Is ashwagandha root safe while breastfeeding?

Is Ashwagandha Root Safe While Breastfeeding?
Ashwagandha, a popular adaptogenic herb known for its potential health benefits, has garnered attention for its use in various wellness practices. However, when it comes to breastfeeding, the safety of ashwagandha remains a contentious topic among health professionals and researchers.
Lack of Research and Caution Advised
The primary concern regarding the use of ashwagandha while breastfeeding is the insufficient research available to definitively establish its safety for nursing mothers and their infants. Many health experts recommend exercising caution, suggesting that breastfeeding women should avoid ashwagandha due to the lack of published studies on its effects during lactation. The absence of concrete evidence means that potential risks cannot be ruled out, particularly for newborns and preterm infants, who may be more vulnerable to any substances transferred through breast milk.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
In addition to the uncertainty surrounding its safety, ashwagandha can cause side effects such as stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting, especially when taken in large doses. These adverse effects could complicate the breastfeeding experience, potentially affecting both the mother’s health and her ability to care for her child. Furthermore, there are concerns about the heavy metal content in some commercially available ashwagandha supplements, which could pose additional risks during breastfeeding.
Transfer to Breast Milk
Research indicates that ashwagandha can transfer into breast milk, which raises concerns about its impact on infants. Given that infants are still developing, exposure to any unverified substances could lead to unforeseen health issues. Therefore, many experts advocate for waiting until a mother has fully weaned her child before introducing ashwagandha into her regimen.
Nutritional Considerations
While ashwagandha contains beneficial nutrients, such as iron, which is vital for breastfeeding mothers, the potential risks may outweigh these benefits. Mothers are encouraged to focus on a well-balanced diet that provides essential nutrients without the uncertainties associated with herbal supplements.
Consultation with Healthcare Professionals
Ultimately, the consensus among health professionals is clear: consultation with a healthcare provider is crucial before taking any new supplements, including ashwagandha, during breastfeeding. Each mother’s situation is unique, and a healthcare provider can offer personalized advice based on individual health needs and circumstances.
In conclusion, while ashwagandha is celebrated for its various health benefits, its use during breastfeeding is fraught with uncertainty and potential risks. Until more research is conducted, it is advisable for nursing mothers to err on the side of caution and prioritize their health and that of their infants.

Is ashwagandha safe with milk?

You can mix one teaspoon of ashwagandha powder in a glass of milk and add some honey to it. You can also add cardamom to improve taste, boost metabolism and promote better digestion. This list covered some of the well-known benefits of adding Ashwagandha to your diet and to your daily cosmetics.

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.

Are there any herbs to avoid while breastfeeding?

But some herbs may affect how much milk your body makes. For instance, eating a lot of parsley could curb lactation. And too much sage and peppermint may cut your milk supply. For some nursing moms, even peppermint-flavored toothpaste and candies are a problem.

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 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.

Can breastfeeding mothers take ashwagandha?

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.

Does ashwagandha make more fertile?

It’s suggested to improve sperm quality and support female reproductive health by promoting hormonal balance and possibly improving ovarian function. Scientific Evidence: Clinical studies have shown that Ashwagandha could improve sperm quality by enhancing sperm count and motility.

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.

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 happens when you take ashwagandha daily?

Ashwagandha may have a calming effect on anxiety symptoms. In a 2019 study , researchers found that taking a daily dose of 240 milligrams (mg) of ashwagandha significantly reduced people’s stress levels when compared with a placebo.