Ashwagandha for anxiety is a herb commonly recommended for anxiety among other uses. It is considered an adaptogen and among a list of other herbs and supplements that many people benefit from when experiencing anxiety.
The truth is Ashwagandha, like many other herbs, may have unwanted side effects. And it is important to know the full picture of what it can and can’t do before blindly taking it.
Most articles and product reviews seem to sell this herb as a positive anti-anxiety solution, however, this post will examine some of the negative side effects that may arise from blindly using this herb in hopes that whoever reads this can do their own due diligence in deciding whether to take it, or even stop taking it if they have experienced some of these side effects.
The main issue with taking Ashwagandha for anxiety
Ashwagandha itself has been used for centuries for treating many types of ailments. In modern day use it is particularly helpful for treating thyroid disorders. There are 2 primary thyroid disorders that Ashwagandha may interact with, either positively or negatively.
As described by this article, Hyperthyroidism is an overactive thyroid (when it produces too much thyroid hormone). Hypothyroidism is an underactive thyroid (when it does not produce enough). Hypothyroidism is more common than hyperthyroidism. Although the two conditions have different signs and symptoms, sometimes they overlap
Ashwagandha for Hypothyroidism
According to healthline.com and other articles, ashwagandha for hypothyroidism may be helpful. There are plenty of articles you can look up to learn more.
Ashwagandha for Hyperthyroidism
When it comes to taking ashwagandha for anxiety and hyperthyroidism, this is where problems may occur. There quite a few posts and threads related to unwanted side effects when taking ashwagandha for anxiety.
Negative side effects
For example here are some reddit posts of people having experienced unwanted side effects.
And plenty more. It may increase or even cause hyperthyroidism in some cases.
Do your own due diligence
Best thing to do before taking any kind of supplement is to do your own due diligence and research. Everyone is different and everyone will react differently to the same herb or supplement. There are plenty of other supplements that may help with your anxiety as well as shown here. When trying out different supplements it is advised to take only 1 at a time consistently for weeks or even finish the supply and then reflect back to see if you felt any better. It may also be a good idea to keep a written account of how you felt throughout the day.
Are supplements or Ashwagandha for anxiety the best thing to take?
Supplements can be good for anxiety but the best thing is to start bringing balance and restoration to your body by following the 5 fundamentals laid out here. This will be a slow journey but one that will prepare you for long term balance, restoration, and anxiety free living. There are no magical herbs or supplements that will do the trick. Once you have finally had these 5 habits integrated in your lifestyle you can then rest assured you have “true anxiety”. And true anxiety is the easiest to beat because you know there is nothing with with you and it is all in your head.
Most of the anxiety a lot of people feel may be due to an underlying issue or vitamin deficiency. By addressing the deficiency properly, the anxiety felt will be reduced by a large percentage or in some cases even completely. I can certainly say for myself I have never felt better after sticking to the 5 fundamentals laid out in this website.
