The Dutch Ministry of Health advises against taking Ashwagandha, why is that?
We've recently become aware of the announcement from the VWS (Dutch Ministry of Health) concerning ashwagandha. This announcement is part of the Ministry's ongoing effort to reassess its stance on natural supplements, as initiated by a decree established in 2020. In essence, the Ministry's declaration suggests that ashwagandha may not be universally suitable, particularly for those with sensitivities.
However, other media platforms have also picked up the news and this has understandably sparked some concern. In the RIVM’s news article, their message was conveyed in a brief but rather alarming manner. While they did acknowledge the limited research that has been done concerning the harmful effects of the supplement, they also said: "…doctors have reported poisoning in people… In some countries in the past it was used to induce an abortion, among other things." Additionally, they concluded that due to the serious effects it can have, it is advised not to use it.
We could not let this information go unnoticed without taking a further look into the matter.
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Risk Assessment of the VWS
The Ministry's methodology did not involve conducting a new study, instead they collected existing research to inform their decision-making process, with a focus on three specific publications. These publications were conducted by the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) (2013), the Danish National Food Institute (DTU) (2020), and a monograph of medicinal plants by the World Health Organization (WHO) (2009) was also included. It is important to note that out of these studies, only one mentioned their manufacturing methods. It is mentionable since in case the other two studies used supplements containing something other than Withania Somnifera root (ashwagandha), the effects could be confounded.Â
In the extensive report of the VWS, on pages 50 through 54 we can find tables summarizing the results of the studies, including a recollection of adverse effects. The accounts of almost 2000 patients with different conditions are listed. Of them, there were overall 9 single cases reporting adverse effects, however with such large samples, these do not suffice for statistical significance.
In a similar manner, it is not depicted that in all of the observed conditions in these studies, there's no mention of all the positive effects listed, or that many experienced no adverse side effects.
 Some things to be mindful of when it comes to Ashwagandha:
It belongs to the nightshade family along with tomatoes, South American chilies and potatoes, and many can be allergic to this family of herbs/vegetables
It interacts with the thyroid system
It is advised not to use when pregnant or breastfeeding
Overall, the conclusion of the paper is nothing but a call to common sense. In case you have allergies, do thorough research, consult professionals and perhaps with smaller amounts test how your body reacts to it. The same advice applies for thyroid problems. When it comes to pregnancy it is always better to be cautious, even despite the lack of research on the matter, which is due to obvious reasons.
Concluding thoughts:
While acknowledging the concerns highlighted by the VWS regarding potential risks associated with ashwagandha, it's crucial to maintain a balanced perspective. Their approach, suggesting universal concern, might overshadow the wealth of benefits that research has attributed to ashwagandha.
Ashwagandha has demonstrated promising effects in numerous studies, ranging from stress reduction to immune system support and beyond. However, as with any supplement or medication, individual responses vary, and certain populations, such as those with allergies or thyroid issues, may need to exercise caution.
In light of this, it's essential to recognize that while there are valid concerns for specific groups, ashwagandha can still be a valuable addition to many individuals' wellness routines.
Let's strive for a nuanced understanding of ashwagandha's role in health, encouraging further research and fostering dialogue that empowers individuals to make choices aligned with their well-being.
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