Can ashwagandha raise blood pressure
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Can Ashwagandha Raise Blood Pressure?
Introduction to Ashwagandha and Blood Pressure
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a prominent herb in Ayurvedic medicine, known for its adaptogenic properties, which help the body manage stress. Given its widespread use, understanding its effects on blood pressure is crucial, especially for individuals with hypertension or those concerned about cardiovascular health.
Safety of Ashwagandha Root Extract
A comprehensive study evaluated the safety of Ashwagandha root extract in healthy adults. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study involved 80 participants who consumed 300 mg of Ashwagandha or a placebo twice daily for eight weeks. The study monitored various vital signs, including systolic and diastolic blood pressure, at the beginning and end of the trial. The results indicated no significant changes or abnormalities in blood pressure among the participants, suggesting that Ashwagandha does not raise blood pressure in healthy individuals.
Ashwagandha and Hypertension Treatment
Another study focused on the effects of Ashwagandha root powder on hypertensive subjects. This experiment involved 51 participants aged 40 to 70 years, divided into two groups. One group consumed 2 grams of Ashwagandha root powder with milk, while the other group took it with water, over three months. The findings revealed a non-significant overall decrease in systolic blood pressure. However, a significant reduction in systolic blood pressure was observed in the group consuming Ashwagandha with milk. Both groups experienced a significant decrease in diastolic blood pressure, indicating that Ashwagandha may help lower blood pressure in hypertensive individuals rather than raise it.
Conclusion
Current research suggests that Ashwagandha does not raise blood pressure in healthy individuals and may even help reduce blood pressure in those with hypertension. The herb appears to be safe for consumption without adverse effects on blood pressure, making it a potentially beneficial supplement for managing stress and supporting cardiovascular health. However, further long-term studies are recommended to confirm these findings and explore varying dosages.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic