Is Ashwagandha Safe?
Is Ashwagandha Safe?
Ashwagandha is traditionally used in alternative medicine and has been around for thousands of years to treat a variety of conditions. This includes stress, anxiety, boosting testosterone and fertility levels in both men and women and more. It is classified as an adaptogen, meaning it can help the body better respond to external stressors and the general consensus is yes, ashwagandha is safe. There are, however, certain individuals who should avoid ashwagandha altogether.
Ashwagandha Safety
According to the Natural Medicine database, ashwagandha is safe when used orally for up to three months at a time. As an adaptogen, it is one of the most well-researched and science-backed supplements on the market. For the majority of individuals ashwagandha is safe to consume on a regular basis. For some it is best to speak with a medical professional first.
Who Can't Take Ashwagandha?
It is strongly recommended that you consult with a physician first before supplementing with ashwagandha if:
- You are nursing or pregnant: Ashwagandha has powerful compounds in it that can cause miscarriages or induce uterine contractions.
- You are taking thyroid medication: Research shows that ashwagandha can increase thyroid hormones and change thyroid function.
- You have low blood pressure: Due to ashwagandha's stress-relieving properties it may lower blood pressure. If you are taking blood pressure medication check with your doctor first before trying ashwagandha.
- You have prostate cancer: Studies show that ashwagandha may increase testosterone levels in men which can be dangerous for patients with prostate cancer.
- You have diabetes: Ashwagandha can lower blood sugar levels as well as blood pressure.
- You have stomach ulcers: Gastrointestinal irritation can occur in individuals with stomach ulcers who take ashwagandha.
Should You Try Ashwagandha?
There are many benefits of ashwagandha and those who use it tend to swear by its effectiveness. Some of the many ashwagandha benefits include but are not limited to:
- Boost testosterone levels in men
- Reduce anxiety
- Help the body better respond to stress
- Improve sleep quality and duration
- Powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
- Improve cognitive function
- Promote hair growth
If you do not have any of the conditions described above it may be in your best interest to give ashwagandha a try. Thought Calmer is an award-winning clinical strength blend of rhodiola rosea—which is another popular adaptogen— ashwagandha, l-theanine, 5-HTP, and magnesium citrate. Shop Thought Calmer here.
How Much Should I Take?
There is no "set" dosage of ashwagandha, for each condition is different. The typically dosage ranges from 500 mg once daily to 5,000 mg once daily. If you would like to learn when to take ashwagandha click here.
Is Ashwagandha Safe Summary
Ashwagandha is traditionally used in alternative medicine and has been around for thousands of years to treat a variety of conditions. As an adaptogen, it is one of the most well-researched and science-backed supplements on the market. According to the Natural Medicine database, ashwagandha is safe when used orally for up to three months at a time.
There are certain individuals who should avoid ashwagandha altogether and there are some who should consult with their physician first before supplementing with ashwagandha.
Dosage of ashwagandha ranges from 500 mg once daily to 5,000 mg once daily.
Also in Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha Testosterone: Does It Boost Levels?
Ashwagandha For Sleep
