Why no ashwagandha while breastfeeding?

The Safety of Ashwagandha While Breastfeeding
Ashwagandha, a revered herb in Ayurvedic medicine, is often sought after for its potential benefits in reducing stress and enhancing overall well-being. However, when it comes to breastfeeding, the question of its safety becomes paramount for nursing mothers.
Limited Research and Expert Opinions
The consensus among health experts is that while ashwagandha is generally considered safe, the scientific research specifically addressing its effects during breastfeeding is limited. Many health professionals caution against its use due to the lack of comprehensive studies that evaluate its impact on both mothers and infants during this critical period. Although no significant harmful effects have been widely reported, the absence of robust clinical trials leaves a gap in understanding the herb’s safety profile for breastfeeding mothers.
Potential Benefits vs. Risks
Some proponents of ashwagandha argue that it can be beneficial for postpartum mothers, potentially aiding in stress relief and even boosting milk supply. However, these claims are often anecdotal and not substantiated by rigorous scientific evidence. The herb is known for its adaptogenic properties, which may help the body manage stress, but the implications of these effects on a breastfeeding infant remain unclear.
Caution is Key
Given the critical nature of breastfeeding for both mother and child, many healthcare providers recommend exercising caution. The primary concern is that while ashwagandha may not pose immediate risks, its long-term effects on a nursing infant are not well understood. This uncertainty leads many experts to advise against its use unless under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Conclusion
In summary, while ashwagandha is celebrated for its potential health benefits, its use during breastfeeding is fraught with uncertainty. The lack of definitive research and the potential for unknown effects on infants suggest that nursing mothers should approach this herb with caution. Consulting with a healthcare provider is essential for any mother considering ashwagandha as part of her postpartum wellness regimen.

What is not recommended for breastfeeding?

Medical Contraindications for Breastfeeding
There are a few medical contraindications to breastfeeding, and these include: An infant who has the metabolic disorder of classic galactosemia (galactose 1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency). A mother living with human T-cell lymphotrophic virus type I or type II.

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.

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.

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].

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.

Are adaptogens safe while breastfeeding?

Adaptogens typically state on the packaging that they are not for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding as they haven’t been sufficiently tested.

Has anyone taken ashwagandha while breastfeeding?

Although it is rare, there have been a number of cases that link liver injury to ashwagandha supplements. Ashwagandha should be avoided during pregnancy and should not be used while breastfeeding.

Who should avoid ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha should be used cautiously or avoided if you have a thyroid condition or take thyroid hormone medications.

Is ashwagandha safe for breastfeeding?

In some individuals, ashwagandha preparations may cause drowsiness, stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting. Although it is rare, there have been a number of cases that link liver injury to ashwagandha supplements. Ashwagandha should be avoided during pregnancy and should not be used while breastfeeding.

Are there any herbs you shouldn’t take while breastfeeding?

Teas containing any of the herbs mentioned above may not be safe for breastfeeding. That includes chamomile, echinacea, and ginger teas; yerba mate; and teas with valerian, sage, kava kava, anise, ginseng, comfrey, lavender, licorice root, passionflower, red clover, senna, or St.