Ashwagandha Overdose: Warning Signs Your Body Is Telling You to Stop

Many supplement users overlook the serious risks of ashwagandha overdose, even as this herb gains popularity in Western countries. Research shows that proper doses of ashwagandha can substantially reduce anxiety symptoms and lower cortisol levels. However, multiple case reports and systematic reviews have linked liver injury to the commercial use of ashwagandha, often when individuals present with jaundice, fatigue, and elevated liver enzymes, with liver injury typically classified as cholestatic or hepatocellular.

Most people don't realize ashwagandha's side effects until they experience them personally. The medical literature documents a troubling case of kidney toxicity. A 26-year-old woman took very high doses (6000mg per meal) for just one week. She developed severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. This leads us to ask: Can too much ashwagandha harm you? Evidence points to yes. The herb remains safe for most people for up to 3 months. Yet taking too much can trigger upset stomach, diarrhea, and more dangerous complications.

This piece will help you spot warning signs that your body gives when you've taken too much ashwagandha. You'll learn how overdose affects your organs and get proper dosage guidelines to use this supplement safely. This blog answers a number of common questions people have about ashwagandha side effects, overdose, liver damage, safe doses, and who should avoid it.

What is Ashwagandha and Why Is It So Popular?

The ashwagandha plant has become one of the most popular herbal supplements in Western countries in recent years. Botanically known as Withania somnifera, this small evergreen shrub grows mainly in India, the Middle East, and parts of Africa [1]. People call it "Indian ginseng" or "winter cherry." The name "ashwagandha" tells us about its history - it comes from the Sanskrit words "ashwa" (horse) and "gandha" (smell). This refers to the root's distinct smell and the old belief that eating it gives you a horse's strength and energy [2].

Traditional roots in Ayurveda

Ashwagandha is the life-blood of Ayurveda, India's ancient medicinal system that goes back almost 3,000 years [1]. Ayurvedic tradition calls it a "Rasayana" - a special group of remedies that help people live longer, happier, and healthier lives [3]. As a "Sattvic Kapha Rasayana" herb, people have used it as a nerve tonic, rejuvenator, and adaptogen [3].

Ayurvedic healers have prescribed ashwagandha for many conditions through the centuries. The herb has helped children develop, eased rheumatism, treated insomnia, and helped with nervous breakdown [3]. Ancient texts suggest it helps boost fertility, sharpen memory, and strengthen immunity - making it a truly versatile healing plant [3].

Modern uses for stress, sleep, and energy

These days, people value ashwagandha most as an adaptogen - a natural substance that helps your body handle stress better [1]. A Russian scientist first came up with the term "adaptogen" in 1947 to describe substances that help bodies adapt to tough conditions [1].

Studies show ashwagandha can reduce cortisol levels (a stress hormone) by a lot, which might explain why it helps people feel calmer [4]. Research also suggests it can help you sleep better and longer, especially if you have insomnia and take 600mg or more daily for at least eight weeks [4].

Athletes and fitness enthusiasts find that ashwagandha can help build muscle strength when combined with resistance training [5]. Your immune system gets a boost too - one study found that 60mg daily for a month improved natural and adaptive immune responses [5].

Research points to even more benefits from ashwagandha:

• It helps thyroid function in hypothyroidism [1]

• Your hair might grow better, especially when stress causes hair loss [1]

• Memory and focus improve after 90 days in stressed-out adults [5]

Common forms and dosages

You can find ashwagandha supplements in several forms based on your priorities:

Capsules lead the market with nearly 48% market share in 2023 [6]. They give you exact doses and hide the herb's strong taste. Powder forms (growing at 9.1% through 2030) let you mix the herb into smoothies, yogurt, or food [6]. You'll also find tablets, liquid extracts, tinctures, and flavored gummies [4].

Most studies show that taking 250-500mg daily for at least a month gives you benefits [5]. Different conditions need different amounts: men seeking better sexual health take 300mg twice daily [5], people wanting better sleep and less anxiety use 600mg daily for eight weeks [5], and those building muscle strength take 500mg daily with resistance training [5].

Withanolides, the supplement's active ingredients, determine how strong it is [7]. That's why you should look at both the total amount and the standardized withanolide content when choosing a product [7].

What Are the Signs of an Ashwagandha Overdose?

If you're wondering what happens when someone takes too much ashwagandha, the symptoms listed below are based on real clinical case reports and expert-reviewed studies.

"Large doses of ashwagandha [more than 6,000 mg of root powder or 1500 mg of root extract] can cause irritation of the membranes inside the stomach," — Khara Jefferson

You need to spot the warning signs of an ashwagandha overdose to prevent serious health issues. Normal doses rarely cause side effects, but taking too much of this popular adaptogen can show various concerning symptoms you shouldn't ignore.

