Serotonin syndrome can even result in death. Talk with a healthcare provider about the right ashwagandha dosage for your needs. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; seizures; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat. Verywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. Arch Pathol Lab Med 2007;131:1298-303. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/know/clinical-effectiveness-terms. Therefore, before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the products you use. In rare cases, ashwagandha may cause liver damage. Its scientific name is Withania somnifera Dunal, and it belongs to a class of herbs called rasayana, praised for their revitalizing effects on health. This dosing has also been associated with improvements in memory. Brittany Lubeck, RD, is a nutrition writer and registered dietitian with a master's degree in clinical nutrition. UpToDate, Inc. and its affiliates disclaim any warranty or liability relating to this information or the use thereof. View abstract. This includes: As with many other herbs and supplements, ashwagandha has a risk of side effects. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Sehgal, V. N., Verma, P., and Bhattacharya, S. N. Fixed-drug eruption caused by ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): a widely used Ayurvedic drug. However, you should not stop taking any prescribed medication. They should also be kept from direct sunlight and stored in their original bottle or container. Vaishnavi, K., Saxena, N., Shah, N., Singh, R., Manjunath, K., Uthayakumar, M., Kanaujia, S. P., Kaul, S. C., Sekar, K., and Wadhwa, R. Differential activities of the two closely related withanolides, Withaferin A and Withanone: bioinformatics and experimental evidences. J Funct Morphol Kinesiol. They also are not very good drugs, because they have multiple potentially . Sud Khyati S, Thaker B. Since you don't mention any drugs in your question, we'll list some of the potential interactions below. Ashwagandha may also contain withanolides, which are thought to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. 1985;23(4):177-183. View abstract. View abstract. J Diet Suppl. It should not be confused with Physalis alkekengi, which is also referred to as winter cherry. Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Ashwagandha, NYU Langone Medical Center: Ashwagandha Interactions You Should Know About, NYU Langone Medical Center: Benzodiazepines, "Therapeutic Drug Monitoring"; Herbal Supplements and Therapeutic Drug Monitoring; A. Dasgupta; April 2008, University of Maryland Medical Center: Anaphylaxis. Ashwagandha can increase the activity of the immune system. Afewerky HK, Ayodeji AE, Tiamiyu BB, et al. No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease. The concern would be blood pressure drops too lowif combining high blood pressure medications and ashwagandha. TSH Suppression. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. View abstract. Investigation of CYP2B6, 3A4 and -esterase interactions of Withania somnifera (L.) dunal in human liver microsomes and HepG2 cells. This article provides a review of the potential uses of ashwagandha. The comparative effect of milk fortified with Aswagandha, Aswagandha and Punarnava in children - a double-blind study. It is also recommended that people with hormone-sensitive prostate cancer avoid using ashwagandha due to possible hormone changes caused by the herb. Antioxidants (Basel). Because ashwagandha supports immune system function, it might interact with medications designed to reduce immune system activity, known as immunosuppressants, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. View abstract. 1981;19(3):245-249. Ashwagandha may be toxic to the liver (hepatotoxic). Phytotherapy Research 1989;3(5):201-206. Sleep Med. While supplement and drug-induced serotonin syndrome poses a major risk for people taking SSRIs, other antidepressants can require stricter dietary changes. What to Look for When Choosing Ashwagandha Supplements, Uses of Lavender: Everything You Need to Know, I Tried Taking Ashwagandha and It Gave Me Crazy Vivid Dreams, Natural withanolides in the treatment of chronic diseases, Pharmacological evaluation of ashwagandha highlighting its healthcare claims, safety, and toxicity aspects, Potential clinical applications of Ashwagandha (, Adaptogenic and anxiolytic effects of Ashwagandha root extract in healthy adults: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical study, An investigation into the stress-relieving and pharmacological actions of an