Can I take ashwagandha while breastfeeding?

Understanding Ashwagandha and Breastfeeding
Ashwagandha, a popular adaptogenic herb known for its potential benefits in reducing stress and anxiety, has garnered attention among new mothers seeking natural remedies to enhance their well-being. However, the question of whether it is safe to take ashwagandha while breastfeeding remains a topic of concern and debate.
Limited Research and Safety Concerns
The primary issue surrounding the use of ashwagandha during breastfeeding is the lack of comprehensive research. Current studies do not provide sufficient evidence to confirm its safety for nursing mothers and their infants. Experts caution against its use due to this uncertainty. As one source notes, “there isn’t enough research showing that ashwagandha while breastfeeding is absolutely safe for both mother and baby”.
While some anecdotal reports suggest that no harmful effects have been widely documented, the absence of scientific backing means that many healthcare professionals recommend erring on the side of caution. As stated in another source, “Because there hasn’t been any research on taking Ashwagandha while breastfeeding, you should avoid it”.
Nutritional Considerations
Interestingly, ashwagandha contains iron, a vital nutrient for breastfeeding mothers. This raises a nuanced point: while the herb may offer some nutritional benefits, the potential risks associated with its use during lactation cannot be overlooked. The concern is that any psychoactive compounds in ashwagandha could potentially pass into breast milk, affecting the infant.
Recommendations from Experts
Given the current landscape of knowledge, healthcare providers generally advise nursing mothers to consult with their doctors before introducing any new supplements, including ashwagandha, into their regimen. This is particularly important for those experiencing anxiety or stress, as there are alternative methods and treatments that may be safer and more effective during breastfeeding.
Conclusion
In summary, while ashwagandha is celebrated for its health benefits, its safety during breastfeeding remains uncertain due to limited research. The prevailing advice is to prioritize caution and seek professional guidance before making any decisions regarding its use. As always, the health and safety of both mother and child should be the foremost consideration.

Is ashwagandha safe for breastfeeding mothers?

Based on the available evidence, the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) recommends that especially children, pregnant and breastfeeding women and people with acute or pre-existing liver disease should not take supplements containing ashwagandha.

How much ashwagandha for postpartum?

These herbs also work to reduce inflammation and increase your tolerance for stress. Adaptogenic herbs are considered safe while breastfeeding, but you should consult your doctor if you have a health condition or are taking any medications. Ashwagandha: 1-4 grams per day or 60 drops of tincture twice daily.

What does ashwagandha do to breasts?

WS exerts its effect on breast cancer cells by inducing programmed cell death, especially apoptosis, at the molecular level. Ashwagandha has been found to possess a potential for treating breast cancer, especially estrogen receptor/progesterone receptor (ER/PR)-positive and triple-negative breast cancer.

What supplements should I avoid while breastfeeding?

Dietary Supplements and Herbs to Avoid When Breastfeeding

• Answer: Certain herbals, high dose vitamins, and other dietary supplements can be dangerous to breastfed babies through breast milk.
• Aloe latex.
• Ashwagandha.
• Berberine/goldenseal.
• Bilberry.
• Black cohosh.
• Butterbur.
• Dong quai.

Does ashwagandha help with having a baby?

With all these benefits, It is not a surprise that studies have found Ashwagandha to improve female fertility. Ashwagandha’s fertility-boosting powers are not limited to women, thankfully. Based on research, ashwagandha may increase testosterone levels and boost sex drive in men.

Does ashwagandha increase chances of pregnancy?

Encouraging conception
There are several ways in which ashwagandha may improve female fertility. This could be accomplished through controlling hormone levels, improving ovarian function, reducing inflammation, and creating a favorable environment for reproduction.

What can I take for anxiety while breastfeeding?

Safe medication in breastfeeding
They include, in no particular order: SSRI antidepressants e.g. sertraline, citalopram, fluoxetine, paroxetine all have anti- anxiety activity. They take 4 to 6 weeks to exert full benefit. Tri-cyclic antidepressants e.g. amitriptyline, imipramine.

Does ashwagandha increase weight in females?

Ashwagandha is unlikely to make you gain weight. There’s some chance it could help you lose weight, but weight loss is a complicated formula. It’s not clear if or how ashwagandha might play a role, but if it does, it likely has something to do with your metabolism.

Does ashwagandha block birth control?

While there’s not much research about ashwagandha and birth control specifically, a 2015 study found that ashwagandha doesn’t seem to affect the enzymes that break down hormonal birth control [11], meaning that they can probably be used together.

Who should avoid ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha should be avoided during pregnancy and should not be used while breastfeeding. Ashwagandha is not recommended for people who are about to have surgery, or for those who have autoimmune or thyroid disorders.