Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha explained
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an adaptogenic herb used to help the body manage stress and support sleep, mood, and resilience.
Not FDA ApprovedAshwagandha helps treat
• Stress and anxious feelings (may support)
• Sleep quality and insomnia support
• Cortisol regulation (subject to evidence variability)
• Cognitive performance under stress
• Male fertility parameters (emerging evidence)
additional medications
• Rhodiola (stimulating adaptogen)
• L‑theanine or magnesium
• CBT‑I / stress‑management therapies
medication risks
• Possible thyroid stimulation; caution with thyroid disease
• Potential liver injury (rare)
• May interact with sedatives/thyroid or immunomodulating meds
side effects
• Drowsiness
• GI upset
• Headache
FAQs
Q: Is ashwagandha FDA‑approved?A: No—supplements aren’t FDA‑approved to treat disease.
Q: How long to work?
A: Often 2–8 weeks in studies for stress/sleep outcomes.
Q: Who should avoid it?
A: Pregnancy, certain thyroid disorders, and autoimmune conditions—ask your clinician.
Q: Any liver concerns?
A: Rare liver injury has been reported; stop if you develop jaundice or severe fatigue.
Q: Standardized extracts?
A: Many products standardize withanolides; choose third‑party tested brands.
