SupplementScience

Ashwagandha Side Effects & Safety

DJP
Reviewed by , MD, Board Certified Internal Medicine

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. Full disclaimer

Safety Profile

Overall safety rating: Safe with Caution

Potential Side Effects

  • Mild digestive upset (uncommon)
  • Drowsiness at higher doses
  • May aggravate autoimmune conditions (thyroid, lupus, RA)
  • Rare: liver injury reported in case studies (primarily at high doses)

Drug & Supplement Interactions

  • May enhance effects of thyroid medications (monitor TSH)
  • May increase effects of sedatives and anti-anxiety medications
  • May lower blood sugar — monitor if taking diabetes medications
  • Avoid during pregnancy

Maximum Dose

Do not exceed: 600mg standardized extract daily (higher doses not well-studied)

Full Ashwagandha Guide

References

  1. (). An Alternative Treatment for Anxiety: A Systematic Review of Human Trial Results Reported for the Ayurvedic Herb Ashwagandha. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. DOI
  2. (). An investigation into the stress-relieving and pharmacological actions of an ashwagandha extract. Medicine. DOI