What the NIH says about the evidence
- NCCIH says research shows some ashwagandha preparations may be effective for insomnia and stress. The evidence on anxiety is unclear.
- There is not enough evidence to know whether it helps with thinking, diabetes, menopause or athletic performance.
- Many of the studies were small and used different preparations.
Safety
- It may be safe for short-term use, up to three months. Its long-term safety is not known.
- It can cause drowsiness, stomach upset, diarrhea and vomiting. Rare cases of liver injury have been linked to it.
- Avoid it during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is not recommended before surgery, or for people with autoimmune or thyroid disorders, or with hormone-sensitive prostate cancer.
- It may interact with medicines for diabetes, high blood pressure, seizures and thyroid, and with sedatives and medicines that suppress the immune system.
Please note: this page is general information, not medical advice. Ask your doctor what is right for you, especially if you have a health condition or take medicine.
