When You Take Too Much Ashwagandha, This Is What Happens

With stress feeling like a part of our everyday lives, it's not surprising that people are looking for ways to help eliminate anxiety. Ashwagandha is an ancient herb that seems to hold promise in this area. It is classified as an adaptogen, which means it is known to help the body cope with physical and emotional stress (via Everyday Health). One reason ashwagandha seems to promote stress relief is because it lowers cortisol levels. Cortisol is a stress hormone that can make you feel anxious if levels of it stay high in your body for too long (via WebMD). 

While there is not much research available on the long-term side effects of ashwagandha, the accepted consensus is that it is safe for most people to take. In root extract form, common dosages range from 450 to 500 milligrams twice per day (via Healthline). However, if you take too much of it, you might end up experiencing some unpleasant side effects.

If you take too much ashwagandha, you might feel nauseous, have an upset stomach, or have a bout of diarrhea. Keep in mind that large doses, such as 6,000 milligrams of root powder or 1,500 milligrams of root extract, can upset the stomach lining, which can lead to discomfort. The good news is that these symptoms usually pass when you discontinue use (via Insider). 

Ashwagandha is not for everyone. Pregnant or lactating women, as well as people diagnosed with lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and other autoimmune diseases should talk with their doctor before supplementing their diet with it. People with diabetes should seek medical council before taking ashwagandha because it can lower blood sugar levels. In addition, individuals taking thyroid medication should consult with a physician before taking the herb as it could affect thyroid levels (via Healthline). Because ashwagandha can irritate your stomach, you might want to ask your doctor if it is right for you if you have stomach ulcers.