Ashwagandha: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects & Dosage

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is utilized for a variety of purposes. However, its advantages are not clearly established. The following are some of the most prevalent reasons for using ashwagandha.

Anxiety

Depression

Trouble sleeping (insomnia)

To assist control stress.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not studied ashwagandha for safety or efficacy, and it has not been authorized by the FDA.

Withania somnifera is the botanical name given to ashwagandha. Some people refer to ashwagandha as Indian ginseng, but this plant is unrelated to other types of ginseng. Ashwagandha is hypothesized to function as an adaptogen, a drug that assists the body in responding to stressful changes in its environment. 

Ashwagandha's actions in the body are thought to be caused by some of its compounds, known as withanolides. However, it is unknown how these compounds might operate to reduce stress, promote sleep, or treat anxiety or depression.

Ashwagandha and other herbal preparations naturally contain a variety of compounds, including withanolides. Each chemical's concentration in a particular product may differ from one another. Some, none, or all of these compounds may affect the body. These effects may vary depending on the amount of each ingredient present in the substance you are using.

You should keep ashwagandha in accordance with the product label. Most dietary supplements should be stored in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children and pets, and out of direct sunlight.

The most prevalent ashwagandha adverse effects are outlined below. These adverse effects may vary based on the dosage or the product being used. Inform your healthcare professional if any of these adverse effects annoy you.

Drowsiness

Diarrhea

Nausea or vomiting.

An upset stomach

There may be other ashwagandha side effects that have not been reported. If you believe you are experiencing an adverse effect from a supplement, contact your healthcare provider.

While less prevalent, the most serious ashwagandha side effects are listed here, along with what to do if they occur.

Severe allergic reactions. Ashwagandha may induce allergic reactions that are severe. If you experience any of the following signs of a serious allergic reaction while taking ashwagandha, stop taking it immediately and seek treatment.

breathing issues or wheezing.

A racing heart

Fever or general sick feeling.

Swollen lymph nodes.

Swelling of the lips, mouth, tongue, or throat.

Difficulty swallowing or throat tightness

itching or skin rash

Hives are bumps on the skin that can be red, pink, white, or brown depending on your skin tone.

Nausea or vomiting.

Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting

Stomach cramps.

Joint discomfort.

Liver damage. When using ashwagandha, you risk experiencing liver damage, also known as hepatotoxicity. If you experience any of the following signs of liver injury, contact your doctor immediately.

Nausea or vomiting.

Stomach or belly ache.

Fever

Weakness and unexpected tiredness

Itching

Loss of appetite

Light-colored feces

dark-colored urine (pee)

Jaundice is the yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes.

Allergies to ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should avoid taking ashwagandha.

Ashwagandha with Indian Ginseng

Withania somnifera.

Any of the ingredients in the particular product

Your pharmacist can tell you all about the ingredients in the ashwagandha products they carry.

Ashwagandha is a dietary supplement. It cannot be advertised to treat or cure any condition.

Read and follow the directions on the product you're using, or take it as prescribed by your doctor.

Herbal products, such as ashwagandha, naturally contain a variety of compounds. The amount of each molecule in a certain ashwagandha product might vary depending on a variety of factors, including the location where the plant was grown, the weather during growth, the time of year when it was harvested, and how the plant was processed after harvest.

Ashwagandha is available in a variety of forms, including liquid extracts, tea, and dry powdered powder in capsules or tablets. Each of these forms may have varying levels of the compounds naturally present in the plant.

Ashwagandha products can be manufactured from many sections of the plant, such as the root and leaf. These plant components contain a variety of compounds, which may have varying impacts on the body. Traditional ashwagandha preparations contained the plant's root. It is critical to read the label to determine which parts of the plant were used in the product. Because of this heterogeneity, switching to a new bottle or brand may result in different results or side effects. If you have any questions or concerns, speak with your healthcare professional.

The FDA has not evaluated ashwagandha products to ensure that they contain the ingredients listed on the label. Some dietary supplements have been evaluated by third-party organizations to ensure that they contain the ingredients specified on the label and are free of dangerous substances.

Inform your healthcare provider about any of your medical issues, as well as any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medications, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are taking. This will help them determine whether ashwagandha is right for you.

Current and previous health conditions. Inform your healthcare professional if you have any of the following.

Thyroid issues.

Liver issues.

Prostate cancer

Other medicines and supplements. Ashwagandha may interact with other medications or supplements. Before using ashwagandha, consult your doctor about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medications, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, or other supplements you are taking. See the Interactions section for more information.

Pregnancy. It is unknown if or how ashwagandha may affect pregnancy or harm an unborn child. Inform your healthcare professional if you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant. 

Breastfeeding. It is unclear whether ashwagandha goes into breast milk. Inform your healthcare practitioner if you are nursing or want to breastfeed.