Digestive issues: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea

Gastrointestinal distress remains the most common sign of taking too much ashwagandha. Large doses often upset your stomach and cause diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting because they irritate the intestinal mucosa directly [3]. Clinical studies show participants who took ashwagandha experienced lower abdominal discomfort and loose stools [8]. These digestive problems usually start right after taking the supplement and range from mild to severe, depending on the dosage.

Fatigue and drowsiness

The irony is that while people take ashwagandha for energy, excessive amounts can cause extreme fatigue. Drowsiness tops the list of reported side effects [8], and some users feel completely exhausted. This might help if you're taking it to sleep better, but it can disrupt your daily routine unexpectedly. If you're just starting with ashwagandha, take it slow until you know how it affects your energy levels.

Mood changes and irritability

The physical symptoms aren't all - taking too much ashwagandha can change your mood noticeably. Users report feeling moody or emotionally "cut" off [9], plus other psychological effects. High doses might make you feel giddy, cause hallucinations, make you hyperactive, or give you vertigo in rare cases [8]. These changes often creep up slowly, making it hard to connect them to the supplement.

Unexplained weight loss or gain

Your body weight might change unexpectedly, which could signal problems with ashwagandha use. Some people gain weight as a side effect [8]. You might lose weight without explanation if your liver gets damaged. A study published a case of a 62-year-old woman who lost weight after taking 1,950 mg daily for two months [10].

Jaundice or yellowing of the skin

Liver-related symptoms are the most serious red flags. Doctors have reported cases of liver injury in patients taking commercial ashwagandha products recently [3]. Symptoms typically start 2-12 weeks after beginning supplementation. Watch for jaundice (yellow skin), severe itching (pruritus), and dark urine [2]. A peer-reviewed case report documented a healthy 22-year-old woman who developed severe pruritus, jaundice, and elevated liver enzymes just 30 hours after taking the supplement [2]. Another case showed a man suffered acute liver injury after taking 500mg doses for over a year [9].

Hair thinning or balding in men

Men worried about hair loss should know that ashwagandha might cause hair thinning or balding in rare cases. This happens because it can affect hormone levels, especially testosterone. Men with hormone-sensitive conditions need to be extra careful with ashwagandha supplements [11].

Stop taking ashwagandha right away if you notice any of these symptoms. Most side effects go away completely after you stop the supplement, though liver problems might take 1-9 months to get back to normal [12]. See a doctor quickly if you develop severe symptoms, especially jaundice or ongoing digestive problems, to prevent complications.

How Ashwagandha Affects Your Organs

Many people call ashwagandha a miracle herb, but taking too much can seriously damage vital organs. Anyone who wants to add this supplement to their wellness routine needs to know these effects.

Liver damage and hepatotoxicity

Your liver takes the biggest hit from an ashwagandha overdose. A study published recently shows over 70 cases linking these supplements to liver problems. The damage ranges from mild enzyme increases to severe jaundice and acute liver failure that needs transplantation [13]. The National Institutes of Health gives ashwagandha a "liver toxicity grade B" rating, which shows it likely causes visible liver injury [13].

Liver issues usually show up between 2 to 12 weeks after starting the supplement [6]. A striking example involves a 22-year-old man who developed worsening jaundice, itching, and tiredness just a month after taking ashwagandha for two weeks [14]. His total bilirubin levels reached a dangerous 28.3 mg/dL [14].

People with existing liver conditions face even bigger risks. Most severe cases - including liver failure and death - happened to patients who already had liver problems [6].

Kidney stress and acute injury

The kidney story differs from the liver's. Regular doses might actually help protect kidney function [5]. A study with rats showed that ashwagandha at 500 mg/kg helped reverse kidney damage under microscopic examination [5].

High doses tell a different story. Medical reports show kidney stress through higher creatinine levels and acute kidney injury. These problems can lead to unbalanced electrolytes and other complications without treatment. It is vital to know who should and should not take ashwagandha, especially for those searching for natural therapies while managing thyroid, liver, or hormone disease conditions.

Thyroid hormone disruption

Ashwagandha's impact on thyroid function might be its most complex effect. People with hypothyroidism might see benefits - an 8-week study found that 600 mg daily boosted T3 and T4 levels by 41.5% and 19.6% [4].

This same effect creates dangers for people with hyperthyroidism. A 73-year-old woman developed thyrotoxicosis after taking ashwagandha for two years to treat hypothyroidism [1]. She got better only after stopping the supplement [1].

