6 Medications Not To Mix With Ashwagandha Supplements

Positive impact of Ashwagandha on cardiorespiratory fitness was also demonstrated with increases in VO2max 40. Compared to placebo, Ashwagandha was also significantly better at decreasing muscle fatigue measured via Perceived Recovery Scores 45. Authors also performed a Bayesian meta-analysis and concluded that future studies will also bring positive effects 13. Current literature on Ashwagandha and sports performance has some shortcomings. Total number of studies is very low, with even fewer performed on trained subjects.

Biochemical studies confirmed the activation of heat shock, the reduction of mutant huntingtin aggregates, and the improvement of striatal function in the brain in mice. In addition, withaferin A significantly reduced inflammatory processes, as noted by reduced microglia activity 30,31. It has been shown to modulate pituitary functions, improve thyroid gland homeostasis, regulate adrenal activity, and exert a multifaceted influence on the reproductive system. Some studies have assessed subjective sexual performance, reporting improvements in sexual desire, arousal, satisfaction, and overall quality of life in both women and men taking Ashwagandha supplements. Ashwagandha’s stress-reducing properties and its ability to lower cortisol levels are crucial in the context of reproductive health. High cortisol levels can interfere with the HPG axis, making the reduction in cortisol production a valuable aspect of enhancing reproductive function.

Recent systematic reviews showed that supplementing stressed adults with Ashwagandha can decrease morning cortisol levels, indicating stress-relieving properties 7. Several studies presented benefits of Ashwagandha e.g. in fertility problems 8, anxiety 9, metabolic disorders such as dyslipidaemia, insulin resistance and diabetes 10, cognitive function 11, and obsessive-compulsive disorders 12. Thyroid imbalances can affect people of all ages and genders, but women are more likely to develop thyroid disorders than men.

Ashwagandha Effects on Thyroid Hormones In People with Bipolar Disorder

It is also important to avoid certain foods and substances that can negatively impact thyroid health, such as processed foods, caffeine, and alcohol. Quitting smoking is also recommended, as smoking has been linked to an increased risk of thyroid disease. In addition to the synthroid l10 aforementioned natural remedies, there are other lifestyle changes that can support thyroid health. Regular exercise, stress management techniques like meditation and yoga, and getting enough sleep can all contribute to a healthy thyroid function. Ashwagandha is considered asafe herbal supplement for most people to take.

Metabolic health

  • Since ancient times, it has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine as a substance that strengthens the nervous system.
  • Individual variability, potential side effects, and interactions with other supplements and medications must be considered.
  • Participants were instructed to take 1 capsule (with 84 mg withanolide glycosides), once daily after dinner with 250 mL of water.
  • These properties are attributed to the wealth of active substances found within the plant, making it a subject of extensive research and interest.

The thyroid gland produces two hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), which play a crucial role in regulating metabolism and energy expenditure. Any imbalance in these hormones can lead to various symptoms such as weight gain or loss, tiredness, forgetfulness, and changes in mood. Some common causes of thyroid imbalances include poor nutrition, stress, hormonal changes, and autoimmune disorders.

How Does Ashwagandha Affect the Thyroid for Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism?

The multitude of active substances and the wide hormonal problems faced by modern society sparked our interest in the topic of Ashwagandha’s impact on this system. Somnifera can help normalize the functions of the human endocrine system in the future. Ashwagandha can also be used in palliative care, relieving uncomfortable symptoms as thyroid hormones are being rebalanced and underlying imbalances are being corrected. Clinical trials have shown ashwagandha to be effective in supporting anxiety, insomnia, poor cognition, joint pain, and muscle fatigue – common symptoms of thyroid disorders.

off your first Thyroid Test

  • Studies have also been conducted in older people aged 65–80 years to assess the safety, efficacy, and tolerability of Ashwagandha root extract.
  • Thyroid diseases are among the many conditions that pose significant problems in the 21st century.
  • The concern would be blood pressure drops too low if combining high blood pressure medications and ashwagandha.
  • The values of the above indicators at the end of the study showed no significant differences between the group using the extract (40 subjects) and the group taking placebo (40 subjects).

For this reason, it is best to avoid taking it with other medications that can cause sleepiness or drowsiness or affect breathing. Supplements that may lower blood pressure include arginine, niacin, and omega-3 fatty acids. MS prepared the initial draft of the manuscript and participated in all discussions and revisions. Practical tools to lower your chance of an autoimmune flare-up due to stress. Because numerous benefits come from taking ashwagandha, more research will help us understand the extent of how much benefit derives from this herb.

Phytotherapy with Ashwagandha root is becoming more common, but it is important to note that the preparations are not recommended for all patients without controlling the other therapies they are receiving. Although preparations containing vitania sluggard root have proven efficacy in relieving the above-mentioned symptoms, their use in people with hyperthyroidism is contraindicated, as they exacerbate the effects of the disease. As studies show, this raw material increases the concentration of 3,3’,5-triiodothyronine (T3) and tetraiodothyronine (T4), which is unfavourable in hyperthyroidism 144. The use of Ashwagandha is also considered in the context of anti-diabetic effects. The antidiabetic properties of the raw material were interestingly described in a review paper by Durg et al. 63. Animal studies have shown its ability to lower blood glucose levels 73,74,75,76,77.

Your healthcare provider will monitor your levels if you start taking ashwagandha. Ashwagandha has the potential to interact with certain medications, including drugs that lower blood sugar, affect the immune system, and regulate thyroid hormones. Due to its anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory qualities, Ashwagandha has a potential to benefit metabolic health. Systematic review and meta-analysis showed that a supplementation with Ashwagandha can improve weight loss, blood glucose and glycosylated haemoglobin, presenting a utility in managing insulin resistance or diabetes.

Can Ashwagandha Benefit the Endocrine System?—A Review

Stress is defined as the body’s biological response to external or internal stimuli. The compensatory response resulting from stress is called stress response and depends on the type of stress, its frequency, and its duration. It has been observed that stress as a factor disturbing homeostasis can not only exacerbate the symptoms of many diseases, but can also be their root cause.