Other names for ashwagandha include “Indian Ginseng” and “Indian Winter Cherry.” It is among the most significant herbs in Ayurveda. Due to its extensive range of health advantages, it has been utilized for millennia as a Rasayana—an herbal mixture that fosters a youthful, bodily, and mental state of health. Additionally, it is called “Sattvic Kapha Rasayana,” the plant. Most Rasayana plants contain adaptogens and anti-stress elements. Ashwagandha is offered as ayurvedic medicine; a powder that has been carefully sieved and can be mixed with water, ghee, or honey. It enhances memory and the neurological system’s and brain’s performance.

Enhancing its performance encourages a healthy sexual and reproductive system. It is a potent adaptogen and is thought to increase the body’s ability to withstand stress. Ashwagandha improves cell-mediated immunity, which in turn strengthens the body’s defenses against a range of ailments. Additionally, it contains potent antioxidant properties that aid in shielding cells from free radicals (unstable atoms that can harm cells, resulting in disease and aging). There could be some negative effects from this supplement, making it not suitable for everyone.

Side Effects of Taking Ashwagandha

Pregnant Women Should Avoid It

Certain components of ashwagandha may result in uterine contractions, an early birth, or even a miscarriage. Since ashwagandha has emergency contraceptive effects and might result in miscarriages, it is not regarded as safe during pregnancy.

Causing Thyroid Some Trouble

Some people may find this to be good news, especially those who suffer from diseases like hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, which are characterized by reduced thyroid activity. For those who already have hyperthyroidism or a high thyroid function, it can be harmful.

In one study, subjects with subclinical hypothyroidism (thyroid levels that weren’t low enough for a hypothyroidism diagnosis) were examined. The two major thyroid hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), were restored to normal levels in individuals who took ashwagandha root extract. Scientists theorize that the cortisol-lowering properties of ashwagandha may be responsible for this impact, but more research is required to validate this. This research raises the possibility that Withania somnifera may be useful in treating people whose thyroid function is not truly hypothyroid but nonetheless causes lethargy, weight gain, and hair loss despite not falling below the blood level cutoffs for actual hypothyroidism.

This side effect of ashwagandha could potentially be problematic for those whose thyroids are already overactive because they are being treated with medication that reduces their thyroid hormone output. If hyperthyroidism is left unchecked, increased thyroid hormone levels can cause thyrotoxicosis, a dangerous disorder that can cause a variety of illnesses, including heart disease.

A Decrease in Blood Pressure

Although some people would benefit from a product that decreases blood pressure, for others, this ashwagandha side effect can be harmful. A lot of people who have hypertension, or high blood pressure, take a prescribed medication under the supervision of their primary care doctor to lower their blood pressure. If you combine these medications with ashwagandha, your blood pressure may fall even lower. Because of this, you should always see a doctor before introducing anything new into your routine.

It May Be Harmful to The GI Tract

According to studies conducted on animals, Ashwagandha may offer protection against stress-related stomach ulcers. These outcomes, though, might not apply to people. In actuality, ashwagandha overdoses can also affect our GI tracts. When taken in high dosages, this herb may cause nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Further human investigations are required in this area.

It May Cause Low Blood Sugar

There is still much to learn in this area, but multiple studies on animals point to the possibility that ashwagandha may lower blood sugar levels. Clinical trials on people, however, are currently scarce. Utilizing ashwagandha may result in dangerously low glucose levels if you already have low blood sugar or are on diabetes treatments.

Decrease The Immune System

It’s wonderful to have a strong immune system that is fighting for you, right? No, never. Ashwagandha may make the symptoms of autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, or multiple sclerosis worse among sufferers. The body attacks itself in autoimmune disorders. Therefore,  the greater the immune function, the more aggressively the body will fight. People with these medical disorders should stay away from the herbal supplement ashwagandha because it may decrease their immunological response.

Dry Mouth

A select population may experience dry mouth if they take too much ashwagandha. Even though there isn’t enough proof, it’s preferable to proceed with caution and see a doctor if the issue materializes. Most of the negative effects of Ashwagandha are based on rumors. While more research is being done, extreme caution must be taken.

Fever

Following ashwagandha use, some individuals may notice a rise in body temperature. On the other hand, it’s unclear how this happens. In a few days, the elevated body temperature is anticipated to normalize. Before taking ashwagandha, see your doctor if you have a high body temperature for whatever reason.

Allergies

People who are allergic to nightshades may experience allergic responses when taking ashwagandha. Possible adverse effects include skin rashes, irritation, inflammation, chest pain, and breathing problems. However, more study in this area is necessary.

Ashwagandha Benefits

It’s important to note that ashwagandha typically has a variety of potential health advantages. Withanolides, steroids found naturally in nightshades, are responsible for many of their adaptogenic health effects. Ashwagandha extract is advertised as having anti-inflammatory and anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) effects. It might increase testosterone levels and reduce male infertility in some groups. Additionally, some research indicates that it may help people with chronic stress reduce their levels of the stress hormone cortisol.

When to See a Doctor

Unfortunately, some herbal products that want to enter the market have a low entry barrier, and quality can be the price. Any supplement may seem harmless enough to purchase, particularly if it has positive customer reviews, but it can actually be rather risky. Even with regard to ashwagandha, there have been reports of subpar items hurting people. Regarding ashwagandha, there have been numerous reports of liver damage. They discovered that many of the products at issue contained pollutants after further investigation.

By purchasing from a reputable supplier, you can eliminate these safety worries. If you have any of the listed negative effects, especially if they develop or do not go away after quitting the ashwagandha supplement, you should consult a doctor. Before beginning a new supplement like ashwagandha, see your doctor. It is worth mentioning that one of the safest ways of taking Ashwagandha is through ashwagandha gummies, which are tasty and don’t have any side effects. There are many brands offering ashwagandha gummies, but one of the best ones is NourishVita, based on NourishVita ashwagandha gummies reviews. You can check our official website for more information.