Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an herb with a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine, an ancient Indian system of healing. It is often referred to as Indian ginseng or winter cherry. Traditionally, it was used as a rejuvenating remedy to promote overall well-being. Today, this herb has gained global popularity as a dietary supplement, primarily recognized for its potential to support the body’s response to stress and contribute to general health.
Ashwagandha’s Adaptogenic Properties
Ashwagandha is classified as an “adaptogen,” a term for plant substances that help the body adapt to various forms of stress and restore balance. Its adaptogenic effect involves interaction with the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, the central system regulating the body’s stress response.
The HPA axis controls the release of stress hormones, including cortisol. Ashwagandha helps modulate the HPA axis, leading to a reduction in cortisol levels. This contributes to calmness and helps the body maintain physiological balance during stressful periods, supporting the body’s resilience to stress.
Ashwagandha and Menstrual Cycle Influence
Ashwagandha is not known to directly stop a menstrual period. Its influence on the menstrual cycle is indirect, stemming from its adaptogenic and stress-reducing properties. Chronic stress can disrupt the body’s hormonal systems, including the HPA axis. This disruption can affect the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, which regulates reproductive hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, FSH, and LH.
An overactive HPA axis due to stress can interfere with the HPG axis, potentially leading to menstrual irregularities. By reducing stress and balancing the HPA axis, ashwagandha might indirectly support the regulation of stress-induced irregular periods. This could include helping to bring on a period delayed by high stress levels. Ashwagandha is not a contraceptive and does not induce abortion. While some traditional beliefs suggest it might induce early menstruation, scientific evidence for this is not robust.
Important Considerations for Use
While generally considered safe for short-term use, ashwagandha can have potential side effects and contraindications. Some individuals may experience digestive upset, such as stomach upset, diarrhea, or vomiting, and drowsiness. It is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, as there is some evidence it might cause miscarriages or uterine contractions.
Ashwagandha should also be avoided by people with autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis, as it may stimulate the immune system. Those with thyroid conditions, particularly hyperthyroidism, should use caution or avoid it, as ashwagandha might increase thyroid hormone levels. It may also interact with certain medications, including:
- Diabetes medications
- High blood pressure medications
- Sedatives
- Immunosuppressants
- Anti-seizure medications
- Thyroid hormones
It is advisable to stop taking ashwagandha at least two weeks before any scheduled surgery due to its potential to slow down the central nervous system. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking other medications. Supplements are not regulated with the same strictness as pharmaceutical drugs, meaning their quality and purity can vary.