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Is ashwagandha good for breast health?

Exploring Ashwagandha and Its Impact on Breast Health
Ashwagandha, a prominent herb in Ayurvedic medicine, has garnered attention for its potential health benefits, particularly in the realm of stress reduction and overall wellness. However, its implications for breast health, especially concerning breast cancer, are of particular interest to researchers and health enthusiasts alike.
Ashwagandha as a Chemotherapeutic Agent
Recent studies have begun to explore the role of ashwagandha in breast cancer treatment. A review highlighted its potential as a chemotherapeutic agent, suggesting that it may exert protective effects against various types of breast cancer through specific molecular mechanisms. This positions ashwagandha not just as a supplement for general health but as a possible ally in the fight against breast cancer.
Benefits Beyond Cancer
Beyond its potential in cancer treatment, ashwagandha is noted for its anti-inflammatory properties, which may alleviate symptoms such as breast tenderness and fluid retention. This can be particularly beneficial for women experiencing discomfort related to hormonal fluctuations or other conditions. Additionally, the herb is recognized for its ability to enhance mood and reduce stress, which can indirectly support breast health by promoting overall well-being.
Cautions for Use
Despite its benefits, caution is advised for specific populations. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are generally recommended to avoid ashwagandha due to potential risks, including the possibility of miscarriage. The lack of comprehensive safety studies in these groups underscores the need for careful consideration before incorporating ashwagandha into their health regimens.
Conclusion
In summary, ashwagandha presents promising benefits for breast health, particularly in the context of cancer treatment and symptom relief. However, its use should be approached with caution, especially for pregnant or breastfeeding women. As research continues to evolve, the full spectrum of ashwagandha’s effects on breast health will become clearer, potentially offering new avenues for treatment and wellness.

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.

How do you flush excess estrogen?

Tips for reducing estrogen levels

  1. Follow a fiber-rich diet. Studies have shown high fiber diets promote healthy estrogen levels.
  2. Limit certain animal products.
  3. Follow a Mediterranean-style diet.
  4. Lose excess body fat.
  5. Limit refined carbs and processed foods.
  6. Exercise.
  7. Limit alcohol intake.

Does ashwagandha change your appearance?

A study on the efficacy of ashwagandha lotion in healthy photoaged people revealed the plant can significantly reduce the appearance of aging signs caused by UV radiation, including fine lines and wrinkles. As a potent antioxidant, ashwagandha repairs cellular damage caused by free radicals.

Is ashwagandha good for the vag?

Vaginal lubrication
Taking ashwagandha was linked to significant improvements in lubrication and experiences of orgasm and sexual arousal. Researchers also reported an increase in the frequency of successful sexual encounters. In the study, participants took 300 mg of ashwagandha root extract twice daily.

Does ashwagandha increase estrogen levels?

In one study, women with perimenopausal symptoms who took daily doses of ashwagandha significantly increased their circulating oestrogen after 8 weeks. The same study found that ashwagandha lowered levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), the hormone that triggers the production of oestrogen in your ovaries.

Does ashwagandha change your body?

Ashwagandha contains chemicals that might help calm the brain, reduce swelling, lower blood pressure, and alter the immune system. Since ashwagandha is traditionally used as an adaptogen, it is used for many conditions related to stress. Adaptogens are believed to help the body resist physical and mental stress.

What happens when a woman takes ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha has aphrodisiac qualities that may enhance libido and overall sexual wellness. This effect may be partially due to its potential to uplift mood and reduce stress. A 2023 review in healthy women found that consuming ashwagandha root extract positively impacts sexual function.

What is the bad side of ashwagandha?

Side effects of ashwagandha may include diarrhea, headache, sedation, or nausea. Liver problems may occur. Ashwagandha may increase testosterone levels. Ashwagandha should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

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.

What organ does ashwagandha affect?

al. described the effects of ashwagandha on liver function in five patients. All of them developed jaundice, had elevated liver enzymes, and were diagnosed with drug-induced liver damage, which regressed after eight months [30]. In 2021, Weber et al.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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