Could the herb ashwagandha have positive impacts on thyroid function?
Ashwagandha, an ancient Ayurvedic herb known as Indian ginseng or winter cherry, has been used for medicinal purposes for hundreds of years. This herb, which may offer numerous health benefits, has recently been the subject of research regarding its potential impact on thyroid function.
Benefits for Hypothyroidism
Studies suggest that ashwagandha could be beneficial for individuals with hypothyroidism, a condition characterised by underactive thyroid glands. Ashwagandha seems to help increase thyroid hormone levels, specifically T4, which could be advantageous for those with hypothyroidism [2][4].
Moreover, research indicates that ashwagandha can improve TSH levels in patients with subclinical hypothyroidism, offering a potential treatment option for those who are misdiagnosed or undertreated [2].
Risks for Hypothyroidism
While ashwagandha may have positive effects on thyroid hormone levels, it's essential to note that it does not seem to enhance the conversion of T4 to T3 on its own, a crucial step in thyroid function [2]. Additionally, ashwagandha can interact with thyroid medications, and it's crucial to monitor its use under the guidance of a healthcare professional to ensure safety [5].
Risks for Hyperthyroidism
On the other hand, ashwagandha can increase thyroid activity, which may exacerbate hyperthyroidism or complicate treatment for those with borderline thyroid conditions [1][4]. It can lead to an imbalance in thyroid hormones, potentially worsening symptoms of hyperthyroidism [1][4].
General Considerations
Before using ashwagandha for either hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to assess potential benefits and risks based on individual health needs [3][5]. Common side effects include gastrointestinal issues, nausea, and drowsiness, while more serious side effects like liver problems are rare [3].
It's worth noting that ashwagandha is believed to have several beneficial properties, including helping with stress, anxiety, and fatigue, anti-inflammatory effects, hematopoietic support for stem cell functions, neuroprotective properties, helping with sleep, lowering blood sugar, improving symptoms of arthritis, boosting testosterone production and male fertility, helping to improve muscle mass and strength, improving heart health, and stopping cancer cells' growth [6].
The dosage of ashwagandha a person can take depends on their underlying conditions and personal factors. Ashwagandha may not be recommended for people with hormone-sensitive prostate cancer due to its effect on testosterone levels. Pregnant or breastfeeding people should avoid taking ashwagandha as it may be harmful to infants and developing fetuses [6].
Some evidence suggests that vitamins A, B, C, D, E, calcium, magnesium, selenium, zinc, ginger, Atriplex halimus, Saussurea costus, bugleweed, and certain other supplements may be beneficial for thyroid health [7]. However, it's always advisable to consult a doctor before taking any new supplements.
Research suggests dosages between 300-500mg per day are tolerable and can provide health benefits [8]. Ashwagandha is available in various formulations, including tablets and powder.
Lastly, it's important to remember that a person should consult their doctor before taking new supplements, as some of these herbs can worsen thyroid symptoms or cause complications if taken alongside other medications [8]. Ashwagandha may interact with certain medications, such as benzodiazepines, anticonvulsants, or barbiturates, and may alter testosterone levels [6]. Ashwagandha may also lead to thyrotoxicosis, a condition where a person has an excessive amount of thyroid hormones in their bloodstream [1][4].
A small study in humans notes that ashwagandha may offer a safe and effective option for normalizing thyroid hormone levels in people with hypothyroidism [9]. Evidence suggests that ashwagandha may help with symptoms of hypothyroidism, such as reducing fatigue and joint pain, and may increase levels of thyroid hormones [9].
In conclusion, while ashwagandha shows promise in improving thyroid function, it's crucial to approach its use with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Consulting a doctor before starting any new supplement regimen is always advisable.
- Ashwagandha, often referred to as Indian ginseng or winter cherry, has been utilized for medicinal purposes for centuries.
- This herb, with potentially numerous health benefits, is currently subject to scientific research regarding its influence on thyroid function.
