difficult, as they are often a mixture of different ingredients in which identifying a single causative factor can be problematic, It appears that legislation should be introduced for the mandatory testing of individual ingredients in herbal and dietary supplements for a large population.

1. This would eliminate the risk of using hazardous substances that could result in serious damage to the body.
2. These measures would significantly improve and shorten the diagnostic process, which, nowadays, is quite lengthy due to the lack of adequate data on substances in HDS (herbal and dietary supplements).

Ashwagandha should be more often considered as a potential liver-damaging factor, and doctors should pay attention to herbal supplements taken by patients when collecting anamnesis, A procedure that could optimize hospitalization is a liver biopsy to accurately determine the histopathologic type of liver injury.

However, it is unlikely that a liver biopsy would be performed because of the prolonged diagnostic process and the normalization of liver parameters after intensive drug treatment. The role of other substances or drugs, as well as the influence of polymorphisms of genes encoding drug-metabolizing enzymes, are not excluded.

At the same time, we would like to emphasize that the inadequate knowledge of the substances contained in HDS mixtures and their mode of action entails diagnostic problems at every step, including treatment. In view of several documented cases of liver damage caused by ashwagandha and the unknown metabolic mechanisms of substances contained in it, attention should be paid to patients reporting the use of these products in the past and presenting symptoms of liver damage.

Can ashwagandha work in 3 days?

Taking it in the morning – Unlike many other supplements and medications, ashwagandha’s benefits are not immediate. It can take days to weeks before you begin to notice its effects. For example, in one study including 60 people who took 300 mg of ashwagandha daily, it took upward of 10 weeks for them to observe its full effects on their sleep quality, compared with those in the control group ( 6 ).

• As such, choosing when to take ashwagandha largely depends on your personal preference.
• If you’re taking ashwagandha as part of your supplement routine for general health, you may wish to take it in the morning along with any other vitamins or supplements.
• That said, taking ashwagandha on an empty stomach may lead to mild stomach discomfort in some people.

Therefore, you may wish to take ashwagandha after breakfast or after eating a small snack. Alternatively, you can try adding ashwagandha to a smoothie, drink, or other meals.

Does ashwagandha hit right away?

Does Ashwagandha Work Immediately? – Ashwagandha does not begin working immediately. In fact, according to most studies, results typically appear within 4-12 weeks. Still, some may feel a difference before then. Of course, there are factors that contribute to how long before it begins working. Let’s take a closer look at what those are.

Can I take ashwagandha daily forever

03 /5 Side-effects of consuming too much Ashwagandha – Ashwagandha is a powerful herb and its overdose may lead to some serious side effects. It is always recommended to take Ashwagandha in an amount as prescribed by an Ayurvedic practitioner or mentioned on the package.

1. Taking more than the recommended amount may lead to stomach upset, diarrhoea, or vomiting.
2. Moreover, if taken for a long period, Ashwagandha may lead to liver problems.
3. Although it is safe for consumption for all, it is better to consult your doctor before taking it if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking immunosuppressants, sedatives, antidepressants, or other medications for chronic disease.

readmore

What not to do while taking ashwagandha

The root and berry of the ashwagandha plant are a traditional Ayurvedic medicine in India. Ashwagandha is used as a tonic (it is sometimes referred to as the “Indian ginseng”) to improve physical and mental health and to treat a number of specific conditions.

There’s some early evidence that ashwagandha affects the immune system and helps reduce swelling, from both arthritis and fluid retention. However, the practical benefits and risks for people aren’t clear yet. One study found that a compound containing ashwagandha helped relieve osteoarthritis symptoms,

It’s not clear which of the ingredients had the benefit since ashwaganda is traditionally used in combination with other herbs. Ashwagandha might help lower blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes and lower high cholesterol. Since ashwagandha has sedative effects, it could help ease anxiety and stress – in fact, human studies have indicated as much.

There is some preliminary research that it may help with epilepsy and memory loss, but these results are too early to say for sure if it could benefit humans. Some lab tests of cancer cells have found that ashwagandha might slow down their growth. Animal studies have found that ashwagandha could boost the effects of radiation therapy,

However, these are early results. It isn’t known if ashwagandha will help people with cancer, People use ashwagandha for other health conditions, including anemia, It is high in iron and has been shown to help increase hemoglobin levels, For many of the other purported uses, there isn’t evidence to support ashwaganda’s benefits.

Side effects. Since ashwagandha has not been well-studied, we don’t know all of its side effects. Large doses can cause upset stomach, diarrhea, and vomiting, Risks. Talk to a doctor before using ashwagandha if you have any health conditions, including cancer, diabetes, thyroid problems, bleeding disorders, ulcers, lupus, multiple sclerosis, or rheumatoid arthritis, Ashwagandha might interfere with thyroid tests. Stop taking ashwagandha two weeks before surgery. Interactions. If you take any drugs or supplements regularly, talk to your doctor before you start using ashwagandha supplements. They could interact with sedatives, blood thinners, thyroid supplements, drugs that suppress the immune system, and drugs for anxiety, high blood pressure, and diabetes, Ashwagandha might also interact with supplements that cause sleepiness, like St. John’s wort, kava, valerian, and others.

Given the risk of miscarriage, pregnant women should not use ashwagandha. Women who are breastfeeding should also not use the herb.

How much alcohol is in ashwagandha

ASHWAGANDHA, Organic tincture, Withania somnifera Actions: Adaptogenic, helps to resist stress, adrenal gland tonic, tiredness, burn-out, exhaustion, nervous tonic, insomnia Antioxidant, Immunomodulating, hepatoprotective, hormonal regulator. Medicinal Ingredient: Ashwagandha ( Withania somnifera ) fresh organic root (1:2) 500 mg/ml.

Nervous tonic (exhaustion) / Insomnia Adaptogenic / Provides help and support to the adrenal glands Helps to resist stress / Regenerative tonic (general weakness) Promotes memory and prevents mental fatigue * Anti-inflammatory, helps relieve chronic inflammation (colitis, arthritis, fibromyalgia, rheumatism and lupus)

Dosage: (adults) take in a little water 1ml (30 drops) 2 to 4 times a day. Cautions: Doses of 3g or more are contraindicated during pregnancy. Consumption of ashwagandha in combination with alcoholic beverages or any other medicinal product or natural health product with sedative effects is not recommended. * See Bio-Tonic and Rhodiola : ASHWAGANDHA, Organic tincture, Withania somnifera

Can you take supplements after drinking alcohol

Drowsiness, Central Nervous System (CNS) Depression – Use caution if combining alcohol with any over-the-counter herbal or dietary supplement that causes drowsiness. Review the label on the bottle and speak with your pharmacist or doctor if you plan on mixing an herbal dietary supplement and alcohol.

• 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan)
• California Poppy
• Catnip
• Chamomile
• Echinacea
• Gotu kola
• Jamaican dogwood
• Kava
• Melatonin
• St. John’s wort
• Skullcap
• Valerian
• Yerba mansa

Panax ginseng ( ginseng ) has been reported to reduced the blood concentrations of alcohol (ethanol) in one case report.

Why do I feel bad after taking ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha Has a Host of Benefits—and Some Sneaky Side Effects Getty/Design by Cristina Cianci Adaptogens are everywhere these days. These, occasionally found in, are said to help our bodies manage and adapt to stress. And, well, anything that can help us get a handle on stress definitely has our attention.

1. We wouldn’t be surprised to hear that many of you feel the same way.
2. One of the most popular adaptogens is an herb called ashwagandha—also known as Withania somnifera or Indian ginseng.
3. The root of ashwagandha is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine.
4. It can be taken in, including as a capsule, powder, tea, or tincture (check out our roundup of some of the best ashwagandha supplements ).

While ashwagandha has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for hundreds of years, it has also become popular outside Ayurveda for its many supposed health benefits. Ashwagandha is said to be able to help us in, from increasing energy levels to regulating our nervous system,, preventing or stopping stress-related, and even boosting libido.

One of the hallmarks of ashwagandha is its adaptogen and nervine properties,” says, a licensed acupuncturist and naturopathic doctor at Starting Point Acupuncture and Wellness. “It can help with balancing stress levels, boosting mood, and helping with mental clarity and focus. There are also studies that show ashwagandha can help with inflammation and reduce pain.” Read on for some benefits and side effects of ashwagandha.01 of 07 Adaptogens can help increase the body’s resistance to many different forms of stress, including physical, chemical, biological, and psychological stress.

“Adaptogens are intended to bring the body into balance and help cultivate and maintain resilience,” says, DO, who is a physician at Parsley Health. Ashwagandha in particular can help with balancing stress levels. “One of the hallmarks of ashwagandha is its adaptogen and nervine properties,” Heintze says.

One reason ashwagandha may help to reduce and balance stress is by reducing cortisol levels in the body. Cortisol is a the body’s primary stress hormone and plays a huge role in the body’s “fight or flight” response. When cortisol levels are elevated, you may experience symptoms like increased heart rate and blood pressure.

Many studies on adaptogens are small and limited in scope, so there isn’t a ton of clinical data to support the various potential benefits of adaptogens on the body. But Tolentino points out that adaptogens like ashwagandha have been used in forms of traditional medicine for hundreds of years.

“I personally recommend adaptogens in my practice when appropriate—if it’s something I think the patient would benefit from incorporating into their wellness routine, and it’s not contraindicated in any way,” she says.02 of 07 Having trouble focusing lately? Ashwagandha may help with, mental clarity, focus, and other related areas of cognition.

“Ashwagandha.has been used traditionally to improve memory and cognitive function, and it may also improve mood,” Tolentino says. “While we have limited clinical data on these benefits, ashwagandha may still be incorporated safely into your wellness routine if ashwagandha is determined to be clinically appropriate for you.” 03 of 07 Studies show that ashwagandha may decrease inflammation in the body.

• This is important because inflammation in the body plays a significant role in overall health, especially when the inflammation is chronic (read all about how inflammation can affect your health ).
• While these benefits may urge you to give ashwagandha a try, it’s important to be aware of some potential side effects, too.

Here are some that are important to know about.04 of 07 Nausea, stomach irritation, diarrhea, and other digestive issues are possible when taking ashwagandha. One positive here is that if you stick to the recommended dose, this may not be as much of a problem.

“Ashwagandha is a safe herb when used as directed,” Heintze says. “When taking doses exceeding recommendations or larger doses, it may cause digestive upset or nausea.” 05 of 07 Headaches and drowsiness are both potential side effects of ashwagandha. But these headaches—along with the digestive side effects—aren’t always long-lasting.

“Some of these side effects can be short-lived,” Tolentino explains.06 of 07 The experts we spoke with for this piece agree that taking ashwagandha during pregnancy is not recommended. If you have any questions about this, it’s important to consult with a medical professional.07 of 07 “Ashwagandha may be contraindicated if you take certain medications or are currently being treated for certain medical conditions, including autoimmune disorders or certain thyroid conditions,” Tolentino explains.

1. For that reason, it’s a great idea to check with your doctor before taking ashwagandha.
2. This is an important step that can help you make sure that ashwagandha won’t interfere with any medications you are taking, or present problems or heightened risks in relation to any other conditions you have.
3. Herbal medicines and supplements can be powerful,” Tolentino says.

“While ashwagandha is safe and well tolerated for most individuals, I do recommend discussing the usage of these treatments with your healthcare provider prior to incorporating them into your routine.” Ashwagandha may have some benefits for your health, from stress reduction to improved cognition.