The science behind this is clear - Ashwagandha appears to stimulate the thyroid gland to increase production and release of T3 and T4 hormones, which can be beneficial in hypothyroidism but harmful in hyperthyroid individuals [1]. Some commercial ashwagandha supplements contain T3 and T4 levels that are higher than prescription doses for hypothyroidism [1].

Who Should Avoid or Limit Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha's popularity as a natural remedy continues to grow. However, certain groups need to be extremely careful or should completely avoid this supplement based on strong medical evidence.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women

Medical research strictly warns against using ashwagandha during pregnancy. Studies clearly show that it may cause miscarriage, particularly at higher doses [15]. Nursing mothers should also stay away from ashwagandha because research lacks reliable safety data during breastfeeding [16].

People with thyroid disorders

You should be careful with ashwagandha if you have thyroid conditions. The supplement could worsen hyperthyroidism by triggering more thyroid hormone production [4]. Research shows that we observed that ashwagandha makes the thyroid gland combine and release thyroxine [1]. This can lead to thyrotoxicosis and cause symptoms from palpitations to serious cardiac arrhythmias [1].

Those with liver or kidney conditions

You must avoid ashwagandha completely if you have liver disease. Several cases link liver damage directly to its use [7]. Patients taking commercial ashwagandha products have reported clinically apparent liver injury [6]. The risks extend to kidney transplant recipients too. A documented case shows transplant rejection connected to ashwagandha use [17].

Men with hormone-sensitive conditions

Ashwagandha can boost testosterone levels. Men who have hormone-sensitive prostate cancer should stay away from this supplement [15]. This hormone-boosting effect makes it risky if you have hormone-dependent conditions [17].

Ashwagandha Overdose Treatment and Prevention

Your liver and possibly your life depend on knowing the right time to stop taking ashwagandha. You should stop taking it immediately if you notice jaundice, ongoing nausea, or any adverse reactions mentioned earlier [18]. The benefits of ashwagandha work better with a gradual reduction rather than sudden stopping to reduce withdrawal effects [3].

When to stop taking it

Stop using ashwagandha if you notice jaundice, persistent digestive problems, or unusual mood changes [18]. The supplement should be stopped at least two weeks before any scheduled surgery because it might interact with anesthesia and other medications [16].

Medical treatments for overdose

There is some evidence on the use of N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) specifically for ashwagandha-induced liver injury; it may be considered in severe cases of drug-induced liver injury (DILI), but more research is needed to confirm its efficacy in this context [9]. Severe cases might need plasmapheresis or temporary hemodialysis. A 26-year-old patient needed dialysis after taking 6000mg per meal for a week [9]. The good news is that Kidney function may recover after stopping ashwagandha in mild cases. Still, severe cases, such as acute injury or transplant rejection, may require dialysis or medical intervention [9].

Safe dosage guidelines

Research points to:

• 250-500mg daily for at least one month [18]

• Maximum duration: 3 months (long-term safety remains unknown) [15]

• The withanolide percentage (1.5%-5%) matters when deciding dosage [19]

How to monitor your body's response

A healthcare professional can help tailor the dose based on your specific needs [19]. Some doctors check cortisol levels through salivary testing and adjust the dose [19]. A balanced diet and proper hydration help during use or withdrawal [3].

Conclusion

Ashwagandha provides great benefits when used correctly, but users must stay cautious. This piece shows how taking too much can cause serious problems - from stomach issues to dangerous liver damage. You should watch for warning signs like constant nausea, jaundice, or unusual tiredness. These symptoms tell you to stop taking it before permanent damage occurs.

Taking this adaptogen in moderation makes all the difference for your wellness routine. Your risk of side effects decreases significantly when you stick to daily doses between 250 and 500mg and don't exceed three months of use. Some people should avoid ashwagandha completely despite its benefits. This includes those with thyroid conditions, liver or kidney problems, and pregnant women.

Your body sends clear signals when something isn't working properly. The best way to prevent ashwagandha toxicity is to stop using it as soon as you notice any problems. Stay informed about natural remedies that could help your health by reading more articles about herbal supplements, their advantages, and risks.

People's growing interest in ashwagandha shows how much we want natural answers to today's health issues. This ancient herb needs modern understanding and respect. Research shows the safest way to tap into ashwagandha's traditional benefits without risking your health. Start with small doses, work with healthcare providers, and pay attention to your body's response. This guide compiles the most current available information for you, from safe dosages to toxicity signs with ashwagandha.

Key Takeaways

Understanding ashwagandha overdose symptoms can prevent serious health complications and help you use this popular adaptogen safely.

• Watch for digestive red flags: Persistent nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea signal potential overdose requiring immediate discontinuation.

• Jaundice demands urgent action: Yellowing skin or eyes indicates liver damage - stop ashwagandha immediately and seek medical care.

