AskDocDoc
/
/
/
does ashwagandha cause constipation
FREE!Ask Doctors — 24/7
Connect with Doctors 24/7. Ask anything, get expert help today.
500 doctors ONLINE
#1 Medical Platform
Ask question for free
00H : 28M : 54S
background image
Click Here
background image
Digestive Health
Question #24335
45 days ago
95

does ashwagandha cause constipation - #24335

Siddharth

I am really confused about something and I hope someone can help me figure it out. A few weeks ago, I started taking ashwagandha to help with stress and sleep issues, and I expected it to, you know, help me relax. But ever since I started, I’ve been dealing with this really frustrating problem — constipation. It’s like my digestive system just slowed down or something. I don’t know if it’s the ashwagandha or something else entirely. I tried to eat more fiber and drink water, but it hasn’t made a huge difference yet. I’ve read some stuff online saying that ashwagandha can sometimes cause constipation, but then I see others saying it can help with digestion. Only thing is, my system is like all messed up now. I had some blood work done recently, and everything was normal, but this constipation thing is driving me nuts. Can any of you all tell me does ashwagandha cause constipation for some people? And if it does, should I stop taking it, or should I just wait it out? I just want to feel good again!

FREE
Question is closed
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image asteriksCTA image

Doctors' responses

Ashwagandha, while generally considered safe for most people, can indeed have side effects including gastrointestinal issues, and yes, constipation is among them. Although it’s often used for its adaptogenic effects to help with stress and promote relaxation, your reaction might be a bit unique due to how individuals respond differently to supplements. The slowed digestive transit you’re experiencing could potentially be linked to ashwagandha, particularly if its onset was around when you began taking it. Your proactive steps to increase fiber intake and water are generally the right approach for managing constipation. However, if those adjustments haven’t led to improvements, it might be worth considering a few things. First, try to reduce your ashwagandha dosage or take a short break from it to see if your symptoms start to resolve. Often, identifying the source of the problem involves a bit of trial and error. Second, consider other aspects of your lifestyle, such as diet changes, stress, medications, or even changes in physical activity levels that might contribute to bowel irregularity. Additionally, it might be worthwhile discussing this with a healthcare provider who can offer tailored advice considering your specific health context. If constipation persists despite discontinuing ashwagandha, professional insight is vital to ensure there’s no underlying condition in play. Also, remember that some symptoms could resolve in time as your body adjusts, but never hesitate to seek out guidance if you’re unsure or the issue becomes disruptive.

18646 answered questions
91% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously

Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.

About our doctors

Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions