Ashwagandha Side Effects and Safety of this Herbal Supplement

The Ashwagandha plant has been used in Indian Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years.

Ashwagandha components found in its roots, leaves, and berries contain a variety of photochemicals and nutrients, include amino acids and choline.

It is considered one of the most beneficial and important herbs in the practice of Ayurveda- a form of alternative medicine utilizing natural components found in nature.

This traditional medicine utilizes a whole body approach to health and wellness and involves mind, body, and soul in its practices.

While regarded as safe for regular use, there are some Ashwagandha side effects that you should be aware of before purchasing this supplement.

Ashwagandha

Adaptogen

Stress

Mood

Sleep

How It Works:

• Reduces stress and anxiety
• Improves concentration, fatigue & sleep
• Protects against oxidative stress

Dosage:

Between 300 - 1000 mg per day

Safety:

Rated Possibly Safe

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What does Ashwagandha do?

Ashwagandha (scientific name Withania somniferi) is also known as Indian ginseng, and by other names in Sanskrit, Hindi, and Tamil, including asgand, amukkirag, sand asvagandha.

The roots of this herb are believed to help energize and rejuvenate the nervous system.

It is said to help prevent or reduce stress related disorders caused by increases in cortisol (the ‘stress’ hormone) in the blood. It is also believed to boost the body’s immune system when stores of vitamin C have been depleted.

Clinical studies and laboratory studies have determined that Ashwagandha can modulate and stimulate a variety of immune system functions. Additionally, the herb is believed to have anti-inflammatory benefits as well as anti-aging effects.

The root, leaves, and berries of the Ashwagandha plant have long been utilized to support whole-body health and to reduce the inflammation caused by arthritis. The herbal remedy may also reduce fluid retention and swelling caused by inflammation.

Recent studies have also determined that Ashwagandha may relieve symptoms of osteoarthritis. Individuals with Type 2 diabetes may experience lowered blood sugar levels, as well as lower levels of bad or (LDL or low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol in the blood. Ashwagandha also has some sedative properties which may help reduce levels of stress and anxiety.

In the United States, Ashwagandha is available as a dietary supplement commonly used as a diuretic, a sedative, and an adaptogen, boosting the effects and function of the central nervous systems, the immune system, and inflammatory conditions.

Safe Dosages of Ashwagandha

When used properly and according to directions, Ashwagandha side effects are minimal.

Dosage recommendations for Ashwagandha differ depending on the age and overall health and wellness of the individual taking it. Dosage is also dependent on the form of Ashwagandha root taken.

This herb is available in tea form, leaves, tinctures, as well as supplement capsules or pills. Most use between 1 and 6 g of the whole herb to prepare tea. When using powdered supplements, 3 g may be adequate for brewing the tea.

In pill or capsule form, the extract from Ashwagandha root has been used in doses ranging from 450 mg to 2 g. It is most often combined with other herbs and preparations to alleviate anxiety and improve mood.

According to Drugs.com, side effects are mild and when used safely, Ashwagandha is non-toxic.

Ashwagandha Side Effects

Clinical studies that have examined the long term effects or side effects associated with use of Ashwagandha are lacking. When taken short-term and by mouth, Ashwagandha is relatively safe, although taking too much may cause side effects such as upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Individuals diagnosed with certain conditions should use precautions and avoid Ashwagandha. These situations include pregnant or breast-feeding women, or if you have been diagnosed with stomach ulcers. In such situations, the herb is believed to irritate the stomach and intestinal tract.

Interactions of Ashwagandha with prescription medication are also possible. For example, individuals with diabetes should avoid use of this herb because it may lower levels of blood sugar (glucose) in the blood.

The herb may also decrease blood pressure due to sedative effects. Therefore, Ashwagandha in any form should not be taken if you are already taking medications to treat high or low blood pressure.

Avoid use of Ashwagandha if you have a thyroid disorder, as it may increase levels of hormones produced by the thyroid gland. This increase in hormones may interact negatively with prescription medications.

The same goes for diseases of the autoimmune system that include systemic lupus erythematosus, multiple sclerosis, or rheumatoid arthritis because it may increase activities of the immune system, which can in turn exacerbate symptoms of those conditions.

Finally, avoid taking Ashwagandha if you are taking any type of immunosuppressant medication. The same applies to sedatives including Valium, Klonopin, and Ativan. Ativan may also interact with over-the-counter as well as prescription sleep aids, including Ambien.

When taken correctly and in conjunction with your doctor or health practitioner’s knowledge and advice, Ashwagandha side effects are rare.

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