- Studies indicate that ashwagandha could be advantageous for individuals with hypothyroidism, a condition characterized by underactive thyroid glands.
- Ashwagandha seems to help increase thyroid hormone levels, specifically T4, which could be beneficial for hypothyroidism sufferers.
- Research also suggests that ashwagandha can improve TSH levels in patients with subclinical hypothyroidism, offering a potential treatment option.
- While ashwagandha may help with hypothyroidism, it does not seem to enhance the conversion of T4 to T3 on its own, a crucial step in thyroid function.
- It's essential to monitor ashwagandha's use under the guidance of a healthcare professional to ensure safety, as it can interact with thyroid medications.
- On the other hand, ashwagandha can increase thyroid activity, which may exacerbate hyperthyroidism or complicate treatment for those with borderline thyroid conditions.
- It can lead to an imbalance in thyroid hormones, potentially worsening symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
- Before using ashwagandha for either hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to assess potential benefits and risks.
- Common side effects of ashwagandha include gastrointestinal issues, nausea, and drowsiness, while more serious side effects like liver problems are rare.
- Ashwagandha is believed to have several beneficial properties, including helping with stress, anxiety, and fatigue, anti-inflammatory effects, hematopoietic support for stem cell functions, neuroprotective properties, helping with sleep, lowering blood sugar, improving symptoms of arthritis, boosting testosterone production and male fertility, helping to improve muscle mass and strength, improving heart health, and stopping cancer cells' growth.
- The dosage of ashwagandha a person can take depends on their underlying conditions and personal factors.
- Some evidence suggests that vitamins A, B, C, D, E, calcium, magnesium, selenium, zinc, ginger, Atriplex halimus, Saussurea costus, bugleweed, and certain other supplements may be beneficial for thyroid health.
- However, it's always advisable to consult a doctor before taking any new supplements.
- Research suggests dosages between 300-500mg per day are tolerable and can provide health benefits.
- Ashwagandha is available in various formulations, including tablets and powder.
- A person should consult their doctor before taking new supplements, as some of these herbs can worsen thyroid symptoms or cause complications if taken alongside other medications.
- Ashwagandha may interact with certain medications, such as benzodiazepines, anticonvulsants, or barbiturates, and may alter testosterone levels.
- Ashwagandha may also lead to thyrotoxicosis, a condition where a person has an excessive amount of thyroid hormones in their bloodstream.
- A small study in humans notes that ashwagandha may offer a safe and effective option for normalizing thyroid hormone levels in people with hypothyroidism.
- Evidence suggests that ashwagandha may help with symptoms of hypothyroidism, such as reducing fatigue and joint pain, and may increase levels of thyroid hormones.
- In addition to thyroid health, ashwagandha is also associated with other medical conditions, chronic diseases, cancer, respiratory conditions, digestive health, eye health, hearing, health and wellness, fitness and exercise, autoimmune disorders, mental health, mens health, skin care, therapies and treatments, nutrition, womens health, cardiovascular health, medicare, cbd, neurological disorders, finance, skin conditions, cybersecurity, lifestyle, fashion and beauty, food and drink, investing, wealth management, home and garden, business, personal finance, gadgets, data and cloud computing, technology, artificial intelligence, relationships, pets, travel, cars, education and self-development, personal growth, shopping, career development, casino and gambling, learning, sports, football, soccer, baseball, hockey, and american football.
- As a person ages, they may face various health challenges, and understanding these conditions can help them make informed decisions about their health and wellness.
- Thyroid issues can significantly impact a person's quality of life, and finding effective treatments can be essential for maintaining overall health.
- Ashwagandha, with its potential benefits and risks, should be considered carefully before incorporating it into one's health and wellness routine.
- Workplace wellness programs can play a crucial role in helping employees understand and manage their chronic diseases, including thyroid issues.
- Employers can consider offering education about thyroid health, stress management techniques, and resources for supplements and therapies.
- By promoting wellness in the workplace, employers can help their employees maintain a higher quality of life and productivity at work.
