Practitioners of Ayurveda, a traditional system of medicine originating in India, widely recommend ashwagandha as a treatment for several common diseases and ailments. Nicknamed "Indian ginseng," this important herb has traditionally been used as an adaptogen--a product that enables the body to experience stressful situations with fewer fluctuations in sleep or appetite. No studies have yet evaluated the role that ashwagandha may play in the management of menopause. However, it may theoretically reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression and sleep disturbances during the menopausal years.
Function
According to the health information website Drugs.com, ashwagandha does not exhibit any estrogenic effects on the human body. Unlike other herbal menopause supplements such as black cohosh and red clover, ashwagandha is not intended to stimulate the endocrine system or stabilize hormone balance. Instead, herbalists use ashwagandha to reduce symptoms of menopause-related stress and anxiety. Adaptogen herbs such as ginseng, rhodiola, eleuthero and ashwagandha are believed to minimize the incidence of panic attacks, insomnia and mood swings during all stages of life. Because these responses are extremely common in women entering menopause, herbalists theorize that ashwagandha can minimize these stress-related discomforts.
Benefits
Although no studies have specifically investigated ashwagandha's effects on menopause, some trials may provide insight regarding its potential benefits for menopausal women. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine evaluated the efficacy of six botanical medicines for the treatment of menopause-related complications. Of the products reviewed, the panel found that the strongest evidence supported the use of ginseng for reducing mood swings and sleep disturbances in menopausal women. Because ashwagandha's effects on the human body are similar to ginseng, it would be likely to produce similar benefits. Additionally, renowned naturopath Ray Sahelian notes ashwagandha's long-standing history as an aphrodisiac. It may help to improve libido in women during and after menopause.
Theories
Ashwagandha is the subject of ongoing study. It may offer several benefits to post-menopausal women beyond the immediate relief of menopause complications. According to Drugs.com, ashwagandha may help to relieve inflammation. This may indicate its potential use as a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, a common occurrence in middle-aged women. Additionally, Dr. Ray Sahelian notes that ashwagandha can improve immune function, cholesterol levels and blood sugar. Some studies have also indicated that it can improve memory and cognitive function. This effect can be particularly beneficial during menopause.
Types
Supplements containing ashwagandha are widely available and inexpensive. Some manufacturers may include ashwagandha in supplements designed to minimize negative effects associated with menopause. Others include it in herbal complexes containing other adaptogens such as rhodiola and eleuthero. Like many other Ayurvedic supplements, ashwagandha is sold under several names, including winter cherry, withania, asgand and Indian ginseng. Seek brands that offer third-party testing to verify the purity and potency of their products. Because ashwagandha is a natural product, levels of its active constituent compounds may vary widely.
Warning
In general, ashwagandha is well tolerated. However, it may be associated with some risks. Drugs.com says ashwaganda has no known drug interactions, but Ray Sahelian notes that it could theoretically interact with thyroid medications such as Synthroid. One case report from Holland indicates that a person developed hyperthyroidism after taking extremely large doses of ashwagandha for an extended period. Women with pre-existing thyroid disease should take ashwagandha only under the supervision of a licensed practitioner.
