The DARK SIDE of Ashwagandha

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Ashwagandha has many health benefits, but does it also come with side effects? Find out about the dark side of ashwagandha.
0:00 Introduction: What is ashwagandha?
0:14 Ashwagandha benefits
0:53 Should I take ashwagandha?
1:39 Side effects of ashwagandha
3:06 Taking ashwagandha
In this video, we’re going to talk about the side effects and benefits of ashwagandha. Ashwagandha is a powerful herb that helps to reduce stress and anxiety. Along with stress management, ashwagandha has numerous potential health benefits, including the following:
•Reduces nervousness
•Helps reduce cortisol
•Increases VO2 max
•Increases testosterone
•Improves sleep
•Improves recovery
•Lowers blood sugar
•Helps improve insulin resistance
However, there are some things to consider before taking ashwagandha. Avoid ashwagandha if you have a hyperthyroid condition like Graves' disease because ashwagandha speeds up the thyroid.
Because it lowers blood pressure, it’s best to avoid ashwagandha if your blood pressure is already on the low side. If you have low cortisol, you won’t want to push it even lower with ashwagandha. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also avoid ashwagandha.
Don't take ashwagandha if you’re sensitive to nightshades or have a genetic problem that causes you to have too much iron. If you take too much ashwagandha for too long, some people describe feeling no emotion or feeling numb.
Most people who experience adverse ashwagandha side effects have taken it for too long and in high doses. Consider keeping your ashwagandha intake at around 600 mg daily, broken into two 300 mg doses. It’s also best to limit your intake to two months at a time.
Dr. Eric Berg DC Bio:
Dr. Berg, age 59, is a chiropractor who specializes in Healthy Ketosis & Intermittent Fasting. He is the author of the best-selling book The Healthy Keto Plan, and is the Director of Dr. Berg Nutritionals. He no longer practices, but focuses on health education through social media.
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Disclaimer:
Dr. Eric Berg received his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic in 1988. His use of “doctor” or “Dr.” in relation to himself solely refers to that degree. Dr. Berg is a licensed chiropractor in Virginia, California, and Louisiana, but he no longer practices chiropractic in any state and does not see patients so he can focus on educating people as a full-time activity, yet he maintains an active license. This video is for general informational purposes only. It should not be used to self-diagnose and it is not a substitute for a medical exam, cure, treatment, diagnosis, prescription, or recommendation. It does not create a doctor-patient relationship between Dr. Berg and you. You should not make any change in your health regimen or diet before first consulting a physician and obtaining a medical exam, diagnosis, and recommendation. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
#keto #ketodiet #weightloss #ketolifestyle
Thanks for watching! I hope this increases your awareness about ashwagandha's benefits and side effects. I’ll see you in the next video.

[@sk4348]

According to Ayurvedic principles, ashwagandha should not be taken for more than 2 months … and this is coming from my dietician who is a trained Ayurvedic doctor. So doctor Berg is right …

[@MarkNOTW]

Why? I’ve been taking 800mg a day for 7-8 years. No problems.

[@user-mb3xy1ff3v]

he said it lowers cortisol.is cortisol high good for weight?

[@DaBigBoo_]

@@MarkNOTW stop

[@jennifermarlow.]

@@MarkNOTW Yes, and millions of people eat the Standard American Diet for many years before they develop serious metabolic issues. Just because nothing bad has happened so far, do you really want to take chances with your health? Against the advice of hundreds of years of experience? All right then.

[@MarkNOTW]

@@DaBigBoo_ ?

[@nerdsageentertainment9323]

So, in other words, “everything in moderation”. Message received!

[@robqwert2696]

I take ashwa like 3-4x a week. Cuz again, everything in moderation

[@shawnsmith424]

Oati

[@daness621]

Not everything. Some things you want To stay away from.

[@Aztecatl7]

"everything after consideration"

[@shanti888]

been taking everyday for over 3 years. No issues. Feel stronger physically and emotionally than ever

[@FutureLegend100]

Wow I'm so happy to hear others getting good results; been taking it 5 years ; but works better in cycles

[@pamelabrown3058]

Me, about 3 I do take if off & on, and will continue to do so 😌 Thank you​@@FutureLegend100

[@michellecoloma369]

Same. I take it every night, I sleep like a baby and wake feeling relaxed

[@smoore8]

Same! It’s kept my testosterone consistently high for a 43 year old, low 800’s. And I’ve been taking in since 2017 with very few breaks at all

[@elliottheunstoppableshow5484]

But you can take pharmaceuticals for years. Funny thing is I don’t experience any of these symptoms either. 🤷🏾‍♂️ Make it make sense.

[@Anamericanhomestead]

Omgosh, started taking this on a friends recommendation after I lost my wife to cancer and it was a lifesaver. That was 5 years ago and I've been taking it ever since. And now yes, I feel sometimes emotionally numb. So I'll be taking a break and see how that goes.

[@FutureLegend100]

I've been taking it for 5 years as well works better in cycles

[@ParallaxView111]

I'm sorry for your loss. I hope you have watched Dr Berg's videos on thiamine (B1). Theanine (extract from green tea) is also fantastic, if you need to switch to something.

