What is Ashwagandha?
- Leena Pradhan-Nabzdyk, PhD, MBA
- March 6, 2026
- 4 min read
Description
In India, ashwagandha plant roots and berries are used as traditional Ayurvedic medicines. Ashwagandha, also known as the “Indian ginseng,” is used as a tonic to enhance both physical and mental health as well as to treat a variety of specific ailments.
Bioactive Compounds
- Withanolides (steroidal lactones) — the primary active compounds, including Withaferin A, Withanolide A–D, and Withanone
- Alkaloids — such as anaferine, isopelletierine, and somniferine
- Saponins — including sitoindosides VII–X
- Flavonoids — such as quercetin and kaempferol derivatives
- Other compounds — sterols, coumarins (scopoletin), phenolic compounds, and fatty acids like linoleic and oleic acid
Uses
Early research suggests that ashwagandha influences the immune system and aids in reducing swelling from both fluid retention and arthritis. However, it’s not yet obvious what the risks and advantages are for people in practice.
According to one study, a substance containing ashwagandha reduced the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis. Since ashwagandha is frequently combined with other herbs, it is unclear which component provided the effect. Ashwagandha may assist persons with type 2 diabetes and people with high cholesterol lower their blood sugar levels. Ashwagandha may reduce anxiety and tension because of its sedative properties which studies have suggested as much. Preliminary study suggests that it may aid in the treatment of epilepsy and memory loss, but these results are too early to say for sure if it could benefit humans.
According to several laboratory studies on cancer cells, ashwagandha may inhibit cell proliferation. According to research done on animals, ashwagandha may enhance the therapeutic effects of radiation. These are preliminary findings, though. It is unknown if ashwagandha will benefit those who are fighting cancer.
Ashwagandha is used by people to treat a variety of illnesses, including anemia. It has been demonstrated that its high iron content can assist raise hemoglobin levels. There isn’t proof to back up the benefits of ashwagandha for many of the other alleged uses.
Side Effects
All of ashwagandha’s adverse effects are still unknown because it has not been extensively researched. Large doses may result in nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Risks. If you have any medical illnesses, such as cancer, diabetes, thyroid issues, clotting issues, ulcers, lupus, multiple sclerosis, or rheumatoid arthritis, consult your doctor before using ashwagandha. The herb ashwagandha may affect thyroid tests. Ashwagandha should be stopped two weeks before surgery.
Interactions. Before beginning to consume ashwagandha supplements, consult your doctor if you routinely take any medications or supplements. Ashwagandha may interact with sedatives, blood thinners, thyroid supplements, immune-suppressing medications, and medications for anxiety, hypertension, and diabetes. Ashwagandha might also interact with supplements that cause sleepiness, like St. John’s wort, kava, valerian, and others.
Given the risk of miscarriage, pregnant women should not use ashwagandha. Women who are breastfeeding should also not use the herb.
Dosing
There is no standard dose of ashwagandha. Some people use between 1 to 6 grams of the whole herb daily. Others mix 3 grams of ashwagandha powder in warm milk. There are also standardized extracts available. Ask your doctor for advice about forms of ashwagandha and doses.
Sources
Griffin RM. Ashwagandha [Internet]. WebMD. [cited 2022 Oct 30];Available from: https://www.webmd.com/diet/supplement-guide-ashwagandha
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Leena Pradhan-Nabzdyk, PhD, MB
Dr. Leena Pradhan-Nabzdyk is a renowned life scientist with expertise in academia, industry, and entrepreneurship. A Harvard Medical School faculty member since 2005, she has led research on diabetes and cardiovascular diseases while mentoring students and postdocs.
As a sought-after speaker, Dr. Pradhan-Nabzdyk shares her insights at events like Supply Side West and Women in Nutraceuticals (WIN), and has presented Canomiks’ work at top conferences. She is featured in publications such as Nutraceuticals World and Nutrition Industry Executive. Dr. Pradhan-Nabzdyk actively supports the nutraceuticals industry, serving as Co-Chair of the WIN Science Committee, and as a board member for Launch Minnesota and the Jeremiah Program.
She holds a PhD in Pharmacology from Tulane University, an MBA from MIT Sloan, and a BSc from the University of Mumbai. Her leadership continues to influence Canomiks and the wellness industry
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