Ashwagandha has been used for over 3,000 years in Ayurvedic medicine. That’s not a typo. Three. Thousand. Years.
So when a modern regulatory body throws shade at this time-honoured herb, it's worth pausing and asking: are we really going to throw out centuries of safe use based on one flawed report?
Let’s break it down.
What Is Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an adaptogenic herb revered in Ayurvedic medicine for its ability to build resilience, calm the nervous system, and restore depleted energy. The Sanskrit name translates to “smell of a horse”—a nod to its traditional belief in restoring strength and stamina.
It’s not new. It’s not trendy. It’s deeply rooted in eastern medicine and has been safely used across generations to support body and mind.
What Does Ashwagandha Do?
Ashwagandha’s benefits are wide-reaching—and backed by both ancient practice and modern science:
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Supports a healthy stress response by regulating cortisol
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Improves energy, stamina, and endurance (without the buzz or crash)
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Promotes deeper sleep and mental clarity
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Supports hormonal balance, particularly adrenal and thyroid function
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May reduce inflammation and support immune function
It’s the kind of herb you reach for when your nervous system is frayed, your brain is foggy, and your body feels like it’s running on fumes.
So... What’s With the “Ban” Buzz?
In 2023, Denmark moved to restrict ashwagandha, citing concerns about hormone and reproductive health. That triggered a wave of confusion across Europe and beyond, with regulators scrambling to assess whether the herb was as safe as we all believed.
The issue? The report behind these concerns—commissioned by Denmark’s DTU—is riddled with red flags:
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It wasn’t peer-reviewed
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It doesn’t disclose author credentials, funding sources, or potential conflicts of interest
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It draws on studies using parts of the plant not typically consumed (like leaves or berries instead of root)
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It references low-quality or predatory journal articles
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It contradicts itself, again and again
This is not the gold standard of scientific research. And it stands in stark contrast to the centuries of safe, effective use of ashwagandha root in traditional medicine systems.
Is Ashwagandha Safe?
For the vast majority of people—yes.
Ashwagandha root (the part used in reputable supplements) has been shown to be safe when used appropriately. Side effects are rare and typically mild—like occasional digestive upset or drowsiness. Some people with thyroid conditions or on medications may need guidance, and it’s generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding (like many herbs - and the jury is out on this one).
But painting it as inherently dangerous? That’s simply not true.
Why This Matters
This isn’t just about one herb. It’s about how we respect—and protect—traditional knowledge.
Ashwagandha has supported generations of people across India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and beyond. It’s been used by healers, monks, midwives, and everyday families to restore balance in the body and mind. It’s one of the most studied adaptogens we have.
The sudden fear around it isn’t based on thousands of years of use. It’s based on one deeply flawed, cherry-picked report.
The Bottom Line
Ashwagandha isn’t a fad. It’s not dangerous. And it’s not going anywhere.
It’s a powerful, well-tolerated herb with ancient roots and modern relevance—especially in a world where chronic stress is at the root of so many health issues.
So if you’re wondering, “Should I still take it?”
The answer is simple: If it’s working for you, and you’re using a high-quality, root-based product (like Adapt)—yes.
You don’t need to fear this herb. You just need to understand it.