ashwagandha (, An alternative treatment for anxiety: a systematic review of human trial results reported for the Ayurvedic herb ashwagandha (, Efficacy and safety of Ashwagandha root extract on cognitive functions in healthy, stressed adults: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial on the effect of Ashwagandha (, Safety of ashwagandha root extract: a randomized, placebo-controlled, study in healthy volunteers, Ashwagandha-induced liver injury: a case series from Iceland and the US Drug-Induced Liver Injury Network, DNA damage by withanone as a potential cause of liver toxicity observed for herbal products of, Effects of L-Theanine administration on stress-related symptoms and cognitive functions in healthy adults: a randomized controlled trial, Vitamin D supplementation improves anxiety but not depression symptoms in patients with vitamin D deficiency, Vitamin E, turmeric and saffron in treatment of Alzheimer's disease, Tart cherry juice in athletes: a literature review and commentary, Dietary supplements: what you need to know. Anbalagan, K. and Sadique, J. View abstract. It may also interact with other herbs, supplements, and even foods. Available for Android and iOS devices. Brittany Lubeck, RD, is a nutrition writer and registered dietitian with a master's degree in clinical nutrition. The body naturally produces thyroid hormones. Devi, P. U., Sharada, A. C., and Solomon, F. E. In vivo growth inhibitory and radiosensitizing effects of withaferin A on mouse Ehrlich ascites carcinoma. Cent.Nerv.Syst.Agents Med.Chem. In comparison, a small human trial published in 2022 showed additional proof that ashwagandha may be helpful for people living with anxiety. I am wondering if it is okay to take with my prescriptions. Of the 58 participants in the study, those who took ashwagandha had reduced levels of cortisol (a stress hormone) as well as lower perceived stress scores by the end of the eight-week study. This product may interfere with some lab tests. Altern Med Rev 2000;5:334-46. Ashwagandha might increase how much thyroid hormone the body produces. Archana R, Namasivayam A. Antistressor effect of Withania somnifera. Ashwagandha may lower blood sugar (i.e. Just be sure to choose a supplement from a reputable manufacturer and follow the . This means not enough is known about either the safety or effectiveness of taking daily ashwagandha for an extended period of time. Ashwagandha is thought to have a positive impact on chronic stress. View abstract. Liver damage. Nat.Prod.Res 2005;19(6):567-571. Effects of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) on physical performance: systematic review and Bayesian meta-analysis. Some of these sedative medications include clonazepam (Klonopin), diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), and others. The specific components of physical performance included strength and power, endurance, and fatigue/recovery. Akhgarjand C, Asoudeh F, Bagheri A, et al. 1988;26(11):877-882. View abstract. Ambiye VR, Langade D, Dongre S, Aptikar P, Kulkarni M, Dongre A. Sometimes, these supplements are stand-alone products or multivitamins; in other cases, they are mixed in with healthy food products, like spirulina, chlorella or herbal products. After eight weeks, statistically significant improvements were seen in both aerobic capacity and recovery for those who took ashwagandha. 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. View abstract. Is Fish Oil Dangerous With Antidepressants? CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. 1965;9(1):9-15. Dhuley, J. N. Therapeutic efficacy of Ashwagandha against experimental aspergillosis in mice. J Ayurveda Integr Med. In general, Ashwagandha is thought to be safe when used in moderate amounts. Notably, ashwagandha doses typically do not exceed 1,000 milligrams per day for up to 12 weeks. doi:10.7759/cureus.6466, Lopresti AL, Smith SJ, Malvi H, Kodgule R. An investigation into the stress-relieving and pharmacological actions of an ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. However, tyramine-rich foods like cheeses, beer and other fermented products are dangerous for people taking MAOIs. At the end of the study, significant improvements in general memory and immediate memory were seen in the ashwagandha group. DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug . Hydroxyzine has moderate interactions with at least 207 different drugs. Mishra LC, Singh BB, Dagenais S. Scientific basis for the therapeutic use of Withania somnifera (ashwagandha): a review. Nonetheless, additional large-scale, long-term