• But as with many types of herbal supplements and pharmaceutical medications, it carries potential side effects as well, ranging from headaches to digestive issues.
• Remember that before taking ashwagandha, it’s important to check in with your doctor to make sure this supplement is the right choice for you.

FAQ

• Can you feel ashwagandha right away? “The key with ashwagandha and any other adaptogen is giving it time to work,” Kelsey Lorencz, RDN,, “It can take up to 60 days of regular consumption to see and feel the benefits.” Indeed, one study showed that participants saw a marked improvement in stress between weeks four and eight when taking ashwagandha.
• Can ashwagandha cause hair loss? Ashwagandha could potentially alleviate hair loss, actually—specifically if that hair loss is due to stress since ashwagandha can help reduce levels of cortisol in the body. There is no firm evidence that ashwagandha prevents or causes hair loss, however. LEARN MORE:
• Do you take ashwagandha at night or morning? You can take ashwagandha any time you’d like, morning or night. Taking the supplement before bed might help you sleep better while taking it in the morning could help curb your anxiety. Either way, it’s totally up to you.

Byrdie takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.

1. Chandrasekhar K, Kapoor J, Anishetty S., Indian J Psychol Med,2012;34(3):255-262. doi:10.4103/0253-7176.106022
2. Cay M, Ucar C, Senol D, et al., North Clin Istanb,2018;5(4):295-301. doi:10.14744/nci.2017.42103
3. Lopresti AL, Smith SJ, Malvi H, Kodgule R., Medicine (Baltimore),2019;98(37):e17186. doi:10.1097/MD.0000000000017186
4. Salve J, Pate S, Debnath K, Langade D., Cureus,11(12):e6466.

: Ashwagandha Has a Host of Benefits—and Some Sneaky Side Effects

Are there negatives to ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha is a small evergreen shrub that grows in India, the Middle East, and parts of Africa.

Its botanical name is Withania somnifera, and it is also known as Indian ginseng and winter cherry. The active chemical ingredients are known as withanolides. Ashwagandha is available in capsules and powders that can be mixed into soft foods (such as yogurt or oatmeal). The root, root powder, and standardized withanolide extracts are used in a wide range of doses. (Unlike with prescription drugs, there is often little—or conflicting—evidence about the best dose of supplements, including ashwagandha.) Some dietary supplements used to improve sleep or treat stress contain ashwagandha among other ingredients.

In 2020 and 2021, some people began using ashwagandha to diminish the harmful effects of COVID-19, although there is no evidence to support that use. The long list of other benefits claimed for ashwagandha includes

Reducing symptoms of stress that may lead to anxiety and depression Increasing fertility in men Helping people with insomnia sleep Increasing muscle mass, strength, endurance, and energy Reducing inflammation (for example, to help prevent cartilage damage caused by osteoarthritis) Lowering cholesterol and triglyceride levels Lowering blood pressure Improving brain function (including memory) Reducing blood sugar levels in people with diabetes Killing cancer cells Reducing weight gain associated with cortisol (a hormone released in response to stress)

Any single compound, including ashwagandha, is highly unlikely to have such a broad range of health benefits. Studies in laboratories (for example, in cells and organs) have shown that ashwagandha reduces inflammation and relaxes the central nervous system.

Help reduce stress, anxiety, and fatigue Improve sleep quality in people with insomnia Enhance brain function and help relieve anxiety in people with bipolar disorder

Larger studies in people are needed to confirm the benefits of ashwagandha. Taking ashwagandha by mouth for up to 3 months seems to be safe. Large doses can lead to an upset stomach, diarrhea, vomiting, and, in rare cases, liver problems.

Ashwagandha is probably unsafe for pregnant women because it might increase the risk of miscarriage. Whether nursing mothers who take ashwagandha might pass its components into breast milk is unknown. Likewise, the effects of ashwagandha in nursing mothers and infants are unknown. Ashwagandha can irritate the digestive system.

