Are you considering taking Ashwagandha during pregnancy but are uncertain about its safety?
This ancient herbal supplement has become famous for its potential to reduce stress and relieve anxiety. However, when it comes to prenatal care, it is crucial to understand the safety of Ashwagandha and how it may affect both you and your developing baby.
This guide will explore the traditional uses of Withania somnifera, also known as Indian ginseng, its effects on pregnancy hormones, and its safety across each trimester.
We’ll also discuss potential side effects and natural alternatives to support stress management during pregnancy. By the end, you’ll understand whether Ashwagandha is a safe option during your prenatal wellness journey.
Traditional Uses of Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha, or Withania somnifera, has been a cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years.
They are often referred to as Indian Winter cherry or Indian ginseng; this powerful herb has been historically used to boost vitality and resilience.
This substance is used extensively in Ayurvedic medicine due to its adaptogenic properties, which enhance the body's capacity to handle stress.
Historical Background in Ayurvedic Medicine
In Ayurvedic medicine, Ashwagandha is classified as a tonic Rasayana. It is believed to rejuvenate the body and mind, promoting long-term vitality and mental clarity.
The herb has been used in traditional healing practices for over 3,000 years and remains one of the most respected in Indian medical tradition.
Ashwagandha extract was commonly used to treat various ailments, ranging from stress and fatigue to cognitive decline.
Common Health Benefits
Traditionally, Ashwagandha root extract has been utilized for various health benefits. Common uses include sharpening cognitive abilities, reducing stress and anxiety, and improving sleep quality.
Studies suggest that Ashwagandha supplements help the body manage stress more efficiently by modulating cortisol levels.
This ability to reduce stress and promote balance in the body makes Ashwagandha a popular choice for improving overall health and vitality.
Moreover, it has been linked to reproductive health and is often used as a natural remedy to support hormonal balance. Modern scientific research continues to back up some of these traditional claims.
A meta-analysis of clinical trials and a systematic review suggest that ashwagandha may boost mood, enhance sleep quality, and help the body become more resilient to stress. These findings further highlight its potential as a holistic health booster.
Ashwagandha and Pregnancy Hormones
The body undergoes profound hormonal changes during pregnancy, and understanding how Ashwagandha interacts with these changes is critical.
Some studies have examined Ashwagandha’s effect on hormones like cortisol and thyroid hormones, though research is still limited, especially concerning its safety during pregnancy (1).
Interactions with Cortisol and Stress
The potential for Ashwagandha to lower cortisol levels may have positive implications for pregnant women managing high stress levels.
A placebo-controlled study found that 300 mg of Ashwagandha root extract taken twice daily significantly reduced cortisol levels.
However, despite these promising results, more research is needed to determine whether it is safe during pregnancy.
Effects on Thyroid Function
Ashwagandha has been shown to influence thyroid function. In some cases, individuals with hypothyroidism who took Ashwagandha root extract experienced improvements in their thyroid hormone levels.
However, for those with hyperthyroidism, Ashwagandha may increase thyroid hormone levels, potentially exacerbating the condition.
Impact on Reproductive Hormones
Although Ashwagandha has been found to affect reproductive hormones in animal studies, the effects of Withania somnifera on pregnancy-related hormones remain unclear (2).
Because this field of study is still in its infancy, speaking with a healthcare professional before taking Ashwagandha supplements while pregnant is imperative.
Evaluating the Safety of Ashwagandha in Each Trimester
The safety of Ashwagandha during pregnancy is a topic requiring careful consideration (3). Limited scientific evidence exists on its use during pregnancy, and safety concerns persist across all trimesters.
- First Trimester: The first trimester is critical for your baby’s development. Although Ashwagandha has potential stress-reducing properties, there’s evidence suggesting it may increase the risk of miscarriage. Therefore, it’s advised to avoid Ashwagandha supplements during this sensitive period.
- Second and Third Trimesters: As you move into the later stages of pregnancy, the risks associated with Ashwagandha remain uncertain. Given the lack of research and clear guidelines on safe dosage, it is best to avoid Ashwagandha supplements throughout pregnancy.