studies would strengthen these findings. Safety studies have not been performed on these populations, so it's best to avoid using ashwagandha altogether while pregnant or breastfeeding. The plan to ashwagandha blood pressure medication interaction enter the company was does blood pressure medication make you put on weight quietly implemented the one from Hebei do hypertension medications affect sexuality University has already started the procedure the Yinchuan University s Zhou Qitian also agreed, and the next step is to do the school work Inner Mongolia can probiotics lower . Gopal S, Ajgaonkar A, Kanchi P, et al. Be sure to tell your doctor that you take this product if you are scheduled for surgery or tests. Researchers from a different study believe that withanone (Win), a bioactive substance found in ashwagandha, is to blame for the liver damage. Phytomedicine 2000;7(6):463-469. J Pharm Pharmacol 1998;50:1065-68. Many of the studies on ashwagandha have been performed in laboratory settings or on animal models, but some human trials do exist. Do not use this product if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant soon. Taking ashwagandha along with sedative medications might cause too much sleepiness. Dietary supplements: what you need to know. J Ethnopharmacol 1999;67:233-39. It is commonly used for stress. Long-term safety studies on ashwagandha are lacking. Bonilla DA, Moreno Y, Gho C, Petro JL, Odriozola-Martnez A, Kreider RB. We have said that the elements ashwagandha meds of will ashwagandha interact with diabetic meds cause, ashwagandha interact diabetic principle and ontology are the objects of our research. These supplements may contain similar active ingredients or have potential uses that are like those of ashwagandha. Due to an overall lack of scientific evidence, there are no standard dosage guidelines for ashwagandha. View abstract. Curr Res Toxicol. Be sure to confirm new supplements fit your dietary needs or preferences. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Kaur, K., Rani, G., Widodo, N., Nagpal, A., Taira, K., Kaul, S. C., and Wadhwa, R. Evaluation of the anti-proliferative and anti-oxidative activities of leaf extract from in vivo and in vitro raised Ashwagandha. 2021 Feb 11;6(1):20. doi: 10.3390/jfmk6010020. Additionally, ashwagandha may increase testosterone levels in the body. In Ayurvedic medicine, ashwagandha has been used for centuries as an alternative treatment for anxiety. Ashwagandha can react with certain medications and supplements you may already take, and result in adverse effects. Therefore, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before adding ashwagandha to a weight loss plan, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking any medications . Complement Ther Med. One systematic review found just five human trials that studied ashwagandha as an anxiety treatment. According to one study that examined ashwagandha's effect on athletics, ashwagandha may improve both endurance and recovery in healthy adult athletes. Hi, I was recommended to take ashwagandha. Read our. J Ethnopharmacol 1998;62:209-14. Read more: 15 Celebrities Who Struggle With Anxiety and Depression. Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. ashwaganda: Dosing, contraindications, side effects, and pill pictures - epocrates online Drug Lookup: Browse: Drugs Alt Meds Select a medication above to begin. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2021. It's worth noting that a drawback of both these studies is that they were performed on small sample sizes. Cancer Lett 2000;148:9-17. Prez-Gmez J, Villafaina S, Adsuar JC, Merellano-Navarro E, Collado-Mateo D. Effects of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) on VO2max: A systematic review and meta-analysis. . A study compared ashwagandha to a placebo to determine whether the herb would have a positive effect on insomnia. The roots can be used topically as a poult. According to the Cleveland Clinic, there are six different types of medications commonly used to treat depression. 2019;98(37):e17186. Copyright 2023 UpToDate, Inc. and its affiliates and/or licensors. Its effects on arterial blood pressure in anaesthetized dogs. Effect of an ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera) root extract on climacteric symptoms in women during perimenopause: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Aerobic capacity and recovery were assessed for all participants throughout the study. Studies on immunomodulatory activity of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) extracts in experimental immune inflammation. 