Is ashwagandha ok while breastfeeding?

Understanding Ashwagandha and Breastfeeding
Ashwagandha, a popular adaptogenic herb known for its stress-relieving properties, has garnered attention for its potential benefits for new mothers. However, the question of its safety during breastfeeding remains a topic of debate among health professionals and researchers.
Limited Research and Caution
The primary concern regarding ashwagandha while breastfeeding is the lack of comprehensive research. While some studies suggest that ashwagandha may offer various health benefits, there is insufficient evidence to definitively state that it is safe for nursing mothers and their infants. Experts caution that the herb’s effects on breast milk and, consequently, on a breastfeeding baby are not well understood.
Potential Benefits and Nutritional Value
Despite the uncertainties, some sources indicate that ashwagandha could be beneficial for breastfeeding mothers. It is rich in iron, a vital nutrient that can support the health of nursing mothers. Additionally, many women report that ashwagandha helps alleviate stress and anxiety, which can be particularly beneficial during the postpartum period. However, it is crucial for mothers to ensure they are sourcing the herb from reputable suppliers and using it appropriately.
Recommendations from Health Professionals
Health professionals generally recommend consulting with a healthcare provider before introducing any new supplements, including ashwagandha, into a breastfeeding regimen. This is especially important for mothers with underlying health conditions or those nursing newborns or preterm infants, as the potential risks may outweigh the benefits.
Moreover, while no significant harmful effects have been widely reported, the absence of documented experiences with ashwagandha during breastfeeding means that caution is warranted.
Conclusion
In summary, while ashwagandha may offer some benefits to breastfeeding mothers, the lack of definitive research on its safety during this period necessitates a careful approach. Consulting with a healthcare professional is essential to ensure that any supplement taken is safe for both mother and child. As always, trusting one’s instincts and prioritizing the health and well-being of both mother and baby should guide any decisions regarding supplementation during breastfeeding.

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.

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.

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.

Why should you avoid ashwagandha while breastfeeding?

Ashwagandha is considered Lactation Category C. This means that Ashwagandha and breastfeeding are considered compatible. However, it’s important to talk to your doctor before taking any herbs or supplements or making dietary changes while breastfeeding.

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 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.

Why can’t you take ashwagandha while pregnant?

Some experts advise against the use of ashwagandha by people who are pregnant because some reports have suggested that it has the potential to cause spontaneous abortion [8,33-38].

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.

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.

Does ashwagandha affect birth control?

It’s likely safe to combine ashwagandha and birth control pills. Information is limited, but studies haven’t found ashwagandha to interfere with the metabolism of birth control pills. Short-term use of the supplement (up to 3 months) is likely safe for most people.