Ashwagandha has become increasingly popular for its potential health benefits.
As an adaptogen, it is well known to boost general well-being, increase energy levels, and assist the body in managing stress.
But if you’re breastfeeding, you might wonder whether it’s safe to use ashwagandha during this crucial time.
In this guide, we’ll examine the potential benefits and risks of taking ashwagandha while breastfeeding and what experts recommend.
What is Ashwagandha?
Withania somnifera, another name for ashwagandha, is an herb used for ages in Ayurvedic treatment.
As an adaptogen, it increases resilience and regulates hormones to assist the body in dealing with stress and anxiety.
Many people use ashwagandha to combat fatigue, improve focus, and enhance physical endurance.
In Ayurveda, ashwagandha is often recommended for postpartum recovery due to its ability to rejuvenate the body.
Traditionally, it’s believed to strengthen the immune system, balance hormones, and support mental clarity.
With such benefits, it’s no wonder many new mothers are curious about its effects while breastfeeding.
However, it is crucial to know if a supplement is safe for you and your unborn child before including it in your regimen.
Can You Take Ashwagandha While Breastfeeding?
The short answer is that the safety of ashwagandha during breastfeeding could be better studied.
There’s a lack of extensive scientific research on how ashwagandha affects breastfeeding mothers and their infants.
Because of this, most healthcare providers recommend caution.
It’s possible that active compounds from ashwagandha could pass into breast milk, though it’s unclear how this might affect the baby.
Given the uncertainty, it’s critical to consult with your healthcare provider before using ashwagandha while breastfeeding.
Depending on your specific health situation, Doctors may weigh the potential benefits against the risks.
Some mothers report positive experiences using ashwagandha during breastfeeding, but anecdotal evidence shouldn’t be the sole basis for decision-making.
Since each mother and child are different, expert advice is always advised.
Benefits of Ashwagandha for Breastfeeding Mothers
Ashwagandha is widely known for its potential to reduce stress (1).
For breastfeeding mothers, managing stress is crucial, as elevated stress levels can negatively impact milk production and overall health.
Ashwagandha, a natural stress-reliever, may help breastfeeding mothers cope with the emotional and physical demands of caring for a newborn.
It can also help improve sleep quality, often disrupted during the postpartum phase.
Additionally, ashwagandha may help balance hormones, which can fluctuate postpartum (2).
Balanced hormone levels can support mood stabilization and reduce symptoms of postpartum anxiety.
For mothers who feel exhausted, ashwagandha may provide an energy boost.
Its ability to enhance stamina and endurance can be beneficial for managing the demands of motherhood.
However, it’s important to remember that while these benefits sound promising, they are primarily based on the general usage of ashwagandha, not specific research on breastfeeding women.
Risks and Side Effects of Ashwagandha While Breastfeeding
Despite its potential benefits, there are significant risks to consider when taking ashwagandha while breastfeeding.
Insufficient Safety Data: There is limited scientific research on the safety of ashwagandha for breastfeeding mothers and infants (3).
Compounds Passing Through Breast Milk: Active compounds in ashwagandha could potentially transfer to the infant via breast milk.
Infant Sensitivity: Infants have developing digestive and immune systems, making them more vulnerable to herbal compounds.
Allergic Reactions: Some infants may experience allergic reactions or digestive upset, although this is rare.
Medication Interactions: Ashwagandha may interact with medications, especially birth control pills, and could interfere with hormonal treatments (4).
Digestive Side Effects: Potential side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and mild digestive discomfort, which can vary between individuals.
These side effects are usually mild but may vary depending on the individual.
Expert Opinions on Ashwagandha Use During Breastfeeding
Health organizations like the NCCIH and WebMD advise caution when using herbal supplements during breastfeeding.
Because herbal supplements aren’t regulated as strictly as medications, their safety for breastfeeding mothers isn’t always well-established.
Ayurvedic practitioners, on the other hand, often recommend ashwagandha for postpartum recovery, believing it supports overall wellness.
In Ayurvedic traditions, ashwagandha is considered safe when used in moderation under professional guidance.
However, despite this traditional support, the lack of rigorous scientific data leaves many Western healthcare providers hesitant to recommend it to nursing mothers.
They stress the importance of erring on the side of caution, especially when it comes to the health of newborns.
Ultimately, expert opinions vary.
Most modern healthcare professionals will likely advise against ashwagandha use during breastfeeding unless there’s a clear and specific need, and only after consulting with your doctor.