2022;15(9):1067-1080. doi:10.1080/17512433.2022.2121699, Salve J, Pate S, Debnath K, Langade D. Adaptogenic and anxiolytic effects of Ashwagandha root extract in healthy adults: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical study. Davis, L. and Kuttan, G. Effect of Withania somnifera on DMBA induced carcinogenesis. 2023 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved, Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. In our latest question and answer, the pharmacist discusses whether or not ashwagandha supplements interact with prescription drugs. Read more: How Vegans Can Get All Their Nutrients (Without Taking Supplements). It's important to keep all supplements out of reach of small children and pets who may accidentally ingest more than they should. Some herbal supplements with antidepressant properties are safe to consume alongside medications. Bhat, J., Damle, A., Vaishnav, P. P., Albers, R., Joshi, M., and Banerjee, G. In vivo enhancement of natural killer cell activity through tea fortified with Ayurvedic herbs. 2004;42(12):2015-2020. Ashwagandha supplements come in various forms, including capsules, gummies, caplets, liquid extracts, and powders. Ashwagandha appears to stimulate your endocrine system . Nutrients. Anbalagan K and Sadique J. Withania somnifera (ashwagandha), a rejuvenating herbal drug which controls alpha-2 macroglobulin synthesis during inflammation. J Ethnopharmacol 1991;33:91-5. Herbal supplements, like St. John's wort or garcinia cambogia, are much more likely to affect the functionality of your antidepressants compared to vitamins or mineral tablets. Ashwagandha might lower blood sugar levels. Adv Exp Med Biol. She founded the Fad Free Nutrition Blog and Nutricion al Grano websites and is based in Texas. Therefore, before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the . ; Vomiting and nausea. Sedatives: Since ashwagandha can both energize and induce restorative sleep, it might negate or amplify the effect of other sedative drugs, especially the benzodiazepines. View abstract. However, if you were to combine St. John's wort with antidepressants like SSRIs, you could end up with disastrous results. Read more: 8 Warning Signs of Depression You Shouldn't Ignore. . View abstract. Malhotra, C. L., Mehta, V. L., Prasad, K., and Das, P. K. Studies on Withania ashwagandha, Kaul. PLoS One. V. The effect of total alkaloids (ashwagandholine) on the central nervous system. . Integr Cancer Ther. View abstract. Sriranjini SJ, Pal PK, Devidas KV, Ganpathy S. Improvement of balance in progressive degenerative cerebellar ataxias after Ayurvedic therapy: a preliminary report. Some benzodiazepine drugs include alprazolam, known as the brand Xanax; clonazepam, known as Klonopin; diazepam, known as Valium; lorazepam, known as Ativan; and triazolam, known as Halcion. Some of the more compelling potential uses of ashwagandha are outlined below. ashwagandha and guggul used for thyroid conditions and find out if they are beneficial. Cureus. Effects of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) on physical performance: systematic review and Bayesian meta-analysis. View abstract. Ashwagandha can interact with diabetes, blood pressure, and immunosuppressant medications. Always speak with a healthcare provider before taking a supplement to ensure that the supplement and dosage are appropriate for your individual needs. Be sure to talk with your doctor about this and all drugs you are taking, especially digoxin. ", Mayo Clinic: "Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)", Cleveland Clinic: "Depression Medicines: Risks / Benefits", Shanghai Archives of Psychiatry: "Use of Antipsychotics in the Treatment of Depressive Disorders", Food and Drug Administration: "Vitamins and Minerals Chart", World Journal of Biological Chemistry: "Complexity of Vitamin E Metabolism", NCBI Bookshelf: "Depression in Adults With a Chronic Physical Health Problem: Treatment and Management", Journal of Medicine and Life: "Nutrition and Depression at the Forefront of Progress", Harvard Health Publishing: "Cytochrome P450 Enzymes and Psychiatric Drugs", Complementary Therapies in Medicine Journal: "Evaluation of the Efficacy of Withania Somnifera (Ashwagandha) Root Extract in Patients With Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trial", Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), Norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitors (NDRIs), Noncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonists. However, these results have not been proven in humans. Third-party agencies like these confirm that supplements actually contain what they say they do, but they do not approve medical claims. What Happens If I Take Too Much Ashwagandha? Indian J Exp Biol. In recent years, some researchers have assessed how ashwagandha may benefit physical performance. A recent study out of India compared varying doses of ashwagandha to a placebo for the treatment of stress. Supplement use should be individualized and vetted by a healthcare professional, such as a registered dietitian, pharmacist, or healthcare provider. Ashwagandha Root (Withania somnifera): Analytical, quality control, and therapuetic monograph. Acta Pol.Pharm. 