Is ashwagandha safe to use while breastfeeding?

Understanding Ashwagandha and Breastfeeding Safety
Ashwagandha, a popular adaptogenic herb known for its stress-relieving properties, has garnered attention among new mothers seeking relief from postpartum stress and fatigue. However, the question of its safety during breastfeeding remains a topic of debate among health professionals and researchers.
Current Perspectives on Safety
While ashwagandha is generally considered safe for most adults when taken in recommended doses, its use during breastfeeding is approached with caution. Experts advise that breastfeeding mothers should consult healthcare professionals before introducing any new supplements, including ashwagandha, into their regimen. This is particularly important because the effects of many herbs on breast milk and infants are not well-studied.
Some sources suggest that ashwagandha may not be advisable for breastfeeding women. For instance, it has been noted that pregnant and breastfeeding women are often advised to avoid ashwagandha due to potential side effects, which can include gastrointestinal issues like stomach upset, diarrhea, or vomiting, especially when consumed in large amounts.
Lack of Comprehensive Research
The research surrounding ashwagandha’s safety during breastfeeding is limited. While some anecdotal evidence and small studies suggest that it may not pose significant risks, the lack of comprehensive clinical trials means that definitive conclusions cannot be drawn. The herb’s phytochemicals, which can exert psychoactive effects, may also pass into breast milk, raising concerns about their impact on infants.
Recommendations for Breastfeeding Mothers
Given the uncertainties, healthcare professionals typically recommend a cautious approach. If a breastfeeding mother is considering ashwagandha for its potential benefits, such as improved energy levels or mood stabilization, it is crucial to discuss this with a healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on the mother’s health history and the specific needs of her breastfeeding journey.
In summary, while ashwagandha may offer benefits for stress relief, its safety during breastfeeding is not fully established. Consulting with a healthcare professional is essential to ensure both the mother’s and the infant’s health are prioritized.

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 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.

Can a breastfeeding mother 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 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.

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 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 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.

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.

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.