Ashwagandha might lower blood sugar levels and thus make it unsafe to use with antihyperglycemic (glucose-lowering) drugs (by lowering blood sugar too much). Because of its potential to lower blood pressure, ashwagandha might not be safe in people who take drugs to treat high blood pressure. Ashwagandha, because it seems to make the immune system more active, could also interfere with drugs that suppress the immune system. Examples of these drugs include cyclosporine, mycophenolate, tacrolimus, prednisone, and corticosteroids. Ashwagandha might make people drowsy or sleepy. So combining sedative-hypnotic drugs (used to help with sleep) with ashwagandha might make people too sleepy. Examples of these sedatives are zoldipem, eszoplicone, clonazepam, quetiapine, and lorazepam, Ashwagandha may increase thyroid hormone levels, so doctors carefully monitor thyroid function by ordering blood tests for anyone who takes thyroid hormones and ashwagandha at the same time.

No beneficial health effects of ashwagandha have been confirmed in high-quality studies in people. Use of ashwagandha is not recommended because there are no confirmed benefits to outweigh the possibility of negative side effects. Ashwagandha is probably safe for most people; however,

Pregnant women, people with stomach ulcers, and those with liver disease should avoid ashwagandha. Women who are breastfeeding and people who take certain drugs (including drugs to suppress the immune system, lower blood sugar, lower blood pressure, and some sedatives) should talk to their doctor before taking ashwagandha. People taking thyroid hormones should also talk to their doctor about taking ashwagandha because blood levels of thyroid hormones may be affected.

NOTE: This is the Consumer Version. DOCTORS: VIEW PROFESSIONAL VERSION VIEW PROFESSIONAL VERSION Copyright © 2023 Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA and its affiliates. All rights reserved.

Why you shouldn’t take ashwagandha everyday

03 /5 Side-effects of consuming too much Ashwagandha – Ashwagandha is a powerful herb and its overdose may lead to some serious side effects. It is always recommended to take Ashwagandha in an amount as prescribed by an Ayurvedic practitioner or mentioned on the package.

Taking more than the recommended amount may lead to stomach upset, diarrhoea, or vomiting. Moreover, if taken for a long period, Ashwagandha may lead to liver problems. Although it is safe for consumption for all, it is better to consult your doctor before taking it if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking immunosuppressants, sedatives, antidepressants, or other medications for chronic disease.

readmore

Does ashwagandha boost testosterone?

what you need to know –

Ashwagandha increases luteinizing hormone (LH) and protects the body from oxidative stress, which increases testosterone levels. Scientific studies prove ashwagandha improves testosterone levels in men. Ashwagandha also improves muscle recovery-growth, reduces anxiety-stress, and supports brain health.

How fast does your body absorb ashwagandha?

Does ashwagandha dissolve, flush out, or build up in the body? – The water-soluble compounds in ashwagandha generally dissolve quickly in your digestive system, and any leftover compounds are flushed out over the course of 2-3 days. The oil-based compounds in this root powder, however, can build up and remain in your system for around 30 days.

Should I take ashwagandha at night?

What is the Best Time to Take Ashwagandha? Ashwagandha is a popular herbal supplement that has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine. It is believed to have a variety of health benefits. But when is the best time to take ashwagandha to make sure you’re reaping maximum benefit? Here is what you should know: How to consume Ashwagandha Ashwagandha is typically and it can be consumed with or without food.

Some people prefer to take it on an empty stomach, while others prefer to consume it with a meal. The best time to take ashwagandha will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Best time of the day to consume it If you are taking ashwagandha to help with sleep, it is generally recommended to take it in the evening before bed.

This is because ashwagandha has a calming effect that can help promote relaxation and *. If you are working to reduce stress* Ashwagandha can be consumed at any time of the day. Some people find that taking it in the morning helps them start their day with a calm and clear mind, while others prefer to take it in the evening to help them relax before bed.

