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Ashwagandha, Stress, and Anxiety
What are the Potential Side Effects?
Clinical guidelines consider ashwaganda to be safe at a dose of 300 to 600 mg/day. However, potential interactions with certain medications need to be further studied. This supplement should be used with caution in people with autoimmune diseases or thyroid disorders, as it may stimulate the immune system or alter thyroid hormone levels. It is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional before starting a new dietary supplement, especially for those taking other medications or with a pre-existing medical condition.
Conclusion
Scientific evidence supports ashwagandha as a promising natural treatment for stress and anxiety management. However, longer-term studies are needed to further confirm its effectiveness and safety. As with any dietary supplement, it is essential to use ashwagandha under medical supervision, especially if you have other health conditions or are taking medications.
Sources:
Speers et al (2021) Effects of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) on Stress and the Stress- Related Neuropsychiatric Disorders Anxiety, Depression, and Insomnia. Curr Neuropharmacol;19(9):1468-1495.
Akhgarjand et al. (2022) Does Ashwagandha supplementation have a beneficial effect on the management of anxiety and stress? A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Phytotherapy Research;36:4115–4124.
Sarris et al (2022) Clinician guidelines for the treatment of psychiatric disorders with nutraceuticals and phytoceuticals: The World Federation of Societies of Biological Psychiatry (WFSBP) and Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments (CANMAT) Taskforce. The world journal of biological psychiatry; 23(6): 424–455.
Mandlik et Namdeo (2020) Pharmacological evaluation of Ashwagandha highlighting its healthcare claims, safety, and toxicity aspects. Journal of Dietary Supplements;18(2), 183-226.
Author
Kathryn holds a Bachelor Degree in Nutrition as well as a Bachelor and a Master Degree in Kinesiology, all from Laval University. She is a Registered Dietitian and active member of the Ordre professionnel des Diététistes Nutritionnistes du Québec (ODNQ) and of the American Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. She holds the Monash University's certification for the FODMAP diet and IBS, and has considerable clinical experience in that area. She is also an accomplished athlete, having ran track and cross-country at a national level. Kathryn specializes in sports nutrition, weight loss, diabetes, as well as heart and gastrointestinal health.
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