For many new mothers, breastfeeding offers both rewarding and challenging experiences.
As part of the normal process of caring for a newborn, new mothers must find strategies to reduce stress while preserving their energy and enhancing their health.
Ashwagandha is often regarded by herbalists as an adaptogenic herb.
The issue is whether using ashwagandha during nursing has any safety issues.
Since they need to be aware of the benefits and possible risks of taking ashwagandha while nursing, many nursing moms ask this question.
The following discussion looks at the hazards associated with ashwagandha and the safer lactation support choices that make it inappropriate for nursing moms.
Understanding Ashwagandha and Its Effects
Ashwagandha, or Withania somnifera, is a common traditional herbal therapy in Ayurvedic medicine.
It helps the body combat stress by stabilizing cortisol levels thanks to its adaptogenic qualities.
In addition to increasing vigor, lowering anxiety, and enhancing mental function, the herb offers benefits for maintaining overall health.
The primary benefit of ashwagandha is that it regulates the body's response to stress.
Ashwagandha has been shown in studies to have anti-inflammatory qualities, improve athletic performance, and encourage sound sleep.
People who wish to manage stress while increasing their energy and improving their wellness continue to choose ashwagandha as their go-to natural remedy.
Before taking ashwagandha supplements, nursing moms should use caution.
Since there is little data to support Ashwagandha's safety for nursing moms, doctors advise new mothers to use heqrbal supplements with caution when nursing.
Why No Ashwagandha While Breastfeeding? Potential Risks Explained
Despite its many health benefits, ashwagandha may not be suitable for breastfeeding mothers.
One of the main reasons for breastfeeding concerns is the lack of research on ashwagandha's effects on lactation.
Scientists have not sufficiently investigated the effects of ashwagandha in breast milk on newborns, thus the research on this topic is still lacking (1).
The hormonal influence of Ashwagandha represents a possible safety issue during use.
Studies show that this adaptogenic plant affects both cortisol and thyroid hormone concentrations in the body (2).
Several hormonal changes linked with this supplement can cause problems with milk production, which may disrupt breastfeeding for mothers.
Thyroid-related concerns about Ashwagandha pose risks to developing infants because the herb seems to impact this vital gland.
One of the main reasons to avoid ashwagandha when nursing is that it can have negative side effects when used as a herbal supplement.
Ashwagandha users may have uncommon side effects, such as headaches, nausea, and stomach issues, but these are uncommon.
While these side effects remain at healthy levels, breastfeeding moms who adapt to the physical and emotional changes of breastfeeding should be aware that their worries do not go away.
Herbal supplement strength varies widely from product to product.
Because many ashwagandha supplements are not properly regulated, they may include unidentified pollutants that could pose a risk to the mother and her unborn child.
Hormonal Effects of Ashwagandha on Breastfeeding Moms
An additional important consideration when assessing ashwagandha's safety during breastfeeding is its effect on hormones.
The herb is known to influence cortisol levels, which are associated with the stress response in the body.
This may change the hormonal balance required for a successful lactation, even though it can help lower stress and foster calm.
Thyroid hormones may be impacted by ashwagandha as well.
According to research, ashwagandha may either improve or worsen thyroid function, depending on the individual (3).
This may result in variations in milk production or other problems that could impair the mother's capacity to breastfeed.
Leading health organizations such as the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) and WebMD recommend caution when it comes to using herbs while breastfeeding (4).
These sites note that many herbal supplements are generally safe, but they also point out that not all herbs are appropriate for usage during nursing.
Because there is insufficient proof to support its safety for nursing moms, ashwagandha in particular is marked as problematic.
Before using any herbal supplements, these organizations advise moms to speak with their healthcare physician, particularly if they are breastfeeding.
Personalized counsel can be given by medical specialists according to each patient's unique needs and health problems.
What Herbs Should Be Avoided While Breastfeeding?
Breastfeeding mothers must show caution when using various herbs apart from Ashwagandha.
The medicinal herbs either diminish the production of milk or produce adverse health consequences that affect both breastfeeding mothers and their newborns.
The following herbs represent substances that breastfeeding mothers should avoid:
- Sage: Known to reduce milk supply in some women.
- Peppermint: Can also decrease milk production when used in large amounts.
- Parsley: Another herb that may reduce milk supply.
- St. John’s Wort: Can interfere with the body’s ability to produce milk and may interact with other medications.
Healthcare providers should be consulted before breastfeeding mothers use herbs.
Some natural herbs have side effects that affect nursing mothers and their infants without warning.