• Understanding the correct dosage Follow the dosage instructions on the product label to ensure you are taking the correct amount of ashwagandha.
• Overdosing on ashwagandha can cause side effects, such as stomach upset and diarrhea.
• Also, do check with your doctor before adding this herb to your diet.
• Consider your lifestyle and daily routine when determining the best time to take ashwagandha.

If you have a busy schedule, you may find it more convenient to take it in the morning or at lunchtime. If you have a more relaxed schedule, it may be more convenient to consume ashwagandha in the evening before bed. Everyone is different, so it is important to experiment to find what works best for you.

1. Try taking ashwagandha at different times of day to see how it affects you and adjust the timing accordingly.
2. It is important to be consistent when taking Ashwagandha to ensure you get the full benefits.
3. Try to take it at the same time each day to help establish a routine.
4. It is important to note that ashwagandha can interact with certain medications, so it is always recommended to talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

They can help you determine the best time to take ashwagandha based on your individual needs and any medications you may be taking. The best time to take ashwagandha will depend on your individual needs and preferences. It can be taken at any time of day, but some people find it more effective when taken in the evening before bed or in the morning for a calm and relaxed beginning of the day.

Is ashwagandha addictive?

What is Ashwagandha & how it helps to relieve stress This is a 3-minute read 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.
• 2) “Ashwagandha supplements offer a natural way to relieve stress and anxiety to help you sleep” are among a supplement class called adaptogens that work to counteract the harmful effects of stress in the body by lowering levels of the “stress hormone,” cortisol.

Adaptogens have a wide variety of other benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties, all of which can add up to less stress. Ashwagandha has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years to help soothe the consequences of occasional stress like sleeplessness, irritability, and the inability to concentrate. Researchers have studied the effectiveness of ashwagandha, with impressive results. In one study, published in the Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine (3), 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 (4). In yet another study, 88 percent of adults given ashwagandha over a six-week period reported feeling less anxious (5).

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. You may consider taking ashwagandha when you have stress and anxiety that is interfering with your ability to relax and sleep. ZzzQuil PURE Zzzs De-Stress and Sleep is formulated with ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) to help de-stress your mind and body so that you relax and unwind before bed.* Drug-free and non-habit-forming, it also includes melatonin, a hormone that is naturally produced in the brain, to help you fall asleep naturally.

How many hours does it take for ashwagandha to work

The amount of time it takes for ashwagandha to start working varies from person to person, but most people begin to feel benefits after a few weeks of regular use. However, for the best results, it is advised that you take a regular ashwagandha supplement for at least 6-8 weeks.

Does ashwagandha make you sleepy?

Does Ashwagandha Make You Sleepy ? – Ashwagandha does not make you sleepy. It is not considered a sleep aid because it does not put you to sleep, but it can play a key role in an overall strategy to support better sleep quality. † The herb’s ability to reduce fatigue, ease everyday stress, and calm occasional anxiousness puts your body and brain in a rested state that allows sleep to come naturally.

How long does it take for ashwagandha to enter the bloodstream

There are no immediate benefits of ashwagandha supplements, and it may require 4–12 weeks to produce any effects. Ashwagandha has the potential to interact with different diseases and medications, so it is important to have a discussion with your doctor or pharmacist before starting this supplement.

How long after taking vitamins can you drink alcohol

Follow. It is not recommended that you drink a caffeinated beverage or alcohol with your supplements. We recommend taking the supplements with food and water at least an hour before or after alcohol, coffee, or other caffeinated beverages.

How long should you wait to eat after taking ashwagandha

When To Take Ashwagandha Before Or After a Meal? – If you are taking ashwagandha in the morning, you must always have it on an empty stomach with a cup of warm milk. And if you are taking it in the middle of the day or at night, always take ashwagandha at least one hour after your meals.

