15 Serious Side Effects Of Ashwagandha & Precautions To Take

Ashwagandha is one of the most used herbs in Ayurveda. It is scientifically known as Withania Somnifera. While it offers an array of health benefits, the side effects of ashwagandha are also documented. In people with allergies or autoimmune diseases, ashwagandha may cause adverse effects as it has immunomodulatory and hypoglycemicⁱ  XA property characterized by blood sugar levels that fall below the healthy range, causing sweats, chills, and tremors. properties. There is also some evidence that it may cause abortions. In this article, you will read more about such negative effects of this herb. Scroll down to know more.

What Are The Side Effects Of Ashwagandha?

1. May Be Harmful During Pregnancy And Breastfeeding

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Ashwagandha is one of those herbs that can harm the baby or terminate pregnancy. According to reports by the Sloan-Kettering Memorial Cancer Center, ashwagandha can induce abortion (1).

The herb may also cause miscarriages. There is little information on the safety of ashwagandha during breastfeeding. Hence, stay on the safe side and avoid its use.

2. May Cause Liver Damage

Patients taking commercial herbal products containing ashwagandha were found to experience liver injuries (2). However, the herb’s mechanism in this regard is yet to be understood.

3. May Lower Blood Sugar Way Too Much

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Studies show that ashwagandha can lower blood sugar levels (3). However, this may not be beneficial to someone on diabetes medication. The herb may lower blood sugar levels way too much. This causes other complications.

Studies showed hypoglycemicⁱ  XA property characterized by blood sugar levels that fall below the healthy range, causing sweats, chills, and tremors. effects and effects on insulin sensitivity in diabetic rats (4), (5). Hence, those on diabetes medications may experience adverse effects with the intake of ashwagandha.

4. May Aggravate Hyperthyroidism

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Ashwagandha is known to increase thyroid hormone concentrations. Hence, those with hyperthyroidism may experience undesirable symptoms (6). Hyperthyroidism is a condition characterized by already excess levels of thyroid hormones in the serum.

Individuals diagnosed with hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) must also consult their doctor before taking ashwagandha as the herb may interact with the associated medications.

5. May Aggravate Autoimmune Diseases

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Ashwagandha extract is known to boost the immune system (7). This property may be a problem for individuals diagnosed with autoimmune disorders, like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and multiple sclerosis. Medications taken for treating autoimmune diseases decrease immune system response, and supplementing them with ashwagandha may interfere with their effectiveness. More research is needed to understand the mechanism of ashwagandha on autoimmune diseases.

6. May Cause Gastrointestinal Issues

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Excess ashwagandha may irritate the gastrointestinal tract (2). Hence, those with stomach ulcers are suggested to avoid the herb. Constipation was another side effect seen in a group that took ashwagandha (8). The herb may also cause diarrhea and an upset stomach (2).

7. May Cause Drowsiness

In rat studies, ashwagandha was found to have relaxing properties that might lead to drowsiness (9). Hence, someone on medications for insomnia may experience excessive sleepiness with the herb intake.

Ensure you don’t use the herb in conjunction with sleep medications like lorazepam, zolpidem, or alprazolam. Though the research about herb-drug interactions is limited, it is important to exercise caution.

Studies have also confirmed the sleep-inducing properties of ashwagandha (10). Taking the herb along with sedatives may lead to excessive drowsiness. Hence, consult your doctor.

8. May Lead To Erectile Dysfunction

As per researchers from the University of Ruhuna, ashwagandha root extract may cause erectile dysfunctionⁱ  XA condition experienced by certain men that is characterized by the inability to keep an erection long enough to engage in sexual activity. and decrease male sexual performance (11). Though the herb is believed to be an aphrodisiacⁱ  XSubstances used to stimulate and increase sexual desire, pleasure, and arousal, which are abundant in almonds and pumpkin seeds. , this is something to be considered. More research on humans is needed to understand this phenomenon further.

9. May Causes Allergies

Anecdotal evidence suggests that some people may experience allergies due to ashwagandha. The reactions may include skin rashes, itchiness, inflammation, chest pain, and difficulty in breathing. People allergic to nightshades may also be allergic to ashwagandha. However, we need more research on this.

10. May Cause Fever

The use of ashwagandha may increase body temperature in some individuals. However, how this happens is yet to be understood. The elevated body temperature is said to return to normal in a few days. Information on this aspect is insufficient. If you have a high body temperature for any reason, consult your doctor before taking ashwagandha.

11. May Cause Bleeding

Ashwagandha may cause bleeding. Individuals with bleeding disorders are not recommended to take the herb. However, no concrete research supports this, except for anecdotal evidence.

12. May Cause Dry Mouth

Intake of excess ashwagandha may cause dry mouth in certain individuals. Though there is not enough research, it is better to exercise caution and consult your doctor if the condition arises.

Most of the side effects of ashwagandha are based on anecdotal evidence. While more research is ongoing, it is important to take precautions.

13. May Cause Kidney Damage

As per research, with its immunostimulatory effects, ashwagandha may lead to kidney allograft rejection (12). Therefore, people considering a kidney transplant should consult their doctor about the same.

14. May Lower Blood Pressure

While ashwagandha on its own might be beneficial for people with hypertension, its ability to lower blood pressure could prove fatal if combined with other hypertension-lowering drugs and medications. In addition, it could also prove dangerous for people with low blood pressure conditions (13). That’s why it is essential to consult your doctor before adding it to your wellness regimen.

15. May Induce Drug Interactions

If you are on any medication, you should consult a doctor before you include Ashwagandha in your wellness routine. Ashwagandha may result in drug interactions, especially with sedatives, immune suppressants, liver medications, diabetes, thyroid, cholesterol, or hypertension-related medications (4), (9), (10), (2),(7), (6).