[@geraldinemcwilliams5137]

With thyroid cancer I wonder

[@itsrainingcatsanddogs]

Did you start dating after the loss?

[@rockk973]

I lost my wife 1 year ago today. Worst pain I've ever experienced. I've been taking it for about a month, it has helped tremendously, it helped me stop crying all the time. I am sorry for your loss I know the pain.

[@samjoseph420]

I love my Ashwaganda gummies and I only take it periodically when I feel I need it.

[@ReasonablySpeaking9808]

The peoples’ Doctor! He always comes through. ❤

[@annettemoore9083]

So glad I've watched this Dr Berg. I've been taking it.for years at high doses and will now follow your advice. Thank you!!!!

[@mamatried925]

i trust Dr. Bergs science, breaking down the amount and time limits! great analogy! thanks!

[@salmannadeem5247]

Yes, ashwagandha blunts my emotions.

[@TayThornton-vb3mq]

Been taking it consistently for 6 months, maybe have had 2 weeks off during when I was sick. It has eased my anxiety and boosted my cognitive function. I no longer search for words and having conversations with people is much easier and flows more naturally. Yesterday I felt light headed and will be lowering my dose and stopping for a couple of weeks to see how I do!

[@InTeCredo]

A close friend of mine told me it's best to take break after you finish the course of Ashwagandha before resuming another course. This video confirms what he had said all along.

[@grishaterry2954]

The doctors i used to go to had me on 6 diffrent prescriptions. Now i take hair fomula, adrenal stress, and trace minerals. I have not gone back to the doctors for at least 6 years now. Im in excellent shape, eat healthy and exercise a lot. At first i was taking to many of the adrenal stress, but i lowered my intake a little, and have felt like im using a cheat code in life. Stress/anxiety/anger no longer have a home inside me. I trust DR.BERGS science.

[@mahlet77]

What’re those hair formulas and adrenal stress minerals?

[@mindseye4914]

What a strangely worded comment. Cannot make sense of anything you wrote. How does one take "hair formula", "adrenal stress"?

[@Dancky2]

Can you share these adrenal stress and hair formula cheat codes you have?

[@paulabrown5243]

@@mahlet77 Sounds like the supplements Dr. Berg has on his website.

[@monicaclark9581]

I have low thyroid and I have taken ashwaganda periodically through out the years and never felt good while taking it. So I'm not going to recommend it. Same with selenium. I just read some studies where it showed that selenium does reduce t4 and t3 uptake, therefore good to treat HYPER thyroid, but not good for hypothyroidsm

[@janetlombardi2314]

Very good to know. I have taken this for many years. After watching this video, it's time to take a break. Thank you

[@Drberg]

Most welcome!

[@taylorsmall2280]

I’m really enjoying your under ten minute micro topic video times, I get more listening in throughout the day on my brief breaks. Thank you.❤

[@Drberg]

Glad I could assist.

[@winningvictory]

Many thanks to Dr. Berg for this invaluable and educating information!

[@Drberg]

You're welcome!

[@user-rk5df7ke9g]

Traditional rule for herbs: 6 days on, 1 day off…6 weeks on, 1 week off.

[@johnmachter40]

6years on 1 year off?

[@user-rk5df7ke9g]

@@johnmachter40 not needed. But maybe a time comes.

[@mikeg1378]

Yes. I do that for all supplements and vitamins as well. Learned that years ago.

[@abdullahzubairozaini]

6 months on.. 1 month off?

[@DoctorDerp6969]

source: i made it up

[@Miroslaw-rs8ip]

I don’t have any of the health problems mentioned in the video and have been using it for about a year but not all the time, I have found that my strength has significantly improved and I’m sleeping better. Thanks for the video 👍

[@kenethcull]

Thank you for telling us the positive all these lummexes get on here and complain and this does zero 👍 good.

[@hell_inc5853]

How often?

[@lars2894]

Same here. Been on and off for 2 years, helped significantly lower my chronic stress. But then again, I knew not to take it everyday from the get go because I did the due research and found other people had these side effects.

[@Sol-De-Invierno]

@@lars2894 This. You can't take this every day, I did and I got anhedonia, which is the opposite side of anxiety. If you dose and cycle correctly, you will feel a lot calmer tho

[@Drberg]

Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@elizabethkahn5982]

Oh just great. It'd been helping me sleep so nicely

[@Int3x0r]

same here. Chronic negative stress at work for years. Been taking it for 2 weeks and my sleep is back. It's like a miracle. I don't mind the mellow effect. I prefer to be that way compared to being on edge 24/7.

[@sharonhoffer3599]

Interesting comment about feeling numb, no emotions. I’ve been on SAM-e for years now, but that is how I was feeling. I then read about Vitamin B6 and peripheral neuropathy, which I’d been experiencing for about 12 months. Realised that I was taking over 100mg/day of B6 through my SAM-e tablets plus the magnesium and iron supplements I was also taking. Stopped those 3 tablets immediately and I feel so much better! My moods are up, feeling much happier, rather than flat all the time. Definitely too much serotonin!

[@loveinchrist6115]

It helped me alot. Perhaps for others we wre all different.

[@grantcarpenter9722]

Ashweganda makes me EXTREMELY lethargic. I'm pretty chill, unstressed and low-cortisol by nature and it chills me out way too much. My sense is that it's good for high-anxiety people, but bad for low anxiety people.

[@KhaderSheriff]

😂😂

[@tommske]

in any case, a good excuse for being lazy

[@aleon117]

Doesn't make you lazy​@@tommske

[@user-rk5df7ke9g]

That’s funny because it’s not something that “chills” you out. It’s an energy/vitality herb.

[@VROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM]

@@user-rk5df7ke9g He even says in the video that you shouldn't take it if you have low cortisol, because it lowers those levels. Also many people say it helps them sleep and relax better. It can do different things for different people depending on your bodies make up.

[@emilyc4126]

Having been advised, been consuming it for years to get rid of stress. haven't yet been through any problems. It's working fine to me

[@CandyManmusic]

Same

[@jools7234]

Thank you for this additional information. I have benefited from taking Ashwagandha in the ways that you list. One of these was lower BP, I have also been Keto for 4 years. However, in the last few months I had noticed that my diastolic BP was going below 60 about half an hour after eating. This also made me sleepy. I have paused taking Ashwagandha for the last 2 weeks and my diastolic BP is now mid 70s and I don'y feel as sleepy after eating. In future I will take this for 2-3 months and then take a break for 1 month before returning, as others have suggested

[@thuywu2304]

Great content and also great advice. Thanks alot dr Berg ❤

[@Drberg]

You are welcome!

[@terleenm1]

I am a long time user. It is cultivated in India.. No problems Dr. Burg

[@thixuanlevu9694]

❤ Thanks alot dr Berg your information is always useful ❤

[@Drberg]

Happy you found it useful!

[@khanaman7008]

Ohhhh I'm surprised to see the side effects of this herb thank you for the update

[@Drberg]

Glad I could assist.

[@terrydeane6436]

This has really helped with my anxiety and sleep over the last year but now I've started to feel numb so now I only take it maybe once a week

[@mlmallory2780]

I love Ashwagandha and used it for years, unfortunately it caused me to have a upper gi bleed. It took me a bit to realize that it was causing the bleeding. Once I quit taking it the bleeding stopped. Still I'm thankful for it because it helped me through a very stressful time.

[@rhill3453]

Thx 4 sharing Ur experience.

[@-Kahi-]

I had the same experience

[@TechnoViking__]

What are the symptoms of upper Gi bleed?🩸

[@magimac9979]

@@TechnoViking__be interesting to know the symptoms to compare 👍🏼

[@jennifermarlow.]

@@TechnoViking__ If you have black in your feces, that is old blood, and most likely an "upper GI bleed", peptic ulcer , etc., whatever term. Ginger tea is very helpful, and super low carb, both helped me heal mine (caused by NSAID meds).

[@lilyrose4191]

Thank you as always 🙂 It's wonderful to know of a doctor who cares for us! May you be Blessed in every way!

[@Drberg]

Very glad to be of help.

[@jamilaad5387]

We Love you every day more Dr.Berg Thank you for your CARE 🙏🏼👍🥰

[@Drberg]

Thank you so much for your support!

[@hayuhinaira]

Thanks lots dear Dr Berg, this subject answers good questions that I had before, thanks so much.❤🤗

[@hayuhinaira]

BTW, this new renovated room looks awesome Dr Berg, ❤

[@Drberg]

Hey thanks!

[@Drberg]

Not a problem at all.

[@djv21472]

My personal experience dear dr. Burg... I took it more than a year... No side effects.. but have to take it with cow milk... I am from India, I know ashwagandha very well... Love from India dr.burg.. like ur videos.

[@Int3x0r]

Luckily I drink about 600ml of cow milk a day. But why is the combination good? Could you tell more about it?

[@Faisal-qy6fp]

I have started ashwagandha just 26 days ago, I never tried it before. I've raw Ashwagandha powder as it is native to our country. I take just 1 normal tea spoon twice a day. And it's just an amazing experience with this powerful herb. My chronic anxiety & stress have been gone. Sometimes it makes my stomach itchy and burning sensations due to high dosage. Thank you Dr Eric berg for acknowledgement of dosage and taking in cycles. I'll stop it after 20 days, will take break for 2 weeks.

[@TheChickThatRox]

Ash helps wit Hot Flashes from Red Wine. only a single dose in order to sleep. maybe once per week. Have already lower normal blood pressure so this is good info thanks. and am hyper active.

[@maidomaidonaidekka]

Hi Dr. Berg, it is nice to see this video because I have been a bit concerned about promoting ashwagandha... Yes, I have low blood pressure naturally, and I cannot take ashwagandha. I also try not to use any solanaceous plant products (nightshades), because they are naturally toxic. I study insects and I see that naturally in nature... Birds avoid most solanaceous and fabaceous (legumes)--feeding insects. Learning from wild animals is the best way to increase awareness of the natural compound/toxicity, etc. For example, I see most animals do not eat cucurbit skins (zucchini, squash, cucumber, etc.,i.e. Curcurbitaceae). Knowing basic biology and taxonomy also helps a lot to see the characteristics of each animal, plant, and other organism at the family or subfamily level--they tend to share characters. In other words, it is wise to build up knowledge on the basics.

[@Theowlhawk]

Been taking ashwagandha for couple years, i feel its doing me good. Interesting that its good to have a break, didn't know that ......

[@lovetobe6118]

Usually is when it comes to herbs. They are usually more effective than way.

[@sangeethakesavan]

I have started to take ashwaganda daily 250-500 mg for my my anxiety and stress. It works perfectly for me.

[@Drberg]

Awesome. Glad to know it helps you.

[@bala1000mina]

Thank you Dr. Eric for the informative and helpful video about Ashwagandha! God bless and good luck!

[@Drberg]

You're absolutely welcome! Glad to know that you liked this post!

[@annakuta8031]

i've been taking it for years for anxiety and i haven't noticed any issues

[@rickallmightyjones6189]

Same here

[@shanti888]

Same

[@Be_kaws]

Same

[@megmodaff5989]

Same and I'm definitely NOT feeling numb ever

[@darlatobin2240]

Have you ever tried stopping to see if anxiety comes back?

[@joannad2825]

I’m so glad dr Berg discussed the side effects of ash and the importance of not taking it long term. This “natural” supplement is not as harmless as we think. Ashwaganda was recommended to me to help deal with anxiety and other symptoms of perimenopause. I was on a dose of 600mg for 2 years. It did work for a while but then I started having severe side effects. Depression, anxiety, loss of feeling pleasure (that muted feeling that Dr Berg mentions), low blood pressure (I even fainted once) and general lethargy for much of the day. It also wreaked havoc on my digestive system. When you try to come off it, it can take some time as it is stored in your body fat. Please be careful and only use short term if at all.

[@carlavolante]

PQ

[@user-uj3ov9jf9k]

Unfortunately I also have these side effects. What can you do to eliminate these?

[@pamelatimbush3762]

Thanks for informing us. I was considering taking it because I read somewhere a lady was able to get rid of the ridges in her nails and I miss having beautiful nails and I would've loved to have it help with menopause symptoms, and then all the sudden I hear Dr Berg's video here where if you have low blood pressure you shouldn't take it. Then I read your comment where you passed out 😮 😱 bless your heart that had to be scary. So I think I will pass and just search for other ways to help with different issues. I know as we age we get more ridges in our nails but I don't like when they split up to the quick it hurts. And I wish he would do a video about why some people have their blood pressure go low the more pain we're in as not ONE doctor has ever been able to tell me they just look at me like I have 3 heads😢. I did have a gal tell me her thoughts on it at my primary once and I wish she was still there and I could have her write it out. It has went dangerously low once when I was in so much pain and the nurse ran out of there like her tail was on fire and the doctor said how low is it and all the sudden she was beside me and they thought I broke my neck, but I didn't it was pain in my neck/back and I got massive migraines to the point they were afraid I was going to have a stroke 😳😱😭. Thankfully yrs later we finally have those under control! Going through perimenopause and menopause is NOT FUN and I wish more men understood we're not trying to be mean or grouchy etc. our bodies are just not cooperating with us! Sorry for the long post, hope your comment helps others too. I appreciate it and what the dr said I will be passing.

[@joannad2825]

@@user-uj3ov9jf9ki would suggest slowly weaning yourself off of it (if you have been taking it for more than a couple of months). For example - from once per day to every couple days for a couple weeks, and go down from there. Depends on how you are feeling. I improved pretty rapidly once it was all out of my system. Take care.

[@calpal9983]

Good points, thanks.

[@josiebee6339]

Hi Doc, Great info...Would you please research and do a video on using nicotine patches for improved focus, cognition, learning and productivity... ty

[@Paradys8]

Wow! THANK YOU very much!

[@Drberg]

Glad I could assist.

[@stewartlittle4623]

Wow, as soon as i was was considering taking ashwaghanda you drop a video about it

[@Drberg]

Happy you found it useful!

[@thusithaniroshana9479]

Learned one special thing. “The right Foods can cure all non communicable diseases “ Thank you Dr.Berg” 🇱🇰

[@d.tr6176]

Basically it prevents them But kudos if it cures them once they are present.

[@Drberg]

Most welcome!

[@all4onejerzyd.344]

​@@DrbergDR BERG CAN I ADD A CRUCIAL QUESTION EVEN THOUGH I WATCHED THE VIDEO I'M TAKING LEVOTHYROXINE 50 MCG FOR MY THYROID, SO I SHOULDN'T BE TAKING ASHWAGANDHA? I TOOK IT FOR 2 WEEKS BUT IT WAS MIXED WITH VALERIAN ROOT, GABA, AND MELATONIN FOR SLEEP BUT IT DIDN'T HELP. BUT I DO KNOW THERE ARE GOOD BENEFITS FROM ASHWAGANDHA , TAKEN FOR A COUPLE MONTHS ON AND OFF. I JUST DIDN'T KNOW IF I CAN TAKE IT IF I AM ON LEVOTHYROXINE 50 MCG? If you can please get back I appreciate it, be safe peace and blessings ✌🏼🙏🏼.

