Why cant you take ashwagandha while pregnant?

The Risks of Taking Ashwagandha During Pregnancy
Ashwagandha, a popular herb in Ayurvedic medicine, is often praised for its ability to reduce stress and improve overall vitality. However, when it comes to pregnancy, the consensus among health professionals is clear: it is best avoided. This caution stems from several potential risks associated with its use during this critical period.
Potential for Miscarriage and Complications
One of the primary concerns regarding ashwagandha during pregnancy is its potential to induce miscarriage. While some traditional practices in India suggest that pregnant women may take ashwagandha to enhance vitality and support fetal development, modern medical advice strongly cautions against this. The herb has been classified as “unsafe” by the FDA, primarily due to evidence suggesting that it may lead to complications, including miscarriages, particularly at high doses.
Impact on Hormonal Balance
Pregnancy naturally alters hormone levels in a woman’s body, including an increase in cortisol, which is essential for fetal growth and development. Ashwagandha is known to influence cortisol levels, and while it may help manage stress, this modulation could pose risks to the developing fetus. The delicate balance of hormones during pregnancy is crucial, and any external influence could lead to unforeseen complications.
Lack of Comprehensive Research
Another significant factor contributing to the caution surrounding ashwagandha is the lack of extensive research on its effects during pregnancy. While the herb may be safe for the general population, the physiological changes that occur during pregnancy can alter how substances are metabolized and their effects on the body. Medical professionals often advise pregnant women to be wary of supplements due to this uncertainty, emphasizing the need for more research to establish safety guidelines.
Consultation with Healthcare Providers
Given these risks, it is essential for pregnant women to consult with healthcare providers before considering ashwagandha or any herbal supplements. Individual circumstances can vary widely, and a healthcare professional can provide personalized advice based on a woman’s health history and pregnancy status.
In summary, while ashwagandha may offer benefits for stress relief and vitality, its potential risks during pregnancy, including the possibility of miscarriage and hormonal disruption, make it a herb best avoided unless under strict medical supervision.

Why did Denmark ban ashwagandha?

Recently Denmark banned ashwagandha because of its potential negative impacts on hormones and its ability to induce abortion.

What can I take for anxiety while pregnant?

In general, these antidepressants are options during pregnancy: Certain selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). SSRIs usually are an option during pregnancy. These include citalopram (Celexa), sertraline (Zoloft), escitalopram (Lexapro) and fluoxetine (Prozac).

Does ashwagandha affect getting pregnant?

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.

What can I take for stress while pregnant?

SSRIs usually are an option during pregnancy. These include citalopram (Celexa), sertraline (Zoloft), escitalopram (Lexapro) and fluoxetine (Prozac). Risks include high blood pressure for the pregnant person and premature birth. These risks are small.

Why can’t you take ashwagandha while breastfeeding?

As there is a lack of data on the safety of ashwagandha for pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers and children, these population groups in particular are advised against using such preparations.

Does ashwagandha cause uterine contractions?

You are pregnant: “Ashwagandha is generally regarded as unsafe in pregnancy because it has abortifacient effects,” meaning it can induce abortions, Jefferson says. “The compounds in it can cause miscarriage, premature birth, or even uterine contractions.”

What herbs should I avoid when pregnant?

Herbs to Avoid During Pregnancy

Scientific Name	Common Name(s)	Form of Use
Peumus boldus	Boldo	Tea
Piper methysticum	Kava kava	Liquid extracts, capsules
Rhamnus purshiana	Espino cerval, Buckthorn	Tea, capsules
Rheum spp	Ruibarbo, Rhubarb	Tea, capsules

What happens if you take ashwagandha while pregnant?

There is also evidence suggesting that ashwagandha can increase testosterone levels, and it may not be safe for men with hormone-sensitive prostate cancer. Ashwagandha is not advised for pregnant women due to the potential risk of spontaneous abortion.

Can ashwagandha cause serotonin syndrome?

Both Ashwagandha and Zoloft can increase serotonin levels in the brain. Concurrent use may theoretically increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a rare but potentially life-threatening condition characterized by symptoms such as agitation, confusion, rapid heart rate, and high blood pressure.

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.