Is the ‘Ashwagandha’ Herb Safe to Consume?

Why Is Ashwagandha Popular in Ayurveda?

Ashwagandha is an ancient and popular herb native to India and many parts of Southeast Asia. It is one of the pivotal herbs used in the Ayurvedic system of medicine. Ayurveda is an alternative and natural system of medicine with origins in the Indian continent for 3,000 years. Ashwagandha, an ancient herb with a rich history, has been used in traditional practices for centuries. Its botanical name is Withania somnifera, and it is also known as "winter cherry" in Western countries. ‘Ashwa’ in Sanskrit means horse, and ‘gandha’ means smell. Ashwagandha is used as a household remedy for common ailments in India. Further, it is popular due to its aphrodisiac (a substance that increases libido) properties in aged individuals. With the global import of ayurvedic products, Ashwagandha supplements are in trend and available worldwide. They are known for their multifaceted uses ranging from stress and anxiety relief to improving concentration and preventing fatigue. Ashwagandha is sold in many forms, such as capsules, teas, or powders.

What Are the Potential Health Benefits of Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha is compared to Eleutherococcus senticosus (Siberian Ginseng) and Chinese Ginseng for its properties. It has various health benefits.

1. Diabetes Mellitus: Research shows that patients suffering from diabetes mellitus (DM) had reduced blood sugar levels and improved hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c, a parameter for short-term control of DM) after prolonged Ashwagandha intake. However, these are researches from limited surveys, and more trials need to be conducted with large sample sizes. Also, evidence is needed to establish Ashwagandha effects in the full-fledged treatment of DM.

2. Male Fertility: Limited research shows that this herb can have a significant role in boosting male fertility by improving testosterone production. A small review involving four recent studies demonstrated the efficacy of Ashwagandha treatment in a few males. The subjects (suffering from fertility issues or low sperm count) of the treatment showed increased sperm concentration and improved sperm motility post-treatment.

3. Stress and Anxiety: Ashwagandha is a potent medicine for stress and anxiety reduction in many individuals. According to research, there are specific substances called adaptogens present in Ashwagandha. These adaptogens may aid in relieving stress and control levels of stress mediators. The impact of Ashwagandha on stress mediators that cause lowered immunity, such as cortisol, has been studied.

4. Joint Pains: Ashwagandha is a painkiller that soothes the nervous system from pain. Also, it has powerful anti-arthritic properties that are widely accepted and documented.

5. Neuro-regeneration: Ashwagandha root extract shows nerve-regenerating activity. Studies show that Ashwagandha and its metabolites can promote the growth of nerves after administration for one week. Also, treatment with Ashwagandha extract can prevent changes in antioxidant enzyme activities in Parkinson’s and Alzheimer's disease and reverse the neurodegeneration. Therefore, Ashwagandha may help protect from nerve injury in such conditions.

6. Miscellaneous Conditions:

• Ashwagandha is under trial for cancer prevention, anemia improvement (due to increased hemoglobin), and improving cognitive functions. But research is limited regarding the benefits of Ashwagandha in these conditions.
• Studies also show that it improves sleep quality in certain individuals. It also leads to faster onset of sleep. As a result, it is promising in insomnia (lack of sleep) patients.
• The studies of Ashwagandha's activities in the inhibition of tumor growth have shown evidence that this herb may be extremely effective in improving the white cell count (WBC) and function (which are reduced in chemotherapy).
• Ashwagandha for uterine fibroid tumors shows reduced uterine bleeding tendencies and fibroid disappearance after treatment.
• Another vital use of the herb is in the last stage of lung cancer.
• Ashwagandha is described as a nervine tonic in studies. Syrups, rejuvenators, and vitalizers containing Ashwagandha can reduce disease and induce immunity and longevity in individuals.

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Ashwagandha?

There are many reported side effects of Ashwagandha. These can occur more frequently in individuals who are on certain systemic medications. Therefore, one must consult the healthcare provider regarding the dosage and consumption of Ashwagandha. Also, if encountered, the following side effects must be reported to the healthcare provider.

• Mild to moderate sleepiness or frequent drowsiness.

• Stomach discomfort.

• Loose motions.

• Vertigo (spinning sensation).

• Nasal blockage or congestion.

• Cough.

• Decrease in general appetite.

• Nausea.

• Constipation.

• Skin rashes.

Who Should Avoid Ashwagandha?

1. As Ashwagandha is used in the treatment of male fertility by increasing testosterone levels, it should be avoided in patients suffering from prostate cancer.

2. Patients on medications such as benzodiazepines and barbiturates (anticonvulsants) should avoid Ashwagandha because of its sedative effect.

3. Pregnant women must refrain from taking Ashwagandha due to its abortive effects.

4. Individuals with hyperthyroidism (increased thyroid activity) should avoid Ashwagandha due to its potential of increasing thyroid hormone levels after long-term use.

What Are the Important Facts About Ashwagandha?

The dosing of Ashwagandha prescribed by an Ayurvedic physician ranges between 0.01 to 0.04 ounces. The results depend on its effectiveness and indications in different health conditions. However, the wide dosing range of Ashwagandha makes research difficult on this herb making it a reason for the inconclusive evidence about its benefits.

It is important to check the information on the Ashwagandha supplement or the product purchased. One must also check for the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) organic stamp on the product. If the product is certified by USDA, it contains about 95 percent organic ingredients deemed good for general health. The certification label is pertinent because many supplements are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Conclusion

To conclude, although Ashwagandha is an excellent and effective traditional herb, it is wise to consult a healthcare provider before consuming the supplements. It is because the individual medical history and dietary needs should be correlated before incorporating them into the daily regimen. Further, one must know its side effects and potential drug interactions before consumption.