[@akw0523]

Dr. Berg’s Sleep Aid is awesome!

[@bellathuy127]

Thank you so much Dr.Berg...❤️🌹

[@Drberg]

You're very welcome!

[@ibbysadventures550]

​@Drberg hello sir I see alot of people cycle Ashwagandha +Pine bark extract +l-arginine +l-citrulline +l-carnitine +Panax ginseng+horney goat weed +black ginger, 8 weeks on 2 weeks off. Is that good can you comment in detail please sir. What are your thoughts on Tongat Ali? Many Thanks

[@emergentform1188]

Love it, thanks Dr. B!

[@Drberg]

Anytime.

[@pamelatimbush3762]

Thanks Dr. Berg I have been considering this, but this video has helped me realize it's Not right for me because I have sometimes Very low blood pressure and I would appreciate VERY much if you could do a video as to why some people such as myself the more pain we're in the lower our blood pressure goes instead of rising!!! As I've asked for yrs and not one doctor has ever answered me. Thank you in advance ❤🙏

[@megmodaff5989]

Good question, hope he answers

[@pamelatimbush3762]

@@megmodaff5989 Thank you! Me too because it's become VERY LOW a couple times.

[@Amel-fk8ll]

1:54 It’s not serotonin, it’s GABA. Ashwagandha is GABAergic. It enhances both GABA alpha and GABA beta1 significantly, the reason it’s calming and promotes sleep. The numbing effects have nothing to do with the plant’s “defence molecules”, as too much GABA activity for a prolonged time can have an emotion-numbing effect. Example: GABAergic medications such as benzodiazepines (e.g. alprazolam) and Gabapentinoids (e.g. pregabalin) can have numbing and emotional blunting effects at high doses after prolonged time.

[@iamthefiremanjj]

its actually more from activating the 5ht2a receptor IMO

[@issair-man2449]

that does make sense, this dude's channel is full of lies, i wonder how come he got his license if he doesn't know basics of medicine or and his claims are not backed by any evidence

[@CristyBurgos-et1oi]

Hi Dr Berg! Can you talk about castor oil??? I’ve been hearing so many good things about it. What are the benefits and the downside? Is it safe to take it orally? Laxative for constipation? Also for women who are trying to conceive?? Etc.. Thank you!

[@seancarson1212]

Triggered my autoimmune condition

[@brandonthepinocchioVIBES123321]

I just ordered a bunch of Ashwaganda good timing listening to this

[@Drberg]

Sounds good.

[@LCLand]

@@Drbergwhat sounds good? Not an appropriate response

[@medusaslair]

@@LCLand It was an appropriate response, he is about to start taking Ashwagandha and now he has the information he needs about it - sounds good. Right? Ashwagandha is a great medicine, but you should now how to use it. Right?

[@paulleadbeater480]

​@@LCLandlook at all his other responses and you'll see it's probably AI

[@PattyDalmau]

😮 I will stop taking Ashawanda today, no wonder I feel flat! I’ve been taking Ashawanda and even doubled the dose for over eight months 😣

[@marynehra502]

I have felt great on it,been a serious game changer for me,had anxiety,very low moods bordering on depression & intrusive negative thoughts,I now want to participate in the world instead of hiding away from it,also elevated energy levels & I'm finally tackling thing's that are long overdue,spring cleaning,sorting important paperwork,gardening,i had no enthusiasm to do anything but after listening to Dr Berg I will take a break from it 👍

[@edgarjesus2593]

​@@marynehra502can you tell me what brand you use ? I live in Canada

[@marynehra502]

@edgarjesus2593 I only ever use British Supplements,based in Northern Ireland,they are THE best Supplements there is,read some of their testimonials 🙌

[@BlackGirlLovesAnime6]

@@marynehra502wow that’s good, I’ve been thinking about giving this to my little sister

[@PattyDalmau]

@@edgarjesus2593 I buy on Amazon, sorry I can’t find the bottle but it gets a good review.

[@jujubees711]

I took ashwagandha and how it made me feel more energized but without anxiety. But after taking it a week it started giving me a headache. After I stopped taking it my headaches went away.

[@carlosmuniz4432]

Maybe this why I been having headaches. I will get off see how it helps. How long were you off it till the relief?

[@acid135]

Would love to Hear about Yarshagumba and sheelajit in upcoming videos

[@abudujana13]

Thanks for the video and information, Dr. ERIC BERG DC

[@Drberg]

Happy to help!

[@TheCatnipCinema]

I couldn't take ashwagandha for more than a week. I felt amazing taking it, but after about a week, I suddenly had no positive effect anymore and needed more to feel this effect. So I stopped taking it instead of continuing, and then I had withdrawals. I had existential dread and depression for days. It was horrible. Absolutely NEVER again.

[@ceceprincess4758]

Yep same with anxiety meds

[@TheCatnipCinema]

@@ceceprincess4758 That's terrible.