• Stick to safe dosing limits: Use 250-500mg daily for a maximum of 3 months; higher doses significantly increase toxicity risk.

• Certain groups must avoid it entirely: Pregnant women, those with thyroid disorders, and people with liver conditions should never use ashwagandha.

• Listen to your body's warnings: Unexplained fatigue, mood changes, or weight fluctuations may indicate your body can't handle the current dosage.

While ashwagandha offers proven benefits for stress and sleep when used properly, your safety depends on recognizing when your body says "stop." Most overdose symptoms resolve completely after discontinuation, but liver damage can take months to heal - making early recognition crucial for preventing permanent harm.

FAQs

These frequently asked questions reflect what many people want to know when considering ashwagandha for stress, sleep, or energy. The answers are based on current medical literature, clinical studies, and toxicology case reports.

Q1. What are the common symptoms of taking too much ashwagandha?

Overdose symptoms include:

• Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea

• Sedation, dizziness, and extreme fatigue

• Abdominal pain (often upper right quadrant)

• Palpitations or increased heart rate

• Liver-related signs such as jaundice, pruritus (itching), and dark urine
  Symptoms can appear within hours to several weeks after high-dose or prolonged use.

Q2. What is the safe daily dose of ashwagandha, and how long can I take it?
Recommended daily doses:

• 250–600 mg of standardized extract

• Duration: up to 8–12 weeks

• Doses that exceed 600 mg/day (especially above 1000 mg/day) significantly increase the potential for negative side effects and should only be taken under the supervision of a physician. Long-term safety beyond 3 months is not well studied.

Q3. What happens if I take 1000 mg of ashwagandha daily?

Some people tolerate 1000 mg/day short-term, but this increases the risk of GI upset, drowsiness, thyroid hormone elevation, and liver or kidney strain—especially in those with pre-existing conditions. Stick to 600 mg/day or less unless supervised by a healthcare provider.

Q4. Can ashwagandha cause liver or kidney damage?

Yes. Multiple case reports link ashwagandha to:

• Liver injury: acute hepatocellular or cholestatic hepatitis with jaundice, itching, and elevated liver enzymes

• Kidney injury: elevated creatinine and acute kidney injury in overdose cases
  Liver damage may take 1–9 months to resolve after stopping ashwagandha.

Q5. Can ashwagandha affect thyroid or blood sugar levels?

Yes:

• It raises T3 and T4, which may benefit hypothyroidism but worsen hyperthyroidism or lead to thyrotoxicosis.

• It lowers blood sugar, which can cause hypoglycemia when combined with antidiabetic medications.

Q6. Can ashwagandha interact with medications like antidepressants or sedatives?

Yes. Ashwagandha may:

• Potentiate the effects of SSRIs, benzodiazepines, and CNS depressants, increasing the risk of sedation, dizziness, and respiratory depression.

Q7. Can I take ashwagandha every day?

Yes, for short durations:

• Safe daily use: up to 8–12 weeks

• Long-term use beyond 3 months is not well-supported by data
  Some healthcare professionals promote cycling to lessen tolerance or side effects (e.g., 2 weeks on, 1 week off).

Q8. What emotional or psychological side effects are associated with ashwagandha?

Some users report:

• Emotional blunting

• Flat affect or decreased motivation
  These may result from ashwagandha’s GABAergic and serotonergic effects, especially at high doses or long-term use [10].

Q9. Is ashwagandha habit-forming or addictive?

It is not chemically addictive. However, some users may develop psychological dependence, especially when using it long-term for stress or insomnia. Sudden discontinuation may cause rebound anxiety or irritability.

Q10. Does ashwagandha thin the blood or increase bleeding risk?

Yes. Ashwagandha may have mild antiplatelet activity, which may increase the risk of bleeding when combined with:

• NSAIDs

• Aspirin

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin)
  Use caution if undergoing surgery or on blood thinners [16].

Q11. Can pregnant or breastfeeding women take ashwagandha?

No.

• Ashwagandha may cause uterine stimulation and miscarriage (abortifacient effects) in animal studies.

• There is insufficient safety data for use during breastfeeding.

Q12. Does ashwagandha cause weight gain or weight loss?

It may:

• Lower cortisol and reduce abdominal fat

• Increase appetite in some users

• Rarely leads to unintentional weight loss in cases of liver or GI toxicity.

Q13. What should I do if I overdose on ashwagandha?

Follow these steps:

• Stop using the supplement right away.

• Call Poison Control or go to the nearest emergency room.

• Bring the supplement bottle or label, note the time and amount ingested, and be prepared to describe your symptoms.

Severe cases may require hospitalization, liver function tests, N-acetylcysteine, or dialysis depending on organ damage.