What to Do if You’ve Already Taken Ashwagandha While Breastfeeding
Don't freak out if you've already taken ashwagandha while nursing.
Speaking with your healthcare practitioner is the first step.
They can offer detailed guidance on whether you should keep nursing and whether you need to take any urgent action.
Even if there isn't much information on the risks of using ashwagandha while nursing, it's still vital to keep an eye out for any possible negative effects.
Talk to your pediatrician about any worries you have after noticing any indications of gastrointestinal distress, changes in feeding habits, or irritability.
Your doctor might also recommend safer herbal remedies, dietary modifications, or other techniques to reduce stress and boost energy levels while nursing.
Safe Natural Alternatives to Ashwagandha During Breastfeeding
Expecting mothers who want to use natural substitutes for Ashwagandha can explore multiple plant-based options considered safe throughout breastfeeding (5).
- Chamomile: Known for its calming effects, chamomile is safe for breastfeeding mothers and can help with relaxation and mild anxiety.
- Fenugreek: Commonly used to increase milk supply, fenugreek can also help manage stress and provide an energy boost.
- Lavender: A soothing herb that can promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
- Lemon Balm: Another calming herb that is safe for breastfeeding moms and can help alleviate stress.
A breastfeeding mother must select herbal supplements from tested, well-established, high-quality brands.
Products that share detailed sourcing information and formulation methods should always be your selection.
Final Thoughts
Although ashwagandha may help with stress and general health, there are hazards associated with using it while nursing.
Caution is required because there is little data on its safety for both mother and child.
It is important for nursing moms to put safety first and speak with their doctors before starting any new supplement.
There are safer herbs that can boost your health at this crucial period if you're searching for natural options.
Keep in mind that it's always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your health and the wellbeing of your unborn child.
💡 Curious about ashwagandha and breastfeeding? Get the facts you need to keep both you and baby safe! 🤱
FAQs on Why Ashwagandha is a No During Breastfeeding
Why is ashwagandha bad while breastfeeding?
Ashwagandha may cause hormonal changes that could impact milk production and affect the thyroid. The lack of sufficient research on its safety during breastfeeding is also a concern.
Is ashwagandha safe for babies?
There is limited research on the effects of ashwagandha on babies through breast milk, which makes it difficult to confirm its safety. Therefore, it’s generally recommended to avoid it while breastfeeding.
What herbs should I avoid when breastfeeding?
Herbs such as sage, peppermint, parsley, and St. John’s Wort should be avoided as they can interfere with milk production and may have other negative effects.
What should I do if I’ve taken ashwagandha while breastfeeding?
If you’ve taken ashwagandha while breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider immediately for guidance and monitor your baby for any signs of distress.
Related Studies
1. Title: Withania - Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®)
This entry from the National Library of Medicine notes that while ashwagandha is used in Ayurvedic medicine, there are no scientifically valid clinical trials supporting its use during breastfeeding.
Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501905/
2. Title: Ashwagandha: Is it helpful for stress, anxiety, or sleep?
According to the National Institutes of Health, ashwagandha has been shown to lower cortisol levels, which may indirectly affect thyroid function by reducing stress-induced suppression of thyroid hormones.
Link: https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Ashwagandha-HealthProfessional/
3. Title: Ashwagandha and Thyroid Health: Integrative Endocrinology's Natural Approach
This article discusses how ashwagandha's adaptogenic and anti-inflammatory properties are being explored for their potential to support thyroid function, which may have implications for breastfeeding mothers.
Rupa Health
Link: https://www.rupahealth.com/post/ashwagandha-and-thyroid-health-integrative-endocrinologys-natural-approach
4. Title: Herbal medicines & breastfeeding | The Royal Women's Hospital
This resource emphasizes that many herbal and traditional medicines can transfer into breast milk and may affect the baby or milk production, underscoring the need for caution and consultation with healthcare providers.
The Royal Women's Hospital
Link: https://www.thewomens.org.au/health-information/breastfeeding/medicines-drugs-and-breastfeeding/complementary-medicines-and-breastfeeding
5. Title: 10 Best Herbs for Breastfeeding Mothers
Gaia Herbs provides a list of herbs considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, such as chamomile, fenugreek, and lemon balm, which can be used as alternatives to ashwagandha for stress relief and lactation support.
Link: https://www.gaiaherbs.com/blogs/seeds-of-knowledge/5-herbs-for-breastfeeding-moms?srsltid=AfmBOorb8fqPVd6wn0YhbA4CExCxC31edY5fIv98TC8DBkWf3A6atTKI&utm_