[@misspeach3755]

I couldn't take it either. My body just didn't like it. When stressed, I sometimes creave a smoothie containing ashwagandha (which is a sign my body knows the benefits), but I could never take more of it.

[@jonnitrea]

Amazing how different we all are, how differently our bodies feel with things! I wish it benefited everyone 😢

[@Amel-fk8ll]

I get mild withdrawals after only days of regular dose. Ashwagandha is GABAergic similar to benzodiazepines but much much less potent compared to benzos. So if you have a sensitive CNS or have a history of taking benzodiazepines be careful and or use small doses and take breaks.

[@jennifermarlow.]

As soon as you said "nightshade", my ears perked up. I am very sensitive to nightshades, and have avoided ashwagandha because of this. A good warning vid, Dr. Berg. Many thank yous!

[@Drberg]

Thank you!

[@srozaardnet5630]

Yes. I learned this the hard way. My Naturopath recommended a tea with ashwagandha to help me lower my cortisol. Immediately after drinking it, my tongue swelled up & my throat tightened. I had to make a fast trip back to his office for assistance. Scary. I avoid nightshade vegetables, but at the time I was unaware that ashwagandha was one.

[@jennifermarlow.]

@@srozaardnet5630 Oh my, that's a true allergic reaction, and must have scared the living daylights out of you. I'm allergic to certain antibiotics, so I know the feeling. Glad you were okay!

[@srozaardnet5630]

Thanks for the kind words. I'm so glad that Dr. Berg is addressing this issue. @@jennifermarlow.

[@SaveOurChildren111]

This was an interesting video. What about drinking the tea? I just purchased ashwagandha tea from Buddha Tea, for stress and anxiety. Is there a limit on how often I can drink the tea? I do not plan to be drinking it every night.

[@ninjafury5374]

Sounds like i should be using this for PMS

[@mwilliams369]

Thank you for this insightful information, Dr Berg 👍🏻❤

[@Drberg]

Glad I could assist.

[@brandonchappell1535]

This is the first video that even mentions the elevated iron issue. When i was taking it, i had a blood test and noticed high iron, an after digging realized anemics take it to raise their iron, and i must have normal iron so when im on ashwaghanda my iron skyrockets, to dangerous levels, but not a single video mentions it !!

[@alstroemeria227again4]

I didn’t know this. I take ashwaghanda from time to time. My iron levels are always a little low. It’s good to know that this helps my iron levels.

[@warriormamma8098]

Interesting. I heard it was good for my older teens issues of anxiety, ADHD & anemia. She has been on about two years. Was so anemic she was also on 65 mg elemental iron daily over a year and then to 3x a week for 6 months and now to be used during her cycle week. After all that she still is on lower end of normal range for all iron related tests. She went off it recently for 2 wks or so to see if needs it anymore and thinks yes. She is 5’6” & 110 lbs. so not likely being stored in much fat. I will discuss with her stopping. She takes 450 mg in AM.

[@brandonchappell1535]

@@warriormamma8098 if your daughters anemic i would get her bloods done before and after making any changes to know for sure. Mine was only discovered in a test for something else. Im obviously not a doctor, that is just my personal experience. I really do like the other effects of ashwaghanda, i personally just cant take it, but then again most ppl are low in iron, especially women, so not a factor.

[@slipperyjoines6629]

with love from Australia...it is 5.55am here as I type. I find it significant that this whole "Plasma" word always gets me when I look at these very very strange skies, that is the sunsets and the sunrises are extremely unnatural to this girl. plasma screens, plasma this plasma that. but too close to the word plastic for comfort. do not be deceived. yesss, Christopher - the cicadas hurt my ears, too but not fully understood as yet. someone on here, understands this better than I.

[@mstevenchapman]

Thanks for the update. I use it in powder form and would put it in my smoothies or whole foods. Luckily my forgetfulness and and lack of consistency had probably saved me from having any of these symptoms. Glad to know not to over due it, and take breaks... Btw is it 2 months on / 2 months off?

[@RedneckHillbilly-ho9md]

I have Hyperthyroidism and I take Ashwagandha every night but I only take small doses like 50 to 100mg. It works great for anxiety.

[@HippocratesHealing]

use bugleweed and rhodiola instead

[@darlatobin2240]

Is it causing your hyperthyroidism???

[@RedneckHillbilly-ho9md]

@@darlatobin2240 No I had it before but it didn't make any worse. I only need a small amount so I believe just don't overdo it.

[@indigoinkboutique8676]

All my life I have been a sound sleeper - I fell asleep quickly and slept through the night - but once I hit menopause that all changed! I was still able to fall asleep quickly but would wake up in the middle of the night with my heart pounding - my doctor recommended Ashwagandha or Rhodiola Rosea. After much research, I choose Ashwagandha. I do not have anxiety or any other symptoms just not able to sleep through the night - I started taking Standard Process Medi Herb Ashwagandha Complex twice a day - it is 95 mg a pill. I have been doing this for about 2 years - I cycle off every 6 months for 10 days. I think because I take such a low dose I am lucky and do not have any side-effects. Thank you for the informative video Dr. Berg - could you please do a video Frozen Shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) especially in menopausal women??!!