Given the above side effects of ashwagandha, it is essential to consult a licensed medical practitioner before taking this herb in any form. Also, there are certain health conditions and situations wherein you should avoid ashwagandha altogether.

Who Should Not Take Ashwagandha

You should not include ashwagandha in your wellness routine in any form if you are dealing with any of the below health conditions.

• Pregnancy: Ashwagandha has not been widely studied for its effects on human pregnancies. It is therefore advised to avoid its consumption when pregnant.

• Hyperthyroidism: Ashwagandha may alter the normal functioning of the thyroid and may increase the thyroid hormones. This could be dangerous for people with hyperthyroidism (14). It may also interfere with the results of thyroid tests, so it’s important to inform your doctor if you are taking ashwagandha in any form.

• Prostate Cancer: Ashwagandha may potentially increase your serum testosterone levels which could be dangerous for people with prostate cancer (15).

• An Autoimmune Condition: Ashwagandha has immunostimulating properties, which can help boost the immune system (7). This may decrease the effects of immunosuppressant drugsⁱ  XDrugs that suppress the immune system when it mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues, particularly a transplanted foreign organ. generally used for managing autoimmune disorders.

• Diabetes: Animal studies suggest that Ashwagandha may decrease blood sugar levels (4), (5). While it’s still not yet established for humans, people with diabetes should consult with their doctor before taking ashwagandha.

• Liver Concerns: Ashwagandha, beyond its prescribed dose, may affect your liver health or aggravate pre-existing liver conditions (2). So you should consult your doctor before including it in your routine.

• Impending Surgery: In case of an upcoming surgery that requires anesthesia, you should stop taking ashwagandha at least two weeks ahead to avoid any potential drug interactions (16).

While most of the risks of ashwagandha may seem to be based on anecdotal evidence, it is still important to take precautions to avoid any adverse effects.

Precautions To Be Taken

It is important to take ashwagandha in the right dosage. Strictly follow medical advice to prevent any adverse reactions. Certain other precautions that one must take include the following:

• Ashwagandha root extract should be used only as a supplement as it is non-toxic in comparison to Withaferin A (the anticancer molecule).
• It is advisable to take ashwagandha with meals (or breakfast) with a full glass of water.
• As ashwagandha may increase the effects of certain drugs or medications, it is important to review the drugs or medications that you are taking before consuming them.
• Those who experience abdominal disorders after using ashwagandha should consult their doctor. Large doses of ashwagandha may cause stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting.

The ideal dosage of ashwagandha would be suggested by your doctor or healthcare provider. However, there are some recommendations you may want to know.

Recommended Dosage

• Powder (leaf): 1-2 teaspoons a day
• Root: 1-2 teaspoons a day
• Capsule: 1-6 g of the whole herb (by mouth) per day
• Tea: 3 cups of the whole herb per day (1-6 g)
• Tincture: 2-4 mL (by mouth), thrice a day

Exceeding the dosage may cause side effects. There is less research to substantiate these dosage values. You may talk to your doctor for the exact dosage for you.

Infographic: What To Look For While Choosing Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha is a widely used herb with many medicinal values. However, it also may cause side effects. Consuming contaminated or poor-quality products made of this herb may harm one’s health. The good news is – considering certain factors beforehand can help minimize the risk of these negative effects. Click on the infographic below to learn more.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can ashwagandha cause weight gain?

While no research yet states that ashwagandha can cause weight gain, one particular study suggests that the herb may help with weight management in adults dealing with chronic stress (17).

Can I take ashwagandha in the morning?

Yes, ashwagandha is an adaptogen and can be taken in the morning to help combat fatigue and stress.

Should you take ashwagandha on an empty stomach?

There is no scientific evidence on the effects of ashwagandha on an empty stomach. However, if you feel discomfort or experience symptoms such as nausea or vomiting, contact a medical supervisor immediately.

Can you feel ashwagandha benefits right away?

No, ashwagandha and similar adaptogens need time to work and show results. It may take up to 60 days of regular consumption to realize its beneficial effects.

Can ashwagandha cause hair loss?

No, instead, ashwagandha could potentially help alleviate stress-related hair loss by reducing the cortisol levels in the body (18). However, there is no established evidence to support the role of ashwagandha in preventing or causing hair loss.

Can ashwagandha make you feel weird?

If taken beyond the prescribed dosage, Ashwagandha may make you feel drowsy, nauseous, or uncomfortable.

Is ashwagandha good for belly fat?

Ashwagandha is believed to have a natural cortisol-lowering property, which helps reduce stress. High levels of stress often lead to the storage of abdominal fat. Hence, ashwagandha, when combined with the right lifestyle changes, may help reduce belly fat. However, limited research is available in this regard.

Does ashwagandha cause body odor?

In Sanskrit, ashwagandha literally means “odor of the horse” (as the root smells like horse’s urine). However, taking this root doesn’t make one smell bad.

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Madhu SharmaRD

Madhu Sharma is a member of the National Executive Committee of IDA. She has been associated for almost three decades with Pediatric Nutrition at PGI while serving in the Gastroenterology Department (20 years) and then the Advanced Pediatric Center (10 yrs) at PGIMER, Chandigarh. She is former Senior Dietitian from PGIMER, Chandigarh, retired in 2012. Madhu has been closely working...more

Varsha PatnaikHealth & Wellness Writer

 

Varsha holds a master's degree in biotechnology from Ravenshaw University, Cuttack, and is a certified diet and nutrition coach with two years of experience. She combines her scientific knowledge and her passion for writing to produce research-backed content in the health and wellness domain. Her writing focuses on the health and nutritional benefits of various ingredients and diets and how...more