Natural doesn’t always mean harmless.
Ashwagandha is famous for its adaptogenic properties — stress reduction, hormonal balancing, and sleep enhancement (1).
But it’s also a bioactive substance that interacts with your body in complicated ways.
But occasionally, it can have strange and uncomfortable( if not downright dangerous) side effects.
Here’s what to know before introducing it to your routine.
Common Side Effects
Ashwagandha is well-tolerated by most. But they are real for others.
Digestive disturbance is the most frequent, which can include nausea, loose stools, or stomach cramps — particularly when using high doses (2).
Drowsiness or sedation is another.
Because it’s a nervous system relaxant, some people feel too tired during the day — especially when combined with other calming supplements or medications.
Some people may be allergic, especially if sensitive to nightshades. This can cause rashes, itching, and occasionally problems breathing.
It may also decrease blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
While beneficial for some, these effects could pose a threat to individuals who are medicated for diabetes or high blood pressure.
Less Frequent but Serious Risks
There are reports of oashwagandha-associated liver toxicity.
While rare, a few people with prior liver disease or who were taking numerous supplements developed liver inflammation.
It is also able to modify thyroid activity, namely, T3 and T4 synthesis (3).
This could be harmful for those with hyperthyroidism or taking thyroid medications.
Ashwagandha can interact with a wide range of medications, including sedatives, immunosuppressants, thyroid and diabetes treatments, and blood pressure medications.
It is best to avoid taking ashwagandha during pregnancy or breastfeeding, because there aren’t enough safety data for use during this time, and this herb may cause uterine contractions or hormone-related changes.
Why These Side Effects Occur
The benefits of ashwagandha may actually depend on body chemistry and health context.
Since it modulates hormones and neurotransmitters, it might be pushing your body too hard in the wrong direction if you are already low.
The type and potency of active ingredients differ among supplements. And more exposure can mean bigger risk.
Some people have a genetic susceptibility to reacting to herbal alkaloids or the nightshade family of plants.
Combining ashwagandha with other supplements or drugs may allow you to exceed the detoxification pathways in your liver.
How to Use It Safely
To keep your risk low, you should follow a few essential rules.
Talk to your doctor before using, especially if you’re taking medication or have a health condition.
Begin with a small dose and take more only if necessary.
Do not use in conjunction with other herbs or medications that act on the nervous, liver, thyroid, or immune systems.
And if you do experience any symptoms similar to yellow skin, dark urine, dizziness, racing heart rate, or anything new and unexplained — stop immediately and see a doctor about it.
Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should not use it unless more safety information is available.
Use a quality supplement that has been standardized and tested by third-party labs, so there is no guesswork for safety or potency.
Final Thoughts
Ashwagandha is potent — and with power comes potential side effects. Most people enjoy only beneficial effects, while the rest suffer side effects that can be mild or even serious.
The thing is to use it with knowledge and medical guidance, and pay attention to how your body reacts. It can be an ally — but only to a point.
✅Curious but cautious? Be safe and happy in your wellness journey —start slow, be smart, and always listen to your body. 🌱
FAQs on Good Herbs Go Wrong: Side Effects of Ashwagandha Exposed
Is ashwagandha safe for everyone?
No. Caution is warranted for individuals with thyroid disease, liver problems, autoimmune diseases, or those taking particular medications.
Can it make me sleepy?
Yes, especially at higher doses. It lulls, so some people feel sleepy after using it.
Does it cause liver damage?
(Not common, but it happens: liver damage is documented, especially with low-quality supplements.)
What if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Avoid use of ashwagandha for unknown risks and hormonal activity.
Can I take it with medicines?
Well, not without the okay from your doctor. It has a number of common interactions with other medications.
Related Studies
1. Title: Effects of Withania somnifera on Cortisol Levels in Stressed Human Volunteers
A randomized human trial found that ashwagandha extract significantly reduced serum cortisol levels in stressed adults compared with placebo.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-020-2649-2
2. Title: Ashwagandha: Usefulness and Safety – National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health Fact Sheet
A comprehensive safety overview that mentions gastrointestinal upset and drowsiness as reported side effects of ashwagandha in supplement use.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1126/science.aba2422
3. Title: Liver Dangers of Herbal Products: A Case Report of Ashwagandha‑Induced Liver Injury
Case report detailing acute liver injury in an otherwise healthy individual after using ashwagandha, with elevated liver enzymes and jaundice.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cell.2021.01.020