[@LAnn-en1vg]

Your symptoms could be from lack of hormone replacement. Talk to a menopause specialist. I take estrogen and testosterone and feel so much better. But you would need progesterone too if you still have a uterus. I do not.

[@SP-hb6vv]

Dr. Berg, thanks so much for all the wonderful info. Was just about to order your Estrogen Balance/DIM, and I see it has ashwagandha. Is that okay to take long-term in your formula?

[@rhill3453]

Another very useful assistive short video. U R A Gem.💎💖💎💖💎💖💎💖💎

[@Drberg]

I'm so glad you liked it!

[@i.mahdihosseini]

00:00 🌿 Ashwagandha has numerous benefits including stress reduction, anxiety relief, cortisol reduction, increased V02 Max, testosterone boost, improved sleep, and aiding in recovery. 01:47 🧠 Long-term and high doses of ashwagandha may lead to emotional numbing, possibly due to excessive serotonin or phytochemicals acting as defense molecules, causing stress adaptation. 02:55 💊 It's advisable to limit ashwagandha intake to around 600mg per day, divided into doses of 300mg, and not exceeding two months continuously to prevent potential adverse effects. 03:48 🤲 Check out Dr. Berg's video on acupressure points for stress relief.

[@nessmanessma7811]

Thanks 😊

[@Cupping17]

Thanks

[@fleursdesiles414]

Thanks

[@vanessapetrea2490]

Thank you! Have a wonderful day!🌞

[@lilyrose4191]

Thank you 🙂

[@jannyrocks1815]

I've taken it to help cope with noisy neighbors and living in a noisy house. Ultimately it's better, if possible, to remove/distance yourself from the stressors/stressful situation, whether it's a relationship, job or something else, nothing will change unless you change it.

[@expo1706]

Did it work?

[@jannyrocks1815]

@@expo1706 I slept better but I'd have to take it constantly to deal with the constant noise, so better to deal with the actual issue that's causing stress.

[@B_healthyy]

This video changed my mind😮

[@medusaslair]

That's weird. Why? Ashwagandha is a great medicine, but as with EVERY medicine you need to know how to take it. People seem to forget that natural medicines can have side effects too, but they don't even come close to how dangerous pharmaceutical drugs are.

[@Duisighingra]

I know exactly that flat feeling..I was using Ashwaganda for menopause systems ... Great to hear this now.. I think I was taking it for too long... Don't need it any more.. Since eating meat, my symptoms are way better.. I'd say they have disappeared.. I saw Elizabeth's brights video on the need for animal fats for hormones, and I followed her advice.. Think that's why I'm symptom free now

[@gangu11]

Thank you for bringing this up. Growing up in India, I knew benefits of Ashawagandha and was happy when rest of the world caught on. But soon I was appalled to see people using and recommending it like there are no drawbacks. Prolonged regular use is not recommended by local people who have been eating this in their diet. It’s a seasonal root that’s used as such.

[@Drberg]

Happy you found it useful!

[@alstroemeria227again4]

I take it from time to time for anxiety. My anxiety was so bad that I was having bad heart palpitations. I take it for a week or two and it gets me back on track.

[@Drberg]

Awesome. Thanks for sharing your experience here.

[@stewartlittle4623]

Did it help your anxiety, and how well did it help your anxiety

[@rhill3453]

Thx 4 sharing Ur experience. 💖

[@woduk]

Try lions mane or resihi mushroom supplement for anxiety

[@alstroemeria227again4]

@@stewartlittle4623 yes. It helped my anxiety. I used NuAdapt from Orthomolecular. Calms me right down.

[@crecialovesyuu]

Hi Dr Berg. Can you talk about glucamannan as well? I saw review about and would like to know more about side effects, safety, contraindications etc

[@lucianasantarossa2848]

love this information. Thanks so much

[@Drberg]

Glad you like it!

[@stardustgirl2904]

It makes my heart race!

[@michellebakeralley5585]

Me too!

[@walterjeworski4618]

The term for emotional numbness is “anhedonic”. An important thing to be aware of when taking adaptogens or even certain minerals (like lithium orotate) over long periods of time. Can also get this side effect from CBD or THC

[@user-sm2jz9uh5n]

you can get it from taking aderall for ADD/ADHD, too.

[@tadiuxx]

I took ashwagandha and i noticed less anxiety.🙏

[@5fmuke535]

Thank you Dr. Berg👑🏆

[@Drberg]

You're very welcome!

[@jeaniebennett40]

Hi Dr Berg Thanku for this vlog iv just started taking Ashwaganda but hadn’t looked into the pros and cons Your wisdom hardwork and studies Always help me and my family heaps and heaps Thanku God Bless you and your family🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽

[@vintagemxer1846]

Thanks so much for letting us know what color your skin is. We were all dying to know.

[@jeaniebennett40]

@@vintagemxer1846 hi I wasn’t trying to make any point I actually have very boring very pale skin -so ugly actually! I just use the prayer hands emoji a lot bc it means in my heart I am praying for the person I sent the message to with all my heart i didn’t realise it would offend anyone I certainly was not trying to make a point about my skin colour I’m quite confused at how my simple encouragement to Dr Berg got a bad response?! I apologise

[@Drberg]

Happy you found it useful!

[@C.N.1]

I used to take Ashwaganda with Rhodiola in the evening, but it made me feel too insouciant. Have a great Monday, everyone! 🙂

[@zippitydoodah5693]

funny 😝

[@wernerdanler2742]

Who cares! 😂😅😂😅😂😅😊😊😊

[@trojan403]

If anything I've learned a new word today, insouciant!

[@slobodanpavlovic3184]

What in the hack is "inscouciant"??? 😅

[@wernerdanler2742]

@slobodanpavlovic3184 Make a dictionary your best friend. 😆 🤣 😂

[@helennethers9777]

Do videos on Fo-Ti, placenta, and other TCM famous herbs

[@randalm7904]

Great info! I've been taking these wrong all this time. How does this work with your Ashwagandha product which is 1500 mg per 3 capsules? How can I split it up to 300mg twice per day?

[@ds5651]

I drink the Yogi brand tea. Game changer for my anxiety. I cup before bed for a couple month did the trick. Now I mix up different tea but if I feel anxiety coming on I know where to go.

[@music.touches.the.soul.]

Can you share the link for the same?

[@katya1103]

Yep same, love this tea and it helps me lift my mood too! Drink it during the day and evening and don’t wanna stop 😂

[@gaitreeferguson3012]

Thank you for this information on the good and bad side. Good to know.

[@Drberg]

Not a problem at all.

[@ranjan_v]

Thank you doctor.

[@Drberg]

Not a problem at all.

[@junestone5896]

Dr. Berg, for the canned Icelandic cod liver, I would like to know how often and how much I should eat it every time ? Should I take the oil in the can too? Thanks!

[@Honest_Mom]

I took it long term before I was pregnant, during my pregnancy, and postpartum. No negative effects.

[@jackd1582]

👼🤪

[@orion9k]

Me too, every day for two years

[@shanti888]

Same

[@kristingoettlicher3503]

Do a similar video on turmeric.

[@CryptoChangingTheWorld]

Great video as always! Thoughts on the ever popular Boron please?

[@Drberg]

Thank you! Please see here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nHymgp2KZ9uajZo

[@hichamboulos1155]

Dear Doctor, I would be grateful if you could create a video about MACA, similar to this video.

[@rienjen]

Hi, how about a video about saffron? It's been known to help with sleep, weight loss, stress, and mental health issues like ADHD and anxiety. It's been shown in clinical trials to be just as effective as an antidepressant. I'm curious of your thoughts. I've tried it and actually, it's too strong for me. I don't know if the dose is too high, but once it builds in my system, I feel a little groggy and out of it--it's calming my CNS too much, I think.

[@austinlittle1638]

I'm just mad about saffron... she's just mad about meeee

[@Indylimburg]

I am a big big fan of ashwagandha. I've been using it almost daily for the past year. I've recommended it to all my family who report having stress or anxiety. I have high cortisol levels, so I use it to bring the cortisol down. I started using it during an extremely stressful course I was in (so stressed I couldn't sleep or eat) and saw immediate improvement. It's been a total game changer. I also have a fairly stressful day to day life. I'm typically taking about 2000 mg per day. The only bad reaction I've had was that I took too much within 24 hours and I felt pretty sick: body aches/fever and had to sleep it off. No other issues. Your mileage may vary. I don't have any issues with nightshade foods.

[@juanitagartley937]

Same here. I have suffered from high cortisol levels. Ashwagandha has done wonders for me. I've been telling everyone in my family. I too take 2100mg. No side effects yet.

[@Indylimburg]

@@juanitagartley937 Same here, I tell all my family to take it because we all have similar stress/cortisol symptoms.

[@NutriherbsUS]

Very good insight on proper intake and the potential cons of taking Ashwagandha. Overall great video!

[@Drberg]

Glad to know that you liked this post!

[@HappyEddyMcGuire]

I'm very serotonin sensitive. Based off of my own body and experience, ashwagandha has been the perfect serotonin balancer. I take a lower dose every night and will take a few days off every month or so. Like I do with most things so my body doesn’t get used to, no different than how addiction works. Peace

[@MarkieB89]

I used to take ashwagandha root heavily and faithfully. Worked great for my stress and anxiety and even gave me an unexpected (but unwanted) boost in my libido. But for whatever reason, it made my scalp break out so bad. I had to stop taking it, unfortunately

[@vikrambansal1375]

I wana have sex all the time lol. Its acting like viagara for me

[@nightcrave]

Ashwagandha is great for you! Everyone should be taken it along with, other adaptogens

[@Paradys8]

Amazing information!👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@Drberg]

Thank you! Happy you found it useful!

[@ryfd5bb730]

What about hyperparathyroidism dr please ? Do i need to avoid ashwaganda in case of hyperparathyroidism ? Thanks