Can You Overdose On Ashwagandha?

Recently, the native Indian herb and adaptogen ashwagandha has gained popularity for its beneficial effects on the mind and body.

Studies show it may reduce stress, improve sleep, enhance athletic performance, balance blood sugar levels, boost the immune system, and more.

However, taking too much of a good thing may pose some health risks. This article covers whether it is possible to overdose on ashwagandha and how to take ashwagandha safely.

Understanding The Benefits And Risks Of Ashwagandha

Native to India, ashwagandha has served medicinal purposes for centuries. Today it is most commonly marketed and used as a stress reliever, but it has a range of additional health benefits, including:

• Reduced cortisol levels: One study showed that long-term consumption of ashwagandha root extract lowered cortisol levels in its subjects. (Source)
• Enhanced athletic performance: A review of five studies found that taking ashwagandha root extract improved VO2 max (maximum oxygen consumption) in participants, a great indicator of cardiovascular fitness. Another study found that 600 mg of ashwagandha root might increase muscle strength. (Source)(Source)
• Lower blood sugar levels and blood pressure levels: Some research, like this review of 24 studies, suggests that ashwagandha may lower blood sugar levels and reduce blood pressure in people with high blood pressure levels. (Source) 
• Improved sleep: One study found that participants who took 600 mg of ashwagandha root extract over three months experienced improved sleep quality and increased mental alertness after waking up. (Source) 

You can meet your ashwagandha needs by drinking ashwagandha tea or taking ashwagandha root extract in powder or capsule form.

While dosage recommendations may vary, research shows that ashwagandha is safest and best tolerated in doses up to 600 mg. Research also indicates that ashwagandha might need to be taken for several months before its benefits are felt.

Ashwagandha may offer various potential health benefits, but it is not without its risks. Taking too much ashwagandha can cause a range of side effects and health complications, which we will get into in the next section.

Overdosing On Ashwagandha: Can You Take Too Much Of Ashwagandha?

In short, it might be possible to overdose on ashwagandha. However, determining exactly how much ashwagandha per day is too much is difficult. This is because the majority of research done on ashwagandha has used moderate doses of the root extract. Therefore, the effects of taking ashwagandha in excess are relatively unexplored.

Due to this, most of the negative effects of overconsuming ashwagandha roots are based on anecdotal evidence or small, isolated studies. Reported negative side effects of taking too much ashwagandha include upset stomach, diarrhea, and vomiting. It may cause hallucinogenic side effects for some people. In rare cases, liver problems may occur, resulting in liver failure. (Source)

Moreover, ashwagandha root extract poses health risks for certain individuals, including:

• Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Those who have thyroid conditions or autoimmune disorders
• Those who take blood pressure medication
• Those who have liver conditions
• Those who take benzodiazepines, anticonvulsants, or barbiturates

Some research suggests that ashwagandha may cause miscarriage in pregnant women. (Source) 

Moreover, taking ashwagandha might increase thyroid hormone levels and stimulate the immune system. While increased thyroid hormone levels can help symptoms of hypothyroidism, it can also exacerbate symptoms of hyperthyroidism.

An overactive immune system can also worsen symptoms of certain autoimmune disorders such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.

Because of this, it is best to consult a healthcare provider before trying ashwagandha if you have a thyroid or autoimmune condition.

The Impact Of Ashwagandha On Blood Sugar Levels

Ashwagandha might lower blood sugar and blood pressure levels.

For example, a review of 24 studies found that ashwagandha was effective in lowering both blood sugar levels and blood pressure levels in trial subjects. (Source) 

While balanced blood pressure levels are important for overall health, taking ashwagandha may lower blood pressure and blood sugar to dangerous levels in some individuals. This can lead to dizziness, chest pain, and other complications. The same can occur in people who take high blood pressure medication. (Source)

If you have lower blood pressure or take blood pressure medications, it is best to consult a healthcare professional before adding ashwagandha to your diet.

Can You Overdose On Ashwagandha Gummies?

Just like ashwagandha powder or capsules, it is technically possible to overdose on ashwagandha gummies.

However, capsules and powder tend to have a higher bioavailability than gummies do. This means you would probably have to take an exorbitant amount of ashwagandha gummies to actually overdose.

The side effects of eating too many ashwagandha gummies would be similar to the effects of overconsuming ashwagandha tea, capsules, or powder. You may experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or feel faint.

Likewise, the precautions for taking ashwagandha, in general, apply to ashwagandha gummies.

People who are pregnant, breastfeeding, have overactive immune systems or thyroid conditions, or who take medications should consult a health professional before trying the supplement.

Using Ashwagandha Safely And Recognizing Overdose Signs

While ashwagandha has its potential side effects, research shows that it is safe and well-tolerated when taken in doses of 200 to 600 mg.

You should only take ashwagandha within its recommended limits or as directed by a healthcare professional.

Since the herb can stimulate the immune system and thyroid hormone levels, people with thyroid or autoimmune conditions should avoid taking ashwagandha.

Likewise, if you experience any side effects, you should stop use immediately and contact your healthcare provider. 

While there are plenty of ashwagandha supplement choices on the market, the best way to get ashwagandha is through a greens supplement powder.

Greens powder can help you to meet your ashwagandha needs while providing a surplus of other health benefits.

Try Supergreen Tonik, our greens powder that contains a clinically-backed dose of ashwagandha (500 mg) alongside a blend of 38 plant-based superfoods for better energy, immunity, focus, and overall health.

Kelly McGeehan, MSc

Kelly McGeehan is a freelance health and wellness writer based in Oahu, Hawaii. She’s a proud former Owl, graduating with her Master’s degree in English from Temple University. She is also a competitive runner with 15 years of mileage under her spikes. Kelly combines her background in healthcare, wellness, and fitness with her writing background to create content for various health-related businesses.

She brings a passion for holistic health to the keyboard and writes to inspire others to live happier, healthier lives. In her free time, you’ll find her reading on the beach or training for her next half marathon.