Thyroid disorders affect a significant portion of the global population, with hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism being the most prevalent. These conditions can manifest in various ways, including fatigue, weight fluctuations, hair loss, and mood disturbances. While conventional treatments often involve oral medications, ashwagandha, a potent herb, has gained traction as a complementary approach to managing thyroid symptoms and potentially aiding in weight loss.
What is Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an evergreen shrub native to Asia and Africa, revered in traditional medicine for centuries. It's recognized as an adaptogen, implying it may assist the body in managing stress. Extracts from its root are commonly used in various forms, including tablets, liquids, and powders. Ashwagandha contains chemicals that might help calm the brain, reduce swelling, lower blood pressure, and alter the immune system. People commonly use ashwagandha for anxiety, insomnia, and stress. It is also used for asthma, athletic performance, back pain, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support most of these uses. There is also no good evidence to support using ashwagandha for COVID-19.
Ashwagandha's Potential Benefits for Thyroid Health
Ashwagandha is believed to influence thyroid function through several mechanisms:
- Boosting Thyroid Hormone Levels: Ashwagandha may help increase thyroid hormone levels by reducing cortisol (stress hormone).
- Stimulating the Endocrine System: It is thought to stimulate the endocrine system, thereby improving thyroid hormone levels.
- Reducing Cholesterol Levels: Ashwagandha may help reduce cholesterol levels, which are often elevated in individuals with hypothyroidism.
Ashwagandha and Hypothyroidism
Limited studies suggest that ashwagandha could be a beneficial alternative treatment for hypothyroidism. An eight-week study involving 50 hypothyroid patients demonstrated that a daily 600 mg dose of ashwagandha root extract led to significant improvements in thyroid levels compared to a placebo. The ashwagandha group experienced notable increases of 41.5% in triiodothyronine (T3) and 19.6% in thyroxine (T4) levels. Additionally, their thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels decreased by 17.5%.
Ashwagandha and Hyperthyroidism
Currently, there are no specific studies examining the effects of ashwagandha supplementation on hyperthyroidism. However, it's been suggested that ashwagandha may exacerbate hyperthyroidism symptoms by further increasing T3 and T4 levels, potentially leading to thyrotoxicosis, a severe form of hyperthyroidism. Therefore, individuals with hyperthyroidism should exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional before using ashwagandha.
Read also: Optimize Well-being with Key Supplements
How to Use Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is available in various forms, including:
- Tablets: Typically, one or two pills or capsules taken twice daily with warm water or milk.
- Powder: One-fourth to one-half teaspoon mixed with warm water, milk, or ghee, taken twice daily.
While a balanced diet rich in healthy fats, protein, and fiber is crucial, incorporating herbs and antioxidants can further support hormonal balance. However, it's essential to seek medical advice before taking any herbal supplements, as they may interact with existing medications or treatments.
Ashwagandha for Stress Reduction and Weight Management
Chronic stress can lead to various health issues, including obesity. Ashwagandha, as an adaptogen, is recognized for its stress and anxiety-reducing properties. A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial involving 52 subjects under chronic stress investigated the safety and efficacy of a standardized ashwagandha root extract. Participants received either 300 mg of ashwagandha or a placebo twice daily. The results indicated significant improvements in perceived stress levels, food cravings, happiness, eating behavior, serum cortisol, body weight, and body mass index in the ashwagandha group.
Stress and Eating Behavior
Chronic stress can alter eating behavior, with negative moods exacerbating food intake and reduced physical activity. Increased cortisol production, a hallmark of stress, can also potentiate hunger. Ashwagandha's adaptogenic properties may counteract these negative effects by reducing cortisol levels and promoting a sense of well-being.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
While generally considered safe, ashwagandha can cause side effects in some individuals:
Read also: The Benefits of Ashwagandha and Rhodiola
- Digestive Issues: Large doses may lead to stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting.
- Liver Problems: Rarely, liver issues, including severe liver failure, may occur.
- Interactions: Ashwagandha may interact with medications for anxiety, thyroid disorders, diabetes, high blood pressure, and immune suppression.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: It's likely unsafe to use ashwagandha during pregnancy, as it may cause miscarriages. The safety of ashwagandha during breastfeeding is unknown, so it's best to avoid use.
- Autoimmune Diseases: Ashwagandha might increase immune system activity, potentially worsening symptoms of autoimmune diseases.
- Surgery: Ashwagandha may slow down the central nervous system, potentially interacting with anesthesia and other medications during and after surgery. It's recommended to stop taking ashwagandha at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery.
Ashwagandha Dosage and Supplement Quality
Ashwagandha has been used by adults in doses up to 1000 mg daily for up to 12 weeks. However, it's best to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dose for a specific condition.
Supplement quality is also crucial. Look for products that have been independently verified by an outside company, such as ConsumerLab, United States Pharmacopeia (USP), or NSF International, to ensure they contain what they claim and are free from contaminants.
Ashwagandha vs. Other Herbal Remedies
- Ashwagandha vs. Rhodiola: Both are adaptogens, but rhodiola is known for its stimulating effects, while ashwagandha is more calming.
- Ashwagandha vs. Guggul: Guggul is traditionally used to support thyroid health, particularly in hypothyroidism, by increasing iodine uptake.
- Ashwagandha vs. Bacopa: Bacopa is known for its cognitive enhancement properties and may support thyroid health by promoting antioxidant activity.
Important Considerations
- Consult a Healthcare Professional: Always consult a healthcare provider before taking ashwagandha, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking medications.
- Start with a Low Dose: Begin with a low dose and gradually increase as tolerated.
- Monitor for Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects and discontinue use if they occur.
- Purchase from Reputable Sources: Choose high-quality supplements from reputable brands.
Read also: Using Ashwagandha