1998;60(2):173-178. Herb-drug interactions. This interference is likely due to a similarity in chemical structure, according to Drugs.com. Ashwagandha's cortisol-lowering effects may be responsible. Always talk with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen. Withania somnifera, known as ashwagandha, has a role in ayurvedic medicine for a wide range of health conditions. Chauhan S, Srivastava MK, Pathak AK. Kelgane SB, Salve J, Sampara P, Debnath K. Efficacy and tolerability of ashwagandha root extract in the elderly for improvement of general well-being and sleep: A prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. However, even if supplements are third-party tested, they are necessarily safe for all or effective in general. Taking ashwagandha along with these medications might decrease the effects of these medications. Last updated on Feb 3, 2023. Its botanical name is Withania somnifera and it is also known as "Indian ginseng . Effect of standardized root extract of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) on well-being and sexual performance in adult males: a randomized controlled trial. Are there any side effects of ashwagandha? This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Ashwagandha may interact with certain drugs by enhancing or negating their actions. It may also interact with medications for these conditions. Some barbiturates include phenobarbital, pentobarbital and secobarbital. Association of l-DOPA with recovery following Ayurveda medication in Parkinson's Disease. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you. 2019;11(9):e5797. Withania somnifera extract. O'Connor J, Lindsay K, Baker C, Kirby J, Hutchins A, Harris M. The impact of ashwagandha on stress, sleep quality, and food cravings in college students: quantitative analysis of a double-blind randomized control trial. Is it safe to take ashwagandha every day? Immunomodulatory and CNS effects of sitoindosides 9 and 10, two new glycowithanolides from Withania somnifera. We can, however, make some educated guesses on drug interactions based on ashwagandha works, and the effects it is known to have. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider. When possible, choose a supplement tested by a trusted third party, such as U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP), ConsumerLab, or NSF. View abstract. Several supplements and herbs may act similarly to ashwagandha. An alternative treatment for anxiety: a systematic review of human trial results reported for the Ayurvedic herb ashwagandha (Withania somnifera). Indian J Physiol Pharmacol. Some research has proven that this may indeed be true. Ashwagandha has mild interactions with at least 29 different drugs. Compared to those who took the placebo, participants who took ashwagandha were found to have better visual memory, learning, and attention. Int Ayurvedic Med J 2013;1(5):1-7. Doctors prescribe immunosuppressants for people with conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and ulcerative colitis, and to prevent rejection of organ transplants. 2021;2:72-81. doi:10.1016/j.crtox.2021.02.002. View abstract. blood glucose). While the side effects of ashwagandha are minimal, some people may experience: Gastrointestinal upset. 2017 Jan;22(1):96-106 View abstract. View abstract. Feel free to send him an email at Hello@HelloPharmacist.com! View abstract. Cureus 2022;14(10):e30787. Ultimately, the supplements and foods you can safely ingest depend entirely on the antidepressant. From the study results, researchers concluded that ashwagandha improved memory and focus. 2017;10(3):96-100. doi:10.5935/1984-0063.20170018. It is also important to note that ashwagandha may interact with certain medications, such as immunosuppressants and sedatives. Ashwagandha has been traditionally used for anxiety, insomnia, aging, and other conditions that may be exacerbated by stress.