Ashwagandha is generally considered possibly safe for most people when taken orally for up to about 3 months, but its long-term safety is not well established. Some people may experience side effects such as stomach upset, diarrhea, vomiting, headaches, dizziness, skin rashes, and drowsiness. Moreover, there are concerns about liver damage in certain individuals, including some cases of acute liver injury linked to ashwagandha use, particularly in people with pre-existing liver disease. Certain groups should avoid using ashwagandha due to safety concerns: children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, people with liver disease, autoimmune conditions, or thyroid disorders should exercise caution or avoid it altogether. Ashwagandha may also interact with medications like antidiabetics, antihypertensives, and immunosuppressants. Some regulatory bodies even advise against using ashwagandha supplements due to these potential risks and the lack of definitive safety data. In summary, while ashwagandha might be safe and beneficial for some, it is not risk-free and should be used with medical advice, especially by sensitive groups or those on certain medications.
