Ashwagandha Side Effects

by Kat Austin April 25, 2022 3 min read

Ashwagandha Side Effects - Vida Optima™

Many sources are quick to cover Ashwagandha’s potential benefits, and rightfully so–modern evidence suggest that the herbal remedy may be useful for managing anxiety, lowering pain and inflammation, and improving heart health. Of course, there’s more to the story that needs to be considered before adding a new supplement to your daily wellness routine. Most importantly, what are the side effects of Ashwagandha to be aware of?

Here, we’ll cover all of the potential Ashwagandha side effects and what to do when they arise. Let’s dive in:

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Table of Contents
Is Ashwagandha Safe?
What are the Side Effects of Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha Drug Interactions
Is Ashwagandha Additive?
Who Shouldn’t Take Ashwagandha ?
Ashwagandha Side Effects FAQs

Key Takeaways

  • Ashwagandha side effects are rare and almost always mild.
  • Side effects of Ashwagandha are often related to poor product quality, so choosing a high-quality manufacturer is of utmost importance.
  • Some people should not take Ashwagandha, like those with thyroid issues or who are taking certain medications.
Two different types of Ashwagandha capsules, a common dosing form that's unlikely to cause side effects when used responsibly.

Is Ashwagandha Safe?

Ashwagandha is generally safe for most people when a high-quality supplement is used at responsible doses. In some cases, combining Ashwagandha with other substances, like certain prescription or over the counter drugs may cause them to be ineffective and could be unsafe. Otherwise, side effects are both rare and mild and can usually be remediated by adjusting your dosing routine.

What are the Side Effects of Ashwagandha?

In most cases, Ashwagandha has shown to have little to no risk of adverse effects. In large amounts or when using a poor-quality formulation, Ashwagandha may cause some mild side effects, including:

Nausea and Diarrhea

Although side effects are rare in general, nausea and diarrhea are the most common possible side effects of Ashwagandha. This is often linked to taking too high of a dose and can be remediated by taking smaller doses. If symptoms persist, discontinue use and consult a doctor.

Drowsiness

Some evidence suggests that Ashwagandha may help you sleep better at night, but daytime drowsiness may be an inconvenience for some people. Thankfully, not all people experience this side effect, and taking Ashwagandha at night can help to manage these possible effects.

Allergic Reaction

Although it is rare, some people experience a mushroom allergy. Symptoms of an allergic reaction to Ashwagandha may include:

  • Swelling of the lips, mouth, and airways
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Skin rashes or hives
  • Runny nose
  • Watery eyes
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Stomach cramping
  • Bloating
  • Loose stools

Interactions With Other Supplements or Medications

In some cases, herbal remedies can interact with certain medications, including other supplements and OTC and prescription drugs. We'll discuss this more below.

Ashwagandha Drug Interactions

Ashwagndha’s potential drug interactions have only been evaluated on a limited basis, but experts assume that it may have adverse interactions with the following drugs based on the impact Ashwagandha may have on the body:

  • Immunosuppressants
  • Sedative medications (Benzodiazepines)
  • CNS depressants
  • Thyroid hormones
  • Medications for diabetes
  • Antihypertensive drugs

Is Ashwagandha Addictive?

No, Ashwagandha does not possess any qualities that cause it to be habit forming, and the risk of forming an addiction to Ashwagandha is little to none.

A pile of ashwagandha capsules, a primary dosing method for quality conscious consumers who want to control their dosage and avoid ashwagandha side effects.

Who Shouldn’t Take Ashwagandha?

In general, Ashwagandha is thought to be safe when used in moderate amounts. Some people may need to avoid taking Ashwagandha, however, including those who:

  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Take medication to lower blood sugar
  • Take medication affecting blood pressure
  • Have thyroid issues
  • Have stomach ulcers
  • Have an autoimmune conditions

Additionally, those taking any type of medication or receiving any clinical treatment for anxiety should talk to their doctor about adding Ashwagandha to their wellness regimen.

Ashwagandha Side Effects FAQ

Can you take Ashwagandha everyday?

Yes, taking ashwagandha daily is safe, but you should work with your doctor to create a dosing routine that works with your current wellness plan and health goals.

Is Ashwagandha FDA approved?

Ashwagandha is not an FDA approved medication, but it is permitted for use as a dietary supplement. Supplements are not regulated in the same manner as prescription drugs, so it’s important that you ensure that you only purchase Ashwagandha from a high-quality source.

Does Ashwagandha make you gain weight?

Ashwagandha has not been linked to weight gain in any significant capacity. It is thought to help reduce stress which may help aid in weight loss efforts.

Does Ashwagandha affect the heart?

Because Ashwagandha may help reduce stress and improve blood blow, it’s thought to have multiple heart-health benefits. More research is needed to understand how this may work, but Ashwagandha may be able to reduce cortisol levels to help balance blood pressure and heart rate.


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