What are the risks of taking ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha is generally safe short-term but carries risks like liver injury, thyroid disruption, and interactions with medications for blood pressure, diabetes, and immune suppression; common mild side effects include stomach upset, diarrhea, nausea, and drowsiness, while it's not recommended for pregnant/breastfeeding women, those with autoimmune diseases, or hormone-sensitive cancers due to potential effects on hormones and immune system, with long-term safety still unknown.

Are there any negative side effects to ashwagandha?

Some people who use ashwagandha report side effects such as stomach upset, loose bowel movements or diarrhea and nausea. For the most part, though, it is considered to be safe for regular use over the course of three months. Information on prolonged use is not available.

What will happen if I take ashwagandha every day?

Muscle strength and recovery: Research indicates that ashwagandha can increase muscle mass and strength. One study found that participants taking ashwagandha daily had a higher increase in muscle strength and size than those on a placebo. It also helped reduce muscle damage, leading to faster recovery times.

What happens to your body when you start taking ashwagandha?

“The idea is that ashwagandha is an adaptogen, which are plants that can reduce the amount of cortisol (stress hormone) your body releases,” Dr. Lin reports. “Less cortisol can mean you feel less stressed mentally, and it can lessen the physical effects of stress.

Can ashwagandha cause weight gain?

Ashwagandha doesn't directly cause fat gain and often supports weight management by reducing stress-related fat, but it can lead to weight gain if it promotes muscle growth (a healthy type of weight) or increases appetite in some individuals, though muscle gain is more common in active people, with weight gain being an uncommon side effect overall. Its primary effect is helping the body find balance, potentially reducing belly fat by lowering cortisol, but it might also increase lean mass, leading to a higher scale number.
 

The DARK SIDE of Ashwagandha

What not to mix with ashwagandha?

Taking ashwagandha with other hepatotoxic medications may increase your risk for liver damage.

• Indocin (indomethacin)
• Dilantin (phenytoin)
• Rifadin (rifampin)
• Garcinia.
• Green tea extract.
• Black cohosh.
• Kava.

Do I take ashwagandha in the morning or night?

Generally, ashwagandha is taken before bedtime to help with sleep, but you can take it in the morning if you find it more activating. Some people respond quickly to ashwagandha, while others take more time. Usually, patients notice subtle effects within one month. Herbs shouldn't be taken indefinitely.

How fast does ashwagandha kick in?

How long does it take for ashwagandha to work? That varies from person to person, just as it does when people try a new medication. I recommend taking ashwagandha for at least three months to see if you notice a difference. Typically, in four to 12 weeks, you'll notice feeling calmer and probably sleeping better.

Why can't I sleep after taking ashwagandha?

While ashwagandha is intended to help you relax, it can enhance energy and focus for some people, making it harder to fall asleep.

What happens if you don't cycle ashwagandha?

Proponents of Ashwagandha cycling believe that alternating between periods of use and periods of disuse can help your body avoid developing a tolerance to the dietary supplement so as to enhance these benefits and prevent certain side effects.

What is the controversy with ashwagandha?

The ashwagandha controversy centers on European regulatory actions, particularly Denmark's 2023 ban, citing potential risks like harm to thyroid/sex hormones, liver toxicity (herb-induced liver injury), and possible abortion-inducing effects, although these concerns are debated and evidence is mixed, with some experts arguing for better standardization and context. Other countries like France and Poland have issued warnings or set intake limits, while the UK investigates, highlighting a regulatory divide between potential traditional benefits and modern safety concerns. 

What's better for anxiety, magnesium or ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha and magnesium have been used to support sleep and reduce stress. Ashwagandha appears to be more effective than magnesium at relieving anxiety, though both supplements show some benefit in aiding sleep.

Why did Denmark ban ashwagandha?

Denmark banned ashwagandha in 2023 due to a 2020 risk assessment by the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) highlighting concerns about potential negative impacts on thyroid and sex hormones, liver health, and possible abortifacient (abortion-inducing) effects, making it impossible to establish a safe daily intake limit for supplements. The ban, enforced by the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration, aimed to protect public health from unregulated products with inconsistent dosages and unproven safety profiles, leading to withdrawal of products from shelves.
 

Why do doctors not recommend ashwagandha?

However, there are a few reports of more serious side effects, including adverse effects on liver function. Ashwagandha might also affect thyroid function and interact with some medications. Some experts advise against the use of ashwagandha by women who are pregnant and by men with hormone-sensitive prostate cancer.

What are the downsides of ashwagandha?

Large doses of ashwagandha might cause stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting. Rarely, liver problems, including severe liver failure and a need for liver transplantation, might occur. When applied to the skin: Lotion containing ashwagandha is possibly safe when used for up to 2 months.

What is the #1 worst habit for anxiety?

The #1 worst habit for anxiety isn't one single thing, but often a cycle involving procrastination/avoidance, driven by anxiety and leading to more anxiety, alongside fundamental issues like sleep deprivation, which cripples your ability to cope with stress. Other major culprits are excessive caffeine, poor diet, negative self-talk, sedentary living, and constantly checking your phone, all creating a vicious cycle that fuels worry and physical symptoms.
 

What drink calms anxiety?

Drinks that calm anxiety often contain relaxation-promoting compounds like L-theanine or antioxidants, with popular choices including Chamomile Tea, Green Tea, Peppermint Tea, Lavender Tea, and even warm milk, plus good hydration from Water or 100% fruit juice; these work best alongside professional treatment, not as a replacement. 

How to stop overthinking anxiety?

To stop overthinking anxiety, use immediate distraction (music, math), practice mindfulness (breathing, meditation), shift focus to action/gratitude, schedule "worry time," journal thoughts, exercise, and talk to someone supportive, all while being kind to yourself and limiting information overload. These techniques help break the rumination cycle by calming the body and redirecting the mind from uncontrollable spirals to the present moment. 

Who must not take ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha should be avoided during pregnancy and should not be used while breastfeeding. Ashwagandha is not recommended for people who are about to have surgery, or for those who have autoimmune or thyroid disorders.

How to know if ashwagandha is not for you?

Ashwagandha may cause side effects like nausea, drowsiness, headache, and liver injury. Ashwagandha is generally safe and well-tolerated, but may have side effects like nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, and headaches. More serious side effects can include liver problems, increased thyroid function, and allergic reactions.

Can your body become dependent on ashwagandha?

No, you can't get addicted to Ashwagandha. It doesn't contain any addictive substances like caffeine or nicotine. Your body doesn't crave it or go through withdrawal if you stop taking it. Some people take Ashwagandha daily to manage stress or improve sleep.

Is there a rebound effect with ashwagandha?

Should I stop taking ashwagandha if I experience side effects? Gradual reduction is preferable to sudden discontinuation, as some people experience rebound anxiety with abrupt stopping. Consulting with a healthcare provider about tapering is recommended.

Can you feel ashwagandha the first day?

It is generally after 2 to 4 weeks that one begins to feel the most noticeable effects of an Ashwagandha cure.