What can you not do while taking ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is a small evergreen shrub that grows in India, the Middle East, and parts of Africa.

Its botanical name is Withania somnifera, and it is also known as Indian ginseng and winter cherry. The active chemical ingredients are known as withanolides. Ashwagandha is available in capsules and powders that can be mixed into soft foods (such as yogurt or oatmeal). The root, root powder, and standardized withanolide extracts are used in a wide range of doses. (Unlike with prescription drugs, there is often little—or conflicting—evidence about the best dose of supplements, including ashwagandha.) Some dietary supplements used to improve sleep or treat stress contain ashwagandha among other ingredients.

In 2020 and 2021, some people began using ashwagandha to diminish the harmful effects of COVID-19, although there is no evidence to support that use. The long list of other benefits claimed for ashwagandha includes

Reducing symptoms of stress that may lead to anxiety and depression Increasing fertility in men Helping people with insomnia sleep Increasing muscle mass, strength, endurance, and energy Reducing inflammation (for example, to help prevent cartilage damage caused by osteoarthritis) Lowering cholesterol and triglyceride levels Lowering blood pressure Improving brain function (including memory) Reducing blood sugar levels in people with diabetes Killing cancer cells Reducing weight gain associated with cortisol (a hormone released in response to stress)

Any single compound, including ashwagandha, is highly unlikely to have such a broad range of health benefits. Studies in laboratories (for example, in cells and organs) have shown that ashwagandha reduces inflammation and relaxes the central nervous system.

Help reduce stress, anxiety, and fatigue Improve sleep quality in people with insomnia Enhance brain function and help relieve anxiety in people with bipolar disorder

Larger studies in people are needed to confirm the benefits of ashwagandha. Taking ashwagandha by mouth for up to 3 months seems to be safe. Large doses can lead to an upset stomach, diarrhea, vomiting, and, in rare cases, liver problems.

Ashwagandha is probably unsafe for pregnant women because it might increase the risk of miscarriage. Whether nursing mothers who take ashwagandha might pass its components into breast milk is unknown. Likewise, the effects of ashwagandha in nursing mothers and infants are unknown. Ashwagandha can irritate the digestive system.

Ashwagandha might lower blood sugar levels and thus make it unsafe to use with antihyperglycemic (glucose-lowering) drugs (by lowering blood sugar too much). Because of its potential to lower blood pressure, ashwagandha might not be safe in people who take drugs to treat high blood pressure. Ashwagandha, because it seems to make the immune system more active, could also interfere with drugs that suppress the immune system. Examples of these drugs include cyclosporine, mycophenolate, tacrolimus, prednisone, and corticosteroids. Ashwagandha might make people drowsy or sleepy. So combining sedative-hypnotic drugs (used to help with sleep) with ashwagandha might make people too sleepy. Examples of these sedatives are zoldipem, eszoplicone, clonazepam, quetiapine, and lorazepam, Ashwagandha may increase thyroid hormone levels, so doctors carefully monitor thyroid function by ordering blood tests for anyone who takes thyroid hormones and ashwagandha at the same time.

No beneficial health effects of ashwagandha have been confirmed in high-quality studies in people. Use of ashwagandha is not recommended because there are no confirmed benefits to outweigh the possibility of negative side effects. Ashwagandha is probably safe for most people; however,

Pregnant women, people with stomach ulcers, and those with liver disease should avoid ashwagandha. Women who are breastfeeding and people who take certain drugs (including drugs to suppress the immune system, lower blood sugar, lower blood pressure, and some sedatives) should talk to their doctor before taking ashwagandha. People taking thyroid hormones should also talk to their doctor about taking ashwagandha because blood levels of thyroid hormones may be affected.

NOTE: This is the Consumer Version. DOCTORS: VIEW PROFESSIONAL VERSION VIEW PROFESSIONAL VERSION Copyright © 2023 Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA and its affiliates. All rights reserved.