Pregnancy is the most exciting and fulfilling phase of life that is experienced by most women. The rapidly changing fetus structure and its growth rate affect the mother both physically and psychologically. Hence it is crucial to check the mother’s health during pregnancy and offer her excellent health care. To assure holistic care, many women include Ayurvedic supplements in their allopathic follow-up routine. Many expecting mothers express doubts about taking Ashwagandha during pregnancy.
Ashwagandha is one of the prominent Indian Ayurvedic herbs. It has immense medicinal value. It has become a popular supplement due to its health benefits. So can you take Ashwagandha during pregnancy? Let’s find out!
In This Article
- What is Ashwagandha?
- Is Ashwagandha Safe During Pregnancy?
- Nutritional Breakdown
- Are There Any Benefits of Consuming Ashwagandha During Pregnancy?
- Risks of Consuming Ashwagandha During Pregnancy
- How Can I Use Ashwagandha?
What is Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha is an Indian shrub famously known as ‘Indian Winter Cherry’ or ‘Indian Ginseng’. This herb is being used for the last many years, as a natural medicine for various health reasons. Its root is used in the form of powder which smells like a horse and hence it is named Ashwagandha. Due to its increasing popularity, it is easily available in markets.
Is Ashwagandha Safe During Pregnancy?
There is a lot of study and research going on about this medicinal plant and its safety during pregnancy. Researchers have found that there is no toxicity effect on the mother or baby when consumed in a certain moderation. But for women with a thyroid disorder or any other systemic diseases, it is always recommended to use ashwagandha under the proper medical guidance.
Nutritional Breakdown:
100 grams of ashwagandha powder, has the following components:
- Calories: 45 calories
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Sugar : 0 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Potassium: 282 mg
- Calcium: 32 mg
- Iron: 0.31 mg
- Phosphorus: 20 mg
- Niacin: 0.4 mg
Are There Any Benefits of Consuming Ashwagandha During Pregnancy?
- Ashwagandha is known as an Ayurvedic adaptogen, that relieves stress and balances the mood. According to a study, people taking ashwagandha have low morning levels of cortisol. This hormone is released during stress. It disrupts sleep, makes you prone to digestive problems, gives a headache, and can also lead to weight gain. So, ashwagandha helps to soothe these issues.
- Ashwagandha is also believed to increase the vitality and strength of humans.
- According to some studies, it is also said that ashwagandha can play a vital role in cancer prevention.
- A naturally occurring content named withanolides, present in ashwagandha, is known to reduce the inflammation of tissues.
Risks of Consuming Ashwagandha During Pregnancy:
As far as consuming ashwagandha during pregnancy is concerned, it has been studied that its excessive use can induce miscarriage.
Ashwagandha is known to trigger the early onset of menstruation, and hence it is avoided during pregnancy.
However, if there is a doubt regarding anything during pregnancy, it is always advisable to consult your physician first, as the food consumed by the mother will definitely affect the baby and its growth.
How Can I Use Ashwagandha?
- The roots of Ashwagandha are sun-dried, powdered, and processed to be used as a supplement.
- Ashwagandha is mostly preferred at night since it possesses sedative properties.
- It is available in the form of capsules and powder. Since the powder is not palatable they are formulated into capsules. The powder is usually blended with smoothies, milk, or hot water. Or they can just be sprinkled on any food that is recommended.
- Consumption of ashwagandha, especially during pregnancy, is always under medical supervision.
Ashwagandha has proven beneficial for fertility and a lot of research is still being done to learn its effect on pregnancy and baby’s development. however, it surely is a strong competitor for other stress relieving drugs.
