Patients with thyroid issues sometimes seek relief from Ashwagandha root; whereby, certain components of the root increase glucose-6-phosphatase function in the liver, thereby increasing thyroid function, according to various holistic practitioners.
From animal studies with mice, researchers at D.A. University in Indore, India suggest that Ashwagandha root extracts have the ability to stimulate thyroid hormones. Basically, the data suggests that Ashwagandha increases serum concentrations of thyroid hormones; thus, one case study states that excessive hormonal effects, or thyrotoxicosis, may be quite a serious side effect of the root.
This may mean that those suffering hypothyroidism will temporarily suffer hyperthyroidism and vice versa. Studies also provide evidence that ceasing supplementation corrects thyrotoxicosis.
While Ashwagandha has not been extensively studied for thyroid health to date, some patients say that short-term use of Ashwagandha, or its periodic use, provides relief from symptoms of hypothyroidism, most notably chronic fatigue and decreased sexual libido. All reports advise caution while supplementing with Ashwagandha, as there is simply not enough scientific evidence to support its continued, chronic use. It is necessary to work closely with a medical practitioner before, during and after a decision to implement Ashwagandha usage for thyroid health.
Other animal studies provide information that Ashwagandha root extracts stimulate the cells of the immune system, decrease swelling and increase brain function, or memory capacity. Historic Indian Ayurvedic medical practitioners often touted Ashwagandha as an adaptogen, i.e. an herbal remedy which defeats the ill effects of stress and boosts overall wellness. Typical dosing remains at 3-6 grams of the dried root per day and may be purchased in capsule, powder, tincture, or tea formats.
Ashwagandha, which means horse's odor in the ancient Indian Sanskrit language, is currently the subject of conflicting evidence for its use in regulating or treating thyroid issues. Nevertheless, Ashwagandha root remains on the cutting edge of new scientific breakthroughs for medical treatments of thyroid and other health issues.
Studies already completed provide evidence that Ashwagandha helps in easing drug withdrawal symptoms and in reducing anxiety and painful arthritis of the knees. Ongoing studies for Ashwagandha use in Tuberculosis, Parkinson's Disease, Bone Cancer, Bipolar Disorder, and Diabetes patients are either currently underway or recently completed.
https://www.naturalnews.com/032025_Ashwagandha_thyroid.html