How to Safely Use Ashwagandha if Breastfeeding
If you and your healthcare provider decide that ashwagandha is safe to use while breastfeeding, you can take some precautions to minimize any risks.
Start with a low dose.
Keep a close eye on your infant for any indications of discomfort, such as fussiness, gastrointestinal problems, or adjustments in feeding habits.
Should your infant exhibit any adverse reactions, immediately discontinue the supplement and seek medical advice.
Always choose high-quality, third-party-tested supplements.
This ensures you consume pure, uncontaminated products without harmful additives or ingredients.
It’s also essential to use ashwagandha in moderation.
Overusing any supplement, even if it is thought to be safe, might result in undesirable side effects or long-term problems.
Alternatives to Ashwagandha for Breastfeeding Mothers
If you’re concerned about using ashwagandha but still want to support your health while breastfeeding, there are alternative herbs and practices you can consider.
Known for its calming properties, chamomile is a herb that is generally safe to use during nursing.
It can encourage calmness and improve the caliber of your sleep.
Lavender, both as an essential oil and in teas, is another calming option that can reduce stress and promote better sleep.
It’s also safe for breastfeeding mothers when used appropriately.
Tulsi, another name for holy basil, is an adaptogenic herb that boosts immunity and reduces stress.
It’s traditionally used in Ayurveda and may be a safer alternative for breastfeeding mothers.
In addition to using herbs, lifestyle choices can help you deal with stress and exhaustion.
Prioritizing good nutrition, practicing meditation, and getting as much rest as possible can significantly enhance your well-being during this period.
For breastfeeding mothers looking for added support, incorporating natural supplements into your daily routine can help manage stress and improve overall well-being.
Final Thoughts
Ashwagandha may have numerous advantages for nursing moms, such as reducing stress, balancing hormones, and boosting vitality.
However, its safety during breastfeeding remains to be determined due to insufficient research.
Before adding ashwagandha to your routine, it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider.
They can help you weigh the potential benefits against the risks to you and your unborn child.
For those looking for alternatives, herbs like chamomile and lavender and lifestyle changes can offer similar benefits without the risks associated with ashwagandha.
Remember, your and your baby’s health is the top priority, so making informed choices is critical.
FAQs
Is ashwagandha safe to take while breastfeeding?
Ashwagandha’s safety during breastfeeding is not well-researched.
It’s best to consult your doctor before taking it.
Does ashwagandha affect milk supply?
There’s no evidence to suggest that ashwagandha directly impacts the milk supply.
However, it may help reduce stress, indirectly supporting milk production.
Can Ashwagandha help with postpartum depression?
Ashwagandha may help manage stress and anxiety, but it’s not a treatment for postpartum depression.
Consult your doctor for proper treatment options.
What are safer alternatives to ashwagandha while breastfeeding?
Chamomile, lavender, and holy basil are safer alternatives to ashwagandha for breastfeeding mothers (5).
How does ashwagandha affect the baby when breastfeeding?
There’s limited data on how ashwagandha affects babies.
Monitor your baby for any adverse reactions and consult your doctor if concerned.
Related Studies
1. Title: Stress-relieving and pharmacological actions of an ashwagandha extract in stressed adults
This study investigates the anxiolytic effects of ashwagandha on adults with high stress, demonstrating significant reductions in anxiety and cortisol levels after 60 days of treatment.
Link: https://journals.lww.com/md-journal/fulltext/2019/09130/an_investigation_into_the_stress_relieving_and.67.aspx
2. Title: The effects of ashwagandha on hormonal balance in women
This research highlights ashwagandha's potential to balance hormones in women by reducing cortisol levels and improving overall hormonal health, particularly during postpartum periods.
Link: https://www.healthline.com/health/what-does-ashwagandha-do-for-women
3. Title: Chamomile: Safety and efficacy during lactation
This review discusses chamomile's safety for breastfeeding mothers, noting its traditional use as a galactogogue despite the lack of extensive clinical trials supporting this claim.
Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501808/
4. Title: Interactions of ashwagandha with medications
The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health outlines potential interactions between ashwagandha and various medications, emphasizing the need for caution when combining treatments.
Link: https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/ashwagandha
5. Title: Safety and efficacy of herbal alternatives for breastfeeding mothers
This study reviews the safety profiles of various herbal alternatives, including chamomile and holy basil, for breastfeeding mothers, indicating their potential benefits without significant risks.
Link: https://arjunanatural.com/ashwagandha-for-hormonal-balance/