Alternatives to Ashwagandha During Pregnancy
If Ashwagandha is not the best choice for you, there are safe alternatives to manage stress during pregnancy (4).
Consider adaptogens like chamomile and red raspberry leaf, generally considered safe after the first trimester. Additionally, practicing prenatal yoga and meditation can provide natural relief from stress and anxiety (5).
Final Thoughts
Using Ashwagandha during pregnancy is a decision that should be made with caution.
Although this herb has shown promise in traditional and modern medicine for reducing stress and balancing hormones, its safety during pregnancy is not well-established.
Given the lack of comprehensive research, it's best to avoid Ashwagandha supplements during pregnancy and opt for safer alternatives.
🌱 Unlock the natural benefits of Ashwagandha for a calmer, happier you! ✨💪
FAQs
What are the possible side effects of taking Ashwagandha during pregnancy?
Taking Ashwagandha while pregnant can lead to side effects such as drowsiness, stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting.
Additionally, there are rare cases linking liver injury to the use of Ashwagandha supplements.
Because of these potential risks, ashwagandha should not be taken during pregnancy or lactation.
Is it safe to use Ashwagandha with birth control pills?
Combining Ashwagandha with birth control pills is generally considered safe.
Current studies suggest that Ashwagandha does not affect the metabolism of birth control pills.
Using Ashwagandha for a short period (up to three months) is likely safe for most individuals.
Are there any supplements or medications that should not be combined with Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha may interact with several types of medications and supplements. It should be used cautiously with sedatives, blood thinners, thyroid supplements, immune-suppressing drugs, and medications for anxiety, high blood pressure, and diabetes.
Additionally, it might interact with other supplements that induce sleepiness, such as St. John's wort, Kava, Valerian, and others.
Can Ashwagandha improve fertility in women?
Ashwagandha might enhance female fertility indirectly through its potential benefits on sexual desire, hormonal balance, stress reduction, and overall mental health.
A 2022 study highlighted Ashwagandha's positive effects on sexual health in women diagnosed with hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD).
Related Studies
Title: Is It Safe to Take Ashwagandha During Pregnancy?
The existing literature indicates insufficient scientific evidence to support the safety of Ashwagandha during pregnancy.
It is often advised that pregnant women avoid this supplement due to the lack of clear dosage guidelines and potential side effects, which can include nausea and diarrhea, even in non-pregnant individuals.
Link: https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/ashwagandha-pregnancy
Title: What not to mix with ashwagandha? Interactions + examples natu.care
The potential risks to fetal development are not worth taking.
Some sources suggest that Ashwagandha may have abortifacient properties, which could increase the risk of miscarriage.
However, comprehensive studies examining its effects on fetal development still need to be included, making it difficult to draw definitive conclusions.
Link: https://natu.care/uk/plants/ashwagandha-interactions
Title: What Is Ashwagandha and How Does It Work?
Certain drugs, such as those for diabetes, high blood pressure, and thyroid disorders, may interact with Ashwagandha.
This herb can lower blood sugar and blood pressure, which could lead to adverse effects when combined with medications designed for these conditions.
Women who are pregnant or intend to become pregnant must speak with their doctors before taking Ashwagandha or any other herbal supplements.
Link: https://www.rxlist.com/ashwagandha/generic-drug.htm
Title: Ashwagandha: Uses, Side Effects, and More
There is evidence suggesting that it might increase the risk of miscarriages.
While some animal studies have shown no fetal abnormalities, the overall consensus in human health literature advises against its use during pregnancy due to potential risks associated with its consumption.
In conclusion, pregnant women are generally advised to avoid taking Ashwagandha supplements unless specifically instructed to do so by a healthcare provider due to the lack of scientific evidence and possible risks involved.
Link: https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-953/ashwagandha
Title: Ashwagandha
Remember that, unlike prescription drugs, dietary supplements like ashwagandha are not governed by U.S. laws. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) before they hit the market.
Concerns regarding product safety and quality are raised by this lack of regulation, especially for expectant mothers who may be more susceptible to adverse side effects from untested supplements.
Link: https://www.msdmanuals.com/home/special-subjects/dietary-supplements-and-vitamins/ashwagandha
