Ashwagandha, or Withania somnifera, is a small evergreen shrub used for thousands of years in the traditional Indian system of medicine known as Ayurveda. Heart palpitations are the sensation of an unusual or irregular heart rhythm, often described as a racing, fluttering, or pounding feeling in the chest. This article explores the current scientific understanding of the relationship between this herb and heart palpitations, focusing on how Ashwagandha might indirectly influence the heart through its effects on the body’s stress response.
Understanding the Causes of Heart Palpitations
Heart palpitations are common and often not indicative of a serious underlying heart condition. The sensation is frequently triggered by non-cardiac factors that increase the body’s overall state of arousal. These causes include psychological stress, anxiety, and panic attacks, which stimulate the release of adrenaline and noradrenaline.
External stimulants like excessive caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol consumption are also frequent triggers because they directly affect the nervous system. Hormonal shifts, such as those occurring during pregnancy, menstruation, or menopause, can also lead to temporary changes in heart rhythm awareness. Palpitations may also be a symptom of conditions like hyperthyroidism or anemia, highlighting the need to determine the root cause.
Ashwagandha’s Role in Stress Management
Ashwagandha helps the body maintain balance during periods of mental or physical pressure. Its benefits are linked to its ability to modulate the body’s central stress-response system. The herb contains active compounds called withanolides, which are thought to act on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis.
The HPA axis regulates the body’s reaction to stress by controlling the release of the hormone cortisol from the adrenal glands. Chronic stress can lead to sustained elevation of cortisol, which is linked to various adverse health outcomes. Multiple randomized human trials have demonstrated that Ashwagandha supplementation can significantly reduce morning cortisol levels in chronically stressed individuals, with reductions reported in some studies as high as 32%.
By regulating this heightened stress response and lowering circulating cortisol, Ashwagandha can indirectly reduce the physiological arousal that often manifests as stress-induced palpitations. This calming effect is the primary mechanism through which the herb may benefit those whose palpitations are rooted in anxiety or psychological distress. This modulation also contributes to improvements in self-reported stress and anxiety levels.
Direct Evidence on Heart Rate and Rhythm
While Ashwagandha’s main benefit for palpitations is indirect, its effects on cardiovascular function have been examined in clinical studies. Some research indicates that the herb can improve heart rate variability (HRV), a measure of the variation in time between heartbeats that reflects the balance of the autonomic nervous system. Higher HRV is considered a marker of better cardiovascular health and stress resilience.
In one study involving healthy males, Ashwagandha intake reduced adverse changes in cardiovascular parameters that occur under mental stress, including a reduction in aortic stiffness and blood pressure. These findings suggest a protective effect on the vascular system. However, direct evidence regarding the consistent treatment of pre-existing, non-stress-related palpitations with Ashwagandha is limited.
A significant caution is that Ashwagandha has been reported in rare cases to cause or worsen palpitations. This is sometimes linked to its potential to increase thyroid hormone levels. An overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism) is a known cause of palpitations and a rapid heart rate. This suggests the herb’s effects on the endocrine system can be problematic for some users.
Safety Profile and When to Consult a Doctor
Ashwagandha is generally well-tolerated for short-term use (typically up to three months), but the long-term safety profile is not fully established. Common side effects can include drowsiness, stomach upset, diarrhea, and nausea, particularly at higher dosages. Rare reports have linked the supplement to liver injury.
The herb is contraindicated for several populations due to its bioactive properties. It should be avoided by pregnant women, as some evidence suggests a risk of miscarriage, and by those who are breastfeeding. Individuals with autoimmune conditions, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, should exercise caution because Ashwagandha may stimulate immune system activity.
The supplement can interact with several types of medication, including those for diabetes, high blood pressure, and thyroid conditions, as well as sedatives and immunosuppressants. Anyone experiencing palpitations must first consult a licensed healthcare provider for a thorough medical evaluation. Heart palpitations can be a sign of a serious underlying condition, such as an arrhythmia, and Ashwagandha should never be used as a substitute for professional cardiology care or